About SoftGrove

What This Site Covers

SoftGrove is focused on one narrow subject: helping Canadian DIY builders understand the lumber they purchase and how it fits into standard framing practice. The three areas covered in depth are:

• SPF grade stamps — what each field on a Canadian softwood lumber stamp means and how to use that information when selecting material.
• Moisture content — why the moisture condition of lumber at the time of purchase and installation matters for long-term framing performance.
• Span tables — how to locate and read the correct table when sizing floor joists, ceiling joists, rafters, and headers for sheds and detached garages under Canadian building codes.

Sources and Standards Referenced

Content on this site draws from publicly available Canadian standards and building guidance documents, including:

• The National Lumber Grades Authority (NLGA) Standard Grading Rules for Canadian Lumber.
• The National Building Code of Canada (NBC), Part 9, published by the National Research Council of Canada.
• CMHC's Wood-Frame House Construction (BP 5), available through Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation.
• Provincial building code supplements, which may modify NBC span tables for local conditions.

Scope and Limitations

This site covers prescriptive framing under Part 9 of the NBC — the section that applies to houses and small buildings, including most residential accessory structures. It does not cover engineered design under CSA O86 or commercial/industrial construction under Part 4.

Span table values and code requirements change between NBC editions and between provinces. Always confirm the edition of the NBC or provincial code that is in force in your jurisdiction before applying any figures found here.

Contact

For corrections, feedback, or questions about the content on this site, use the form below.