Oak vs. Pine: Which Wood is Right for Your Next Project?

Choosing the Best Timber for Strength, Style & Longevity When it comes to custom woodworking and timber framing, one of the most important decisions is the type of wood you choose. At Code Studio, we work with various species, but oak and pine are two of the most common (and most asked about). Each has its strengths, style, and personality, and depending on your project, one may be better suited than the other. In this post, we’re breaking down the key benefits of oak and pine to help you make the right choice for your next build.

1. Strength & Durability

Oak is a dense hardwood, known for its strength and resistance to wear. It can handle heavy structural loads, resist daily dings and dents, and age gracefully, making it ideal for dining tables, staircases, exposed beams, and structural timber framing.

Pine is a softwood, lighter in weight and easier to work with. While not as tough as oak, pine still holds its own in many applications and is often used in furniture, trim work, and rustic accents. It’s more prone to scratches and dents, but many people love the way pine naturally “distresses” over time.

✔ Choose oak when you need durability and long-lasting strength

✔ Choose pine for lighter-duty projects or when you want a lived-in, rustic feel

2. Appearance & Style

Oak has a distinct, bold grain that gives projects a sophisticated and timeless look. It can be smooth and refined, or left with a more rugged, natural finish, depending on your design preferences. White oak has cooler, neutral tones, while red oak offers warmer hues.

Pine features a softer, straighter grain with characteristic knots, giving it a more relaxed and casual appearance. It’s often used in farmhouse, cottage, or rustic-style projects and pairs well with distressed or vintage finishes.

✔ Choose oak for refined, classic, or contemporary designs

✔ Choose pine for rustic charm or farmhouse aesthetics

3. Cost & Availability

Pine is generally more affordable and easier to source. Because it grows faster than hardwoods, it’s more widely available and ideal for budget-conscious projects.

Oak, while more expensive, offers long-term value due to its strength, durability, and higher-end finish. It’s often seen as an investment, especially for furniture or structural pieces meant to last generations.

✔ Choose pine if you're budget-conscious or working on a large-scale project

✔ Choose oak if you're investing in a high-end, long-term piece

4. Workability & Tools

Pine is softer, making it easier to cut, shape, and drill. This makes it great for decorative details, DIY projects, or areas requiring hand-finishing. It’s also lighter to move around on job sites.

Oak, being dense and tough, can be more challenging to work with—but it’s also more stable once shaped. You’ll need sharp tools and a bit more effort, but the result is solid, weighty, and professional.

✔ Choose pine for flexibility and ease of use

✔ Choose oak for maximum strength and refined finishing

5. Staining & Finishing

Oak absorbs stain evenly and beautifully, enhancing its natural grain and creating rich, warm tones. It’s often used with natural oils, matte finishes, or even bold stains to emphasize its pattern.

Pine can be more difficult to stain evenly due to its porous nature and knots. However, with a good pre-stain conditioner, it can look stunning. It’s also great for painted finishes or whitewashing for a lighter, rustic effect.

✔ Choose oak for bold, rich finishes that highlight grain

✔ Choose pine if you love the look of painted or distressed wood

So, Which Should You Choose?

Both oak and pine bring something unique to the table—literally. The right choice depends on your project goals, budget, and aesthetic preference. At Code Studio, we use both local Tennessee oak and pine, each carefully selected to suit your vision. Whether you're dreaming of a handcrafted dining table, a set of custom beams, or a rustic outdoor bench, we’ll help guide you to the right wood for your build.

Final Thoughts:

• Oak = timeless, strong, refined, and long-lasting

• Pine = warm, rustic, approachable, and budget-friendly

No matter which wood you choose, you’re investing in quality craftsmanship and a piece that’s built to last.

Ready to Get Started?

Let’s talk about your next custom timber project—and help you find the perfect material to bring it to life. 🪵