In addition to understanding lumber color change, in general, it can be helpful to understand the unique color-change scenarios of some particular species. Four lumber species stand out as having especially unique color-changing standard properties, varying greatly from their … [Read more...]
Lumber Color, Demystified: Understanding the Basics
The unique and somewhat unpredictable nature of wood can seem frustrating, at times, but it’s also what makes it so beautiful and intriguing! When we approach wood color realistically, we can enjoy its natural coloring and learn how to accommodate it. Observing and Slowing Color … [Read more...]
Understanding & Responding to Changes in Grading Categories for Walnut Lumber
Changes in grading systems understandably make us raise an eyebrow. After all, when it comes to manufactured lumber products, the obvious beneficiaries of that sliding scale end up being the manufacturers. While the situation is different for solid lumber, one common thread runs … [Read more...]
What Any Decking Lumber Needs Before it’s a Finished Product, Part 3
We all know how important first impressions are, especially when it comes to creating satisfied customers! So as important as it is to avoid bend or buckle and to smooth rough spots, none of those things will be as obvious as serious as appearance-only issues such as fluctuations … [Read more...]
Tips & Tricks for Color Matching Lumber – Part Four
After reading our first three articles in this series (see Parts 1, 2 & 3), you may feel ready to give up on color matching your wood. Not so fast! There’s plenty you can do to achieve your desired result of a near-perfect color-matched deck. Find a Reputable Lumber … [Read more...]
Tips & Tricks for Color Matching Lumber – Part Three
Besides the wood grain itself, several things can impact the color of your lumber (see Parts 1 & 2). These include natural weather phenomena like rain, sunshine, and wind, regional climactic differences. In this article, we’ll explore some of the ways these factors come into … [Read more...]
Tips & Tricks for Color Matching Lumber – Part Two
When it comes to the color of lumber, there are several different factors to consider (see Part 1). In this article, we’ll go into greater detail about how each of these variables will impact the color of your lumber. Hopefully, this information will help you make the wisest … [Read more...]
Tips & Tricks for Color Matching Lumber – Part One
Perhaps you’ve been dreaming of installing a deck with boards that are completely consistent in color. This would be the type of deck you’d see pictured in a high-end home magazine or featured in a home improvement store’s showroom floor. If that’s your ultimate goal, don’t be … [Read more...]
What Any Decking Lumber Needs Before it’s a Finished Product, Part 2
Once you realize what you’re up against (see Part 1), we hope you’re ready to take the steps necessary to convert your decking boards into a finished product. Grain-Related Issues As you work to transform your decking lumber into a finished product, one concern will be dealing … [Read more...]
What Any Decking Lumber Needs Before it’s a Finished Product, Part 1
Did you know that decking lumber isn’t actually a finished product? Sure, decking boards come to you planed on 4 faces and typically have sharp corners already eased (commonly abbreviated as S4S, E4E). If you’re using a clip system, your boards will also have a groove already … [Read more...]
The Lacey Act and Lumber Legality, Part 2
Many people, even within the lumber industry, had not been too concerned about Lacey Act compliance until the infamous Gibson Guitar case. In 2011, the well known guitar maker’s Tennessee headquarters was raided, under the premise that its Madagascar ebony could have been … [Read more...]
The Lacey Act and Lumber Legality, Part 1
How the lumber impacts the environment is definitely an important issue. If you’re a builder or end-use lumber customer in the US, it should be increasingly important to you, too. Combined with CITES regulations, Lacey Act regulations in the US have made everyone in the supply … [Read more...]
Wide Plank Flooring Basics: Special Installation Notes
Sourcing and milling boards is definitely important, when it comes to wide plank flooring. However, even the most stable, carefully selected and milled boards can produce a sub-par wide plank floor if the installation is botched. Preparing for Long-Term Success Wood movement is … [Read more...]
Wide Plank Flooring Basics: Getting the Right Boards
Wide plank flooring is a hot commodity in the high-end remodeling and construction industry presently. Planks a foot or more wide are often needed in larger rooms in order to appear in proper proportion to the area — unless your room happens to be a bowling alley, that is! Of … [Read more...]
Can You Prevent Cracks in Large Timbers?
Theoretically, you could dry large timbers and use them in a way that prevents any cracks from occurring. You’d have to dry them in a vacuum kiln and use them indoors and away from direct sunlight. And avoid any jarring sounds or movements near them. And . . . you get the idea. … [Read more...]
