Which type of wood is most commonly used for framing houses?

Pine is the most commonly used wood for framing houses due to its availability, cost-effectiveness, and suitability for construction purposes. It is lightweight yet strong, making it ideal for structural applications like framing. Pine also has good workability, which allows for easy cutting, shaping, and assembly, essential attributes in carpentry. Additionally, pine is typically treated for durability and resistance to pests and decay, enhancing its longevity in building frameworks.

In contrast, oak is a much denser hardwood often reserved for furniture, cabinetry, and flooring rather than structural framing. Cedar is more frequently used for external applications such as siding or decking due to its natural resistance to moisture and insects but is not typically used for framing. Mahogany, known for its beautiful grain and durability, is also a hardwood used mostly in high-end furniture and cabinetry applications rather than framing houses.