There are hundreds of North
American hardwood species, each with distinct characteristics. Natural
hardwood products are never as uniform as wallpaper, for example, but
that's a major source of their charm. Heartwood, the oldest, densest,
innermost section of the log, is often darker and richer in color than
sapwood, which lies closest to the bark. Within each species, every tree
is an individual. No two logs carry the same signature knots, burls, or
mineral streaks. Their lumbers harmonize, but they vary in color, grain,
and an unlimited range of natural details called character marks. The
features within any single log are unpredictable. No two boards, even
from the same log, are identical. The
most common natural characteristics seen are:
Grain: the direction, size, appearance, and quality of the fibers that
give hardwoods strength and distinctive patterns.
Growth rings: layers of wood added to a tree during a single growing
season.
Knots: hard, cylindrical regions marking locations of branches that
have been encased by later growth of the tree.
Burls: rounded growths on a tree that produces curling, ornamental patterns
in lumber.
Mineral streaks: olive or grayish markings caused by environmental factors,
such as trace elements in water or soil.
Hardwood character marks
can add appeal for homeowners who appreciate natural materials. They
record a life in the forest as well as showing that more of each tree
harvested is used, responsibly, in lasting applications. They also extend
the range of creative options for the homeowner, builder, architect,
designer, and woodworker.
A log produces relatively
few clear boards--pieces free of character marks and other distinguishing
features. So boards with the no character marks rate the highest grades.
Much of the remaining lumber offers very good value, and may be perfect
for your particular project.
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