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Explore the versatility and natural charm of softwood lumber. Ideal for a wide range of projects—from framing and furniture building to trim, panelling, and crafts—our selection includes premium species like pine, fir, and cedar. Softwoods are known for being easy to work with, making them a favourite among DIYers, woodworkers, and professional builders alike. We carry a variety of grades, dimensions, and specialty cuts, including kiln-dried and appearance-grade lumber. Many of our softwood products are responsibly sourced from Canadian forests and selected for their quality and consistency. Whether you're building something new or repairing what’s already there, Windsor Plywood has the materials and expert advice to help you do it right. Stop by your local store to explore our wide inventory and experience the personalized service that sets us apart. We’re here to help bring your project to life—every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is poplar wood and what is it used for?
Poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera, also called tulipwood or tulip poplar) is a domestic hardwood with a fine, consistent grain, pale greenish-cream colour, and excellent workability. It is widely used for painted furniture, cabinet interiors, drawer boxes, interior millwork, and any painted woodworking application where a consistent, smooth surface is needed at a lower cost than maple or birch.
Why is poplar a popular choice for painted woodworking?
Poplar has a fine, even grain that accepts primer and paint well without the blotching concerns of pine or birch. It machines cleanly, sands smoothly, holds fasteners well, and is harder and more dent-resistant than pine. It is significantly more affordable than maple while delivering comparable painted results. For painted cabinets, furniture frames, and interior boxes, poplar is an industry standard choice.
Is poplar a good choice for stained woodworking?
No. Poplar has an inconsistent natural colour that ranges from pale cream to green, grey, and even purple tones within the same board. These colour variations are unattractive under clear or stained finishes. Poplar is a paint-grade wood. For stained applications, use maple, cherry, walnut, oak, or another species with consistent, attractive colour under clear finishes.
How hard is poplar compared to other hardwoods?
Poplar has a Janka hardness of approximately 540, which is harder than pine and cedar but softer than maple, oak, and walnut. It is comparable to alder and better than pine for dent and scratch resistance in furniture applications. For work surfaces that see heavy daily use, harder species are more appropriate, but for painted furniture and millwork, poplar's hardness is sufficient.
What dimensions of poplar does Windsor Plywood carry?
Windsor Plywood carries poplar hardwood lumber in standard thicknesses and widths for furniture and millwork applications. Specific dimensions and available lengths vary by location. Contact your local Windsor Plywood branch to confirm current poplar stock for your project.