Everything you Need To Know About Poplar Wood

Is poplar wood strong? Let’s find out…

Poplar is a famous workhorse material in a modern woodshop. It is readily available, reasonably affordable, and dimensionally stable.

In addition, the wood is lightweight and easy to operate, making it an excellent utility product. 

So, you can use it for multiple woodworking applications, whether high-end furniture projects or paint-grade cabinetry.

However, despite Poplar’s incredible qualities, woodworkers raise some concerns that takes back to our question, is poplar wood strong?

Poplar wood has a relatively high density, more bending, and comprehensive strength than most lumber types.

In addition, the lumber has considerable rot and insect-resistance qualities.

Thus, it works perfectly for your cabinetry like kitchen cabinets and other interior trim applications.

Generally, Poplar wood is easy to machine, works beautifully with hand tools, and finishes nicely. 

But you will rarely see Poplar tables, chairs, or furniture as woodworkers seldom use it for its appearance.

Nonetheless, Poplar is a reliable woodworking material. So, read this article to learn Everything you Need To Know About Poplar Wood

What Is Poplar Wood?

Poplar is a hardwood from the Tulip Poplar. It has a creamy yellow to light brown heartwood, whereas the sapwood is slightly paler in hue.

However, the two types have no substantial differentiation.

Poplar wood is lightweight and user-friendly, making it perfect for interior furniture work like drawer sides and web frames.

Please note that despite it being relatively weaker than other hardwood, Poplar is a hardwood type.

Hardwood is lumber from a deciduous tree, which loses leaves in winter.

On the other hand, softwoods come from coniferous trees, which do not shed leaves during winter. Hence, they are also called evergreens.

Poplar wood is not an evergreen, qualifying to be in the hardwood category.

Further, hardwoods and softwoods differ because of their seeds. For instance, the former are angiosperms, while the latter are gymnosperms.

Angiosperm seeds are encased in hard shells, and gymnosperms have no seed coverings, making it easy to distinguish the lumber types.

Also, Poplar belongs to the genus Liriodendron and is a deciduous plant.

Thus, its female and male flowers grow on separate plans. Then, the wind pollinates the seeds.

Types of Poplar

We have various Poplar wood types. They include

• Black Poplar (Populus Nigra)

Woodworkers commonly know this lumber as Lombardy Poplar or Mappa burl. And it is native to Western Asia, Europe, and Northern Africa.

In addition, the tree is an ornamental plant in Northern America.

Black Poplar is a medium-sized plant. It grows to 65-100 ft. or 20 to 30 meters tall and has a three to five ft. trunk diameter.

The tree’s sapwood is white to pale yellow, whereas the heartwood is light brown.

Further, the wood has a 460 lbf Janka hardness and 24 lbs dried weight. Thus, it has low stiffness, bending strength, and shock resistance.

Black Poplar has a straight to interlocked or slightly irregular grain, with a fine texture and natural luster.

It is also easy to operate with machines and hand tools. But the material may be fuzzy during cutting, so use sharp cutters.

• Balsam Poplar (Populus Balsamifera)

This Poplar species is lightweight and native to the Northern U.S. and Canada. It is a fast-growing medium-sized deciduous plant.

Balsam Poplar’s height is 80 to 100 ft, and trunk diameter is three to five ft. Further, the wood has a long, straight, cylindrical bole with an open crown.

The sapwood has a light hue, creamy to almost white, while the heartwood features a dark grayish to light brown color.

In addition, the straight grain has a fine texture.

Balsam Poplar scores 300 lbf in Janka hardness, and its dried weight is 23 lbs/ft3. Thus, it has a low density, making screwing and nailing easy.

Moreover, you can use the wood for veneers, plywood, core stock, boxes, crates, excelsior, baskets, drawer bottoms, and decorative lumber species.

• White Poplar (Populus Alba)

White or Silver Poplar is native to Central Asia and Southern to central Europe. Further, the tree grows to 50-80ft tall and has a two to three ft. trunk diameter.

The sapwood is almost white, whereas the heartwood is light brown featuring a white stripe.

White Poplar is a medium-sized soft and lightweight wood type. It has a fine-grain pattern with low natural luster and a medium texture.

In addition, the lumber’s Janka score is 410 lbf, and the dried weight is 28 lbs/ft3.

Since White Poplar is a soft hardwood, it is easy to handle with machines and hand tools. Besides, you’ll effortlessly manipulate it with a wood lathe, saw, or router.

As a result, the wood is perfect for toys, carvings, furniture frames, crates, pallets, ceiling molding, and trim.

• Yellow Poplar (Liriodendron Tulipifera)

This Poplar type originates from the Eastern United States and is also called the American Tulip or the Tulip poplar.

It is relatively stiff, incredibly stable, and lightweight.

Yellow Poplar is a fast-growing, medium-sized deciduous tree. Its height is about 130-160 ft, and its trunk diameter is six to eight ft.

Moreover, the sapwood has a white to a pale yellow hue, whereas the heartwood is light cream to yellowish brown.

The lumber’s Janka hardness is 540 lbf, and its dries weight is 29 lbs/ft3.

Unfortunately, sometimes Yellow Poplar leaves fuzzy edges and surfaces. Hence, please be careful during finishing.

But you can comfortably use it for crates, paper, decorative wood species, pallets, and upholstered furniture frames.

Advantages of Poplar:

Poplar has multiple advantages. They are

• The wood Is Easy to Handle

Poplar’s primary advantage is its excellent workability. Further, it is soft enough and easy to saw, cut, or shape, depending on your project’s requirements.

The wood has a low density without interlocking and irregular grains. In addition, it is lightweight and easy to transport.

Thus, carpenters love Poplar as it saves time and resources.

• It Is Affordable

Hardwood is expensive because it has a slow growth rate and high demand. Therefore, Poplar’s availability makes it cheaper than many hardwoods.

Besides, it is cheaper in the Eastern United States, where it thrives naturally.

• Poplar Is Widely Available

Poplar wood is readily available. It is not in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Wood Species or CITES Appendices.

Disadvantages of Poplar

However, the wood has its drawbacks, such as

• The Surface Is Hard to Stain

Poplar absorbs stains inconsistently and thus does not stain well. In addition, you’ll need a pre-stain wood conditioner to enhance uniform absorption.

Otherwise, you will deliver uneven coverage, leading to a blotchy surface.

• The Lumber Requires Regular Maintenance 

Poplar is vulnerable to rot and insects. As a result, it needs regular care and maintenance.

Although paint and polish are perfect finishing alternatives, they are expensive.

• You Risk Allergies/Toxicity

Poplar poses severe health hazards but causes mild skin, eye, and respiratory irritation.

Moreover, any wood dust is a trigger for asthma patients. Therefore, wear goggles and a face mask when handling the material.

Lastly, let us look at primary Poplar wood applications.

Poplar Wood Applications

Here are the areas you can use poplar wood:

• Furniture and Furniture frame

Thanks to Poplar’s light color, strength, and affordability, you can use it to create various furniture workpieces.

In addition, it boasts incredible workability and wide availability.

• House trim

Poplar is more durable than Pine and has fewer knots. Therefore, it works better for high-end house trim and millwork.

• Plywood

Poplar makes plywood and veneer sheets. Further, it is a versatile product excellent for multiple wooden projects.

Plywood is also cheaper than solid lumber.

• Casework

Woodworkers utilize Poplar wood for large case pieces like an armoire or a chest of drawers.

It keeps the cost and weight of internal components down.

• Paper (Pulpwood)

Poplar wood features a straight grain and low density. Moreover, it comes in handy in the paper industry.

Also, Yellow Poplar is a raw material for fine paper, paperboard, packaging paper, tissue, and newsprint.

How Strong Is Poplar Wood?

Poplar scores 540 lb-ft in Janka hardness. 

This rating is higher than some softwoods. But it is way lower than most hardwoods and some softwoods like Fir and Cedar.

However, Poplar is naturally stable and robust but not as hard as other hardwood types. In addition, it is preferable for furniture frames instead of furniture. 

Further, woodworkers prefer Oak and Pine for a more durable and sturdier project. But we still see furniture from Poplar, which is stable and durable for interior use.

Is Poplar Wood Good for Furniture?

Poplar is excellent for furniture pieces despite being softer than most hardwoods. 

Besides, it has incredible dimensional stability and stands out due to its workability.

Since the material is softer, it is easier to operate with a router, saw, or lather. In addition, you can easily curve it to create different shapes.

However, sharpen your cutting tools properly before working with Poplar. The lumber tears easily with blunt machinery.

Further, use a slow feed speed to avoid tearing. Also, work slowly during drilling and other woodworking tasks to keep the material intact.

Use fine-grit sandpapers starting from 80-grit, 150-grit, 300-grit, and 400-grit for better finishing.

This way, you can be sure of solid poplar wood pieces for exterior and interior usage.

Finally, increase the wood’s dent and scratch resistance by applying good oil-based paint coats.

Is Poplar Wood Strong Enough for Bookshelves?

Poplar is strong enough for bookshelves. The wood also easily gets painted, hidden, or veneered.

Nonetheless, Poplar is the stiffest and most common material for basic shelving.

In addition, it is hardwood and thus harder than White Pine wood. But still relatively softer than yellow Pine.

Poplar wood is easy to paint and affordable, making it ideal for bookshelves. However, finishing the surface with paint or polyurethane is advisable for a durable result.

Also, Poplar plywood is among the best alternatives for bookshelves. It is a high-grade material with excellent strength and resistance.

This lumber curves ideally and is highly recommended to practice your skills.

Is Poplar Wood Good for Outdoor Furniture?

Poplar is perfect for outdoor furniture. 

However, it is advisable to keep it moisture-free and dry. In addition, Poplar woodworks are ideal for exterior applications with proper finishing techniques.

Proper care and maintenance are mandatory for Poplar outdoor furniture as the wood does not naturally resist the elements.

It also decays quickly and may not last long outside.

Further, you can use Poplar for exterior furniture and wood carvings and expect a durable project. Only keep the workpiece in a dry environment.

The wood is sensitive to high moisture levels and is less resistant to harsh environmental conditions.

Unfortunately, Poplar is less durable than other hardwoods used in indoor and outdoor projects.

But you can increase its durability by painting or sealing it with a polyurethane finish.

Pros of using Poplar for outdoor workpieces include

• The wood is more robust than most softwoods.
• It is affordable.
• Poplar has a uniform texture.
• You will enjoy its lightweight nature and high mobility.
• The lumber has high workability.

The cons are

• Poplar is weaker than most hardwoods.
• It dents and scratches easily.
• The material is susceptible to moisture damage.
• Keep the wood in a dry and moisture-free area for longevity.

Generally, woodworkers consider Poplar hardwood with relatively high density and bending strength.

But this lumber type has a lower strength value than most hardwoods.

Finally, Poplar does not form durable heartwood. Thus, please think twice before using it for outdoor furniture workpieces.

Is Poplar Wood Stronger Than Oak?

Poplar wood is not stronger than Oak. Further, Oak wood’s hardness is about twice as stronger.

Poplar swells when wet and is easy to handle. But it dents and scratches easily, 

On the other hand, White Oak is insect and water-resistant, whereas Red Oak lasts longer, is resistant to wear and term, and is aesthetically pleasing.

However, Oakwood is more expensive. So, woodworkers gladly use Poplar as an alternative.

Although White Poplar and Yellow Gold are hardwood, they are among the family’s softest species. 

As a result, they have a 540 pound-feet Janka hardness.

Conversely, the Red Oak features a whopping 1290 pound-feet on the Janka hardness scale.

Should You Paint or Stain Poplar Wood

Poplar’s texture, color, and porosity hinder a successful staining result. It does not hold the stain as you wish.

Typically, the stain soaks unevenly, delivering a dull, blotchy finish.

Therefore, most woodworkers prefer painting Poplar since paint does not penetrate the surface.

Moreover, Poplar is ‘paint-grade’ wood, which is not ideal for staining. But this quality does not mean you cannot stain the lumber.

The above only means that you must be thorough in your staining process.

So, get the correct work environment, use the recommended products and application procedure and adhere to the proper drying and curing times.

How to Paint Poplar Wood

We have five primary steps to painting Poplar wood. Fortunately, they are not as hard as you think.

They include

• Step One: Prepare the Wood

This step looks non-consequential when skipped. But skipping it may render your painting efforts futile.

In addition, it is advisable to prepare Poplar before painting to deliver a professional surface. 

So, clean and sand the surface thoroughly. The exercise removes dirt and stains on the wood and facilitates better primer and paint application.

Sanding Poplar with a heavy-grit paper, say less than 200, scratches the wood and guarantees better formula adherence.

Also, sand in the wood grain’s direction, or you will have unnecessary jagged edges or splintering.

Please note sanding along the grain pattern conceals crosshatched sanding marks beneath the finish.

As a result, you deliver a flawless surface.

Use painter’s tape to prevent paint bleeding, especially when painting different colors in various spots.

Moreover, the accessory is handy when painting a workpiece affixed to the wall.

Cover the flooring or surrounding environment with a drop cloth to prevent accidental spills.

This way, you do not have a tedious clean-up session.

• Step Two: Apply a Primer

The next step is to prime the surface. It prevents the wood tannins from bleeding through the paint.

As a result, you minimize the chances of a blotchy and unprofessional appearance.

Remember, your primer choice significantly influences the painting outcome. Hence, please get the most suitable one for your work.

Generally, we have three primer types: Oil-based, Latex-based, and shellac.

Oil-based Primers are perfect for wood. The oil ingredient conditions unfinished lumber and accommodates oil-based paints.

In addition, the primer prevents moisture penetration.

But while the above is an advantage, it can harm the wood. Wet lumber takes longer to dry, causing streaking.

Remember, water and oil do not mix.

Also, oil-based primers need more time to dry before adding a second coat, at least 24 hours.

On the other hand, Latex-Based Primer does not stick well to Poplar wood. Further, it requires you to use latex paint for a durable outcome.

Although latex primers are water-based, adding water to unfinished wood causes the grain to swell.

We also have Shellac Primers, perfect wood sealants for unfinished lumber. Also, they are fast drying, allowing you to apply a second coat in 30 minutes.

However, consider a longer drying time for a more durable project.

Shellac primers adhere to nearly all surfaces, whether finished or unfinished. And you can cover them with any paint type.

However, the product has a strong smell and very high VOCs. So, always use a respirator and work in a well-ventilated area.

For the application procedure: Use a paintbrush as roller strokes leave ridges after drying, causing cracking.

Also, choose shellac or a sealer when applying oil-based paints and acrylic primers when applying latex paints.

Then, apply thin, even layers and let each coat dry before adding the next.

Finally, please note you need two or three passes to deliver complete and thorough coverage. Thus, be patient.

• Step Three: Apply the Paint Coats

Poplar wood has tiny pores throughout its surface. Thus, it does not need sanding between layers.

However, it is best to sand the wood if you notice rough patches from previous steps.

Choose low sheen paints because Poplar lumber is not pre-finished. Further, matte finishes are the best bet.

Also, get an alkyd or oil-modified paint for this stage. Latex formula bubbles up the topcoat or soaks into the porous Poplar surface.

• Step Four: Apply More Paint Coats

Confirm the topcoat delivers the desired color. Then, add more paint layers if necessary.

In addition, ensure each coat dries thoroughly before adding the next. This way, you prevent peeling and flacking scenarios.

When working in indoor spaces, let the paint layers dry until no smell is left.

• Step Five: Add a Varnish or Lacquer Coat

Lastly, it is time to seal the project.

Varnish and lacquer provide the surface with superior protection against scratches and stains.

Moreover, they enhance the wood’s appearance.

Use a brush instead of a roller. Otherwise, you risk embedding more hair bristles into the porous lumber.

Then, reapply the topcoat every few years to enhance the workpiece’s longevity and appearance.

Finally, painting poplar wood does not have to be a messy, challenging task. Follow the above steps and guarantee an expert outcome.

Here’s How to Paint Wood (Soft or Hardwood):

How to Stain Poplar Wood

Staining Poplar is excellent if you love the wood’s aesthetic appearance. 

Besides, the exercise minimizes moisture absorption and prevents lumber decay. So, you will keep your loving furniture or woodwork intact for exterior purposes.

The needed materials include a pre-stain wood conditioner, 220-grit sandpaper, rags or an old cloth, wood stain, and a paintbrush.

Then follow the application process below:

• Step One: Clean and Sand the Lumber

This step is mandatory in woodworking. It removes dirt and evens the surface to facilitate a flawless outcome.

Further, the exercise helps the wood receive stain uniformly, delivering even coverage.

Take 220-grit paper and sand the surface uniformly. Also, move carefully without missing spots.

Sand along the grain pattern to avoid scratching the surface.

Please note that 220-grit sandpaper is enough to deliver a perfect finish. Besides, higher-grade sandpapers ruin the wood’s natural aesthetic.

In addition, the accessories do not improve the stain’s adhesion. Instead, they cause more harm than good.

Clean the wood with an old cloth or rag after sanding. This way, you remove dust, sawdust, and debris, enhancing better adhesion.

Allow the formula to dry for 24 hours after sanding and cleaning. Then, move to the next step.

• Step Two: Apply Pre-Stain Wood Conditioner

Although this part is optional, it is advisable as it readies the wood for even stain absorption.

Moreover, a pre-stain wood conditioner helps Poplar receive stain uniformly. Thus, you minimize streaks and blotches.

Poplar wood absorbs stain fast, increasing the amount needed to deliver complete coverage. 

So, applying a pre-stain wood conditioner limits the stain absorbed during application.

In addition, the process saves the wood stain since you use less formula to deliver a satisfactory finish.

Give the pre-stain wood conditioner 30 minutes. Then, wipe the excess with a damp cloth.

• Step Three: Apply the Wood Stain

Take the paintbrush and dip it into the formula. Otherwise, the stain will run through the tool’s fibers, resulting in too much stain.

Next, start from the workpiece’s middle and work towards the edges. This way, you will not splash over the formula and run it down on the wood’s sides.

Also, distribute the formula uniformly throughout the surface with even pressure.

Run the brush strokes along the wood grain’s direction. It avoids crossing the grain and the brush strokes, facilitating an even finish.

Next, wipe the excess formula with a cloth after about two minutes to minimize wood staining mistakes.

Remember, Poplar wood has soft and hard spots. Further, the stain quickly penetrates the soft spots while sitting on the hard ones.

Therefore, do not skip wiping the excess formula.

We have multiple wood stain colors to accommodate various project goals. Thus, takes your time to get what matches or compliments the wood.

Lastly, open the door and windows when working indoors to improve air circulation. The wood stain is very potent and can make you sick with a running nose or sore throat.

• Step Four: Allow the Finish to Dry Completely

Give the wood about 24 hours to dry before adding subsequent stain layers.

Moreover, one stain coat is insufficient for Poplar wood due to its high absorbance characteristics.

Applying a second coat to a wet surface may produce a blotchy result. Thus, you may have to sand down and start over the project.

As a result, drying is part and parcel of the staining process.

Here’s How to Stain Poplar Wood:

What Is the Best Stain for Poplar?

Although applying stain to Poplar wood emphasizes its beauty, it is best to get the most suitable product.

Besides, the wood comes in various hues like purple, yellow, and darker ones. So, test each formula on the exact workpiece before applying it to the entire project.

Here are some recommended stain products for Poplar and how they act on the wood.

• Minwax Gel Stain on Poplar

Gel stains are the most suitable for Poplar wood. They do not soak into or penetrate the fibers deeply.

Typically, Poplar does not receive stain well as it soaks unevenly.

But you can avoid this issue by applying a gel stain since it does not need to penetrate the wood pores.

In addition, condition the wood to facilitate even stain penetration.

• Minwax Wood Finish Interior Wood Stain on Poplar – Dark Walnut

This Wood finish is a perfect stain for Poplar workpieces. It is oil-based and thus works well on bare wood.

Moreover, the stain has excellent waterproofing qualities, protecting the project from environmental elements.

You need a minimum of one coat to deliver a nice finish. But the manufacturer recommends three layers to deliver a rich hue.

• Varathane Premium Fast Dry Wood Stain on Poplar – Briarsmoke / Early American / Antique White

This Varathane stain comes in various colors and covers up to 275 square feet. Further, the stain is a high-performance formula with enhanced nano pigment particles.

So, it delivers perfect coverage and still holds well to the surface.

The product accentuates the wood’s natural grain in a single coat. It also seals the lumber’s pores and hardens quickly.

However, stir the formula well before application and wipe off the excess. In addition, follow the wood grain direction during operation to deliver a better finish.

• Walrus Oil

Walrus Oil is a cutting board sealing product used for Poplar cutting boards.

It is VOC-free, food safe, and comes from pure mineral oil, beeswax, coconut oil, and Vitamin E.

The stain seals kitchen bowls, cups, knife handles, and other utensils. It is easy to handle and guarantees a smooth, silky finish.

• Minwax oil-based wood finish on Poplar – Classic Gray

This Minwax product is a classic wood stain that delivers a beautiful gray appearance.

In addition, it is a deep penetrating oil-based formula and enhances the lumber’s natural grain.

The product has a unique chemical compound that dries it faster than other wood stains.

Further, it seals Poplar’s pores by soaking deeply into the wood fibers within five minutes.

Finally, the product application is straightforward and smooth. Only ensure you wipe off excess formula in the grain direction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Some of these questions are:

• Is Poplar Naturally Rot Resistant?

Poplar wood is not naturally rot-resistant. It is highly susceptible to outdoor moisture levels and rots quickly.

Furthermore, water molecules easily penetrate the wood’s fibers, causing internal rotting.

But you can keep poplar wood from rotting through sealing, especially for outdoor projects.

• What are the Outdoor Applications of Poplar Wood?

Poplar wood is perfect for outdoor applications.

However, it is prudent to finish the surface for added longevity. In addition, the uniform texture enhances the furniture’s modern look.

You can use Poplar wood for gardening beds, garden gates, Adirondack patio chairs, and outdoor benches.

It is possible to use this lumber for various applications. Ensure you adhere to recommended finishing and maintenance techniques.

• Is Poplar Strong Enough for Bed?

Poplar wood is strong enough for a bed. Besides, it is the most common lumber type for bed frame making.

The wood features a significant grain and length of around 16 feet, making it suitable for the project.

In addition, assembling the workpieces is straightforward since Poplar is softer than most hardwoods.

The wood is also durable and resistant to shrinkage, making it strong for beds.

• Is Poplar Wood Stronger than Pine?

Generally, Poplar is stronger than Pine wood. The lumber has a 540 lbs Janka hardness score, whereas White Pine features 420 lbf.

However, we have multiple pine types, some stronger than Poplar. For example, Poplar wood is weaker and softer than yellow Pine.

Although Pine wood and Poplar have similar strength quotients, the former dents easily. In addition, Pine is sensitive to fluctuating temperature levels and cracks when dry.

So, Poplar wood is more suitable than Pine wood for interior and exterior furniture. It guarantees more strength and durability.

• What Is Poplar Wood Good For?

Poplar wood is perfect for furniture workpieces, but only for frames hidden by upholstery. You can also use it to make plywood-finished cabinet frames and dressers.

Further, Poplar’s most common modern use is wood pallets, shipping crates, and other utility pieces needing strength and durability.

The wood comes in handy in decorative products.

Certain species like rainbow Poplar have various hues. And they are perfect for wood turners, making plates, bowls, and other artisanal items.

• Is Poplar Easy to Stain?

Unfortunately, Poplar wood is not easy to stain. Besides, you need lots of patience and practice to deliver a successful project.

Also, the lumber does not hold stains well. So, it absorbs stain unevenly, resulting in a blotchy and dull finish.

Poplar is a paint-grade wood, no wonder the disappointing result with stains. Further, it is a closed-grain wood, hindering stain penetration.

Dark Poplar stains better than the lighter versions. For example, white Poplar is softer and cleaner, so it quickly delivers a blotchy stain finish.

• Does Poplar Need Wood Conditioner Before Staining?

Poplar surfaces need a wood conditioner before staining. They do not hold stains well, resulting in a blotchy surface.

Moreover, wood stain does not spread and absorb evenly into the wood. But applying a conditioner helps the surface deliver uniform coverage.

Usually, applying a wood conditioner is not mandatory when staining wood. However, experts recommend the product for Poplar to prevent product failure.

Lastly, a wood conditioner seals the grain and guarantees a smooth workpiece. Therefore, never skip this step if you want professional results.

Conclusion

Poplar is a go-to wood for toys, decorations, plywood, cabinets, and furniture. Besides, its workability compares to Pine, making it perfect for interior designs.

This lumber is budget friendly and accommodates both exterior and interior woodworking applications.

But due to Poplar’s resemblance to softwood, most users question its durability and strength.

So, check out the discussion above on:

Is Poplar Wood Strong?

Poplar wood is strong enough for basic woodwork like cabinetry and furniture. In addition, it is excellently workable and helpful for beginners.

Further, although Poplar is hardwood, it is not a hard lumber type. Also, it has a lesser hardness rating than some softwood species like cedar.

Therefore, confirm that the wood fits your project strength requirements for a successful outcome.