Hardwood Information

Hardwoods, derived from deciduous trees, are renowned for their durability, aesthetic appeal, and versatility in woodworking. This guide delves into the characteristics of hardwoods, their common uses, and essential considerations for working with them.

What Are Hardwoods?

Hardwoods come from angiosperm trees, which have broad leaves and produce seeds enclosed in fruit. They are characterized by:

  • Density and Strength: Generally denser and stronger than softwoods, making them ideal for high-traffic areas and structural applications.
  • Grain Patterns: Diverse and attractive grain patterns that enhance the visual appeal of finished products.
  • Growth Rate: Typically slower-growing, which contributes to their density and durability.

Considerations When Working with Hardwoods

Working with hardwoods requires attention to specific factors to ensure optimal results.

Tool Selection

  • Due to their density, hardwoods can be tough on tools. Ensure your equipment is sharp and robust.

Moisture Content

  • Hardwoods can be sensitive to moisture changes. Acclimate the wood to your workshop environment before use.

Finishing Techniques

  • The tight grain of some hardwoods may require specific finishing techniques to achieve the desired look.

Cost

  • Hardwoods are generally more expensive than softwoods. Plan your projects accordingly to minimize waste.

Popular Hardwood Species

Red Oak

  • Uses - Furniture (Indoor), Veneer, Trim, Plywood
  • Sources - U.S.A. and Canada
  • Characteristics - Straight wide grain, large pours
  • Workability - Machines nice with carbide blades or bits. Drill pilot holes.
  • Finishing - Takes stains and finishes very well.
  • Price - Moderate

White Oak

  • Uses - Furniture (Indoor & Outdoor), Veneer, Trim, Plywood
  • Sources - U.S.A. and Canada
  • Characteristics - Straight wide grain
  • Workability - Machines nice with carbide blades or bits. Drill pilot holes.
  • Finishing - Takes stains and finishes very well.
  • Price - Moderate to expensive

Hard Maple

  • Uses - Furniture (Indoor), Veneer, Trim, Plywood
  • Sources - U.S.A. and Canada
  • Characteristics - Straight wide grain
  • Workability - Dulls blades and burns wood. Use carbide blades.
  • Finishing - Staining can cause blotches, but finishes well.
  • Price - Moderate to expensive

Cherry

  • Uses - Furniture (Indoor), Veneer, Trim, Plywood
  • Sources - U.S.A. and Canada
  • Characteristics - Fine grain, smooth texture
  • Workability - Machines nice with carbide blades or bits. Burns
  • Finishing - Takes stains and finishes very well.
  • Price - Moderate

Walnut

  • Uses - Furniture (Indoor), Veneer, Trim, Musical Instruments
  • Sources - U.S.A. and Canada
  • Characteristics - Straight, fine grain, heavy
  • Workability - Machines nice with carbide blades or bits. Doesn’t burn
  • Finishing - Takes stains and finishes very well.
  • Price - Moderate

Birch

  • Uses - Dowels, Veneer, Trim, Plywood
  • Sources - U.S.A. and Canada
  • Characteristics - Straight grain, fine texture, tight pores
  • Workability - Machines nice with carbide blades or bits. Drill pilot holes.
  • Finishing - A good finish, but can have blotchiness
  • Price - Inexpensive to moderate

Hickory

  • Uses - Sporting Equipment, Handles for striking tools, Trim, Plywood
  • Sources - Southeastern U.S.A.
  • Characteristics - Straight to wavy grain, coarse texture
  • Workability - Dulls blades very quickly, but good for bending.
  • Finishing - Takes stains and finishes very well.
  • Price - Inexpensive

Aspen

  • Uses - Crafts, drawers
  • Sources - U.S.A. and Canada
  • Characteristics - Tight grain
  • Workability - Machines nice with carbide blades or bits.
  • Finishing - Great for painting
  • Price - Inexpensive

White Ash

  • Uses - Furniture, Boat Oars, Baseball Bats, Pool Cues, Handles for striking tools.
  • Sources - U.S.A. and Canada
  • Characteristics - Straight wide grain, coarse texture
  • Workability - Machines nice with carbide blades or bits. Drill pilot holes.
  • Finishing - Takes stains and finishes very well.
  • Price - Inexpensive

Poplar

  • Uses - Carving, Veneer, Secondary wood for furniture.
  • Sources - U.S.A.
  • Characteristics - straight, wide grain, fine texture.
  • Workability - Machines nice with carbide blades or bits. Drill pilot holes.
  • Finishing - Great for painting
  • Price - Inexpensive

Tips for Working with Hardwoods

  • Pre-Drilling: To prevent splitting, especially near edges, pre-drill holes before inserting screws or nails.
  • Sanding: Start with a coarser grit and progress to finer grits to achieve a smooth finish.
  • Joinery: Consider using strong joinery methods like mortise and tenon or dovetail joints to complement the strength of hardwoods.
  • Safety: Always wear appropriate safety gear, as hardwood dust can be more irritating than that from softwoods.

Final Thoughts

Hardwoods offer unparalleled beauty and durability, making them a preferred choice for many woodworking projects. By understanding their properties and employing the right techniques, you can create pieces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.