How to Choose the Right Lumber for Missouri Builds: Contractor’s Guide from Hall Brothers Lumber
How to Choose the Right Lumber for Missouri Builds: Contractor’s Guide from Hall Brothers Lumber
When you build in Missouri, you’re working against more than deadlines — you’re up against the weather. From humid summers to freezing winters, lumber behaves differently here than in many other parts of the country. Picking the wrong type or grade can mean swollen framing, cracked trim, or wasted budgets. At Hall Brothers Lumber in Union, MO, we’ve spent decades helping builders, remodelers, and homeowners find materials that stand up to the Midwest’s mood swings. Here’s how to choose lumber that performs, looks great, and lasts.
1 Understand Lumber Types — Softwood vs Hardwood
Softwoods like SPF (Spruce-Pine-Fir) and Southern Yellow Pine are popular for framing because they’re strong yet workable. Hardwoods — oak, maple, birch — shine in trim, flooring, and cabinetry. ➡ When to use which: Framing & Structural Support: Go with SPF or Pine from our lumber yard. Finishing & Millwork: Choose kiln-dried hardwood for durability and a clean finish.
2 Grade Matters More Than You Think
Lumber grade tells you the story of each board — its knots, straightness, and appearance. Missouri’s high humidity exaggerates flaws, so premium grades pay for themselves. Framing: Select Stud or #2 & Better. Exterior Trim & Decking: Opt for #1 grade or premium select boards. When in doubt, ask our yard team — we’ll match grade to purpose, not guesswork.
3 Moisture Content & Kiln Drying
Unseasoned boards shrink and warp once installed. That’s why Hall Brothers sources kiln-dried lumber whenever possible. Keep moisture around 19% or less for framing and 12% or less for interior woodwork. We can measure for you at pickup so there are no surprises later.
4 Pressure-Treated vs Untreated: Don’t Confuse the Two
For decks, fences, sill plates, or anywhere wood meets concrete or soil, you need pressure-treated lumber. For interior walls, don’t use it — it’s heavier and pricier. Explore our outdoor materials for treated boards rated for ground or above-ground contact.
5 Buy Local for Local Conditions
Lumber that’s been stored outdoors in Missouri’s climate is already acclimated. We keep stock under covered shelters in Union, MO, which means fewer movement issues once installed. Avoid ordering from out-of-region wholesalers who may not understand Midwest moisture.
6 Plan for Waste and Cut Loss
Even experienced framers miscut boards. Always order 10–15% extra. Hall Brothers’ staff can help calculate the right buffer per job size — saving you emergency re-orders later.
7 Store and Handle Correctly on Site
Moisture exposure can undo kiln drying in days. Keep lumber off the ground on spacers, covered but ventilated. If you need just-in-time delivery, we can drop orders directly at your job site — no idle exposure time.
8 Ask Before You Buy — That’s What We’re Here For
We’ve supplied Missouri builders since 1938. Whether you need engineered LVL beams, cedar decking, or rough-cut framing packs, we’ll help you select the right species, grade, and treatment.
Quick Checklist Before Ordering
✅ Confirm species & grade ✅ Decide treated vs untreated ✅ Measure moisture content ✅ Add 10% waste factor ✅ Schedule delivery if needed
Ready to Build with Confidence?
Visit Hall Brothers Lumber in Union or call us today. Let our team help you choose lumber that fits your budget and beats Missouri weather. From framing to finishing, we’ve got you covered.