What Is Quartersawn Wood
Quartersawn wood refers to lumber that is cut in a specific way to showcase the wood’s grain pattern.
It is obtained by cutting a log into quarters and then slicing it at a 90-degree angle to the growth rings.
This unique cutting method creates distinct characteristics in the wood, including enhanced stability, decreased likelihood of warping, and a smoother surface.
Quartersawn wood is favored by furniture makers, designers, and architects due to its structural integrity, resistance to expansion and contraction, even aging, and reduced surface checking.
Additionally, it provides excellent resistance to moisture penetration and allows for enhanced paint retention.
Did You Know?
1. Quartersawn wood refers to lumber that is cut from logs in such a way that the growth rings are at a 60 to 90-degree angle to the wide face of the board. This method of cutting enhances the wood’s stability and durability.
2. Quartersawn wood is highly sought after in the construction of musical instruments, especially guitars. The even grain pattern of quartersawn wood allows the instrument to produce a more balanced and resonant sound.
3. Did you know that the technique of quartersawing wood dates back to antiquity? It was known to the ancient Romans and Egyptians, who used this method to obtain strong and stable wood surfaces for their intricate carvings and architectural elements.
4. Quartersawn wood often features striking grain patterns, such as tiger stripes, flecks, and rays. These unique patterns are more visible in certain wood species, such as oak, mahogany, and maple. This is why quartersawn wood is sometimes preferred for furniture and decorative items.
5. Quartersawn wood is also favored in the construction of flooring. Its enhanced stability makes it less prone to warping and shrinking, making it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas or regions with fluctuating humidity levels. Additionally, quartersawn wood flooring is known for its timeless and elegant appearance.
Characteristics Of Plain Sawn Lumber
When it comes to lumber, plain sawn wood is the most common and widely available option. It is characterized by its traditional, classic look and is easily distinguishable by the growth rings that run parallel to the face of the board. This method of milling creates a recognizable pattern known as cathedral grain due to its resemblance to a cathedral stained glass window.
Plain sawn lumber is known for its affordability and ease of production. It is less time-consuming to mill, which results in lower labor costs. However, this quick and efficient process can result in lower stability compared to other lumber choices. Plain sawn wood is more prone to movement and can be more susceptible to warping, cupping, and twisting. It is important to take proper precautions during installation and adequately account for potential expansion and contraction.
Some key points about plain sawn wood:
- Most common and widely available option
- Distinguished by growth rings parallel to the board’s face
- Recognizable cathedral grain pattern
- Affordable and easy to produce
- Lower stability compared to other lumber choices
- Prone to movement, warping, cupping, and twisting
“Plain sawn lumber is generally more affordable and easier to produce, but it may have lower stability and be more prone to certain issues. Proper installation methods and accounting for potential expansion and contraction are crucial for optimal results.”
Characteristics Of Quarter Sawn Lumber
In contrast to plain sawn lumber, quarter sawn wood is produced by milling boards at a 90-degree angle to the growth rings. This unique cutting method results in distinct characteristics that set it apart from other types of lumber.
One of the key features of quarter sawn wood is the beautiful ray fleck pattern that showcases the natural beauty of the timber. This pattern adds depth and visual interest to the wood grain, making it highly sought after by furniture makers, designers, and architects.
Quartersawn wood also exhibits superior structural integrity. The perpendicular cutting method reduces the likelihood of defects and creates a more stable and durable material.
Another advantage of quartersawn wood is its resistance to expansion, contraction, and warping. The way the lumber is cut minimizes the potential for moisture absorption, which helps maintain its dimensional stability. The even aging process of quartersawn wood further enhances its resistance to movement over time.
Moreover, quartersawn wood offers a smoother surface finish compared to plain sawn lumber. This makes it ideal for applications where a refined and elegant appearance is desired. The consistent grain and lack of surface checking contribute to its aesthetic appeal and make it easier to paint and finish.
- The unique cutting method of quarter sawn wood creates a beautiful ray fleck pattern.
- Quartersawn wood exhibits superior structural integrity, reducing the likelihood of defects.
- Quartersawn wood is resistant to expansion, contraction, and warping due to its cut.
- Quartersawn wood offers a smoother surface finish compared to plain sawn lumber.
Characteristics Of Rift Sawn Lumber
Rift sawn lumber is a type of wood that is cut at a slight angle of 15 to 30 degrees to the growth rings, falling between plain sawn and quarter sawn wood in terms of cutting method. This cutting technique results in a straighter grain pattern compared to quarter sawn wood, with fewer rays and flecks.
One of the advantages of rift sawn lumber is its enhanced stability and resistance to movement, similar to quartersawn wood. However, unlike quartersawn wood, rift sawn lumber typically lacks the distinctive ray fleck pattern. Nonetheless, it still offers a clean and uniform appearance, which may be preferred for certain design aesthetics.
Cost Differences Between The Three Types Of Lumber
When it comes to costs, plain sawn lumber is generally the most economical option. Its ease of production and higher yield from each log make it more affordable compared to quartersawn and rift sawn wood.
Plain sawn lumber is readily available and often used for construction purposes where aesthetics may not be a primary concern.
Quartersawn and rift sawn wood, on the other hand, tend to be more expensive due to the additional labor involved in their production. The unique cutting methods require more time and effort, resulting in higher prices.
Nevertheless, the enhanced visual appeal, durability, and stability of these types of lumber make them worth the investment for those seeking high-quality materials.
Labor Involved In Milling Quartersawn Wood
Milling quartersawn wood entails a complex process compared to plain sawn lumber. To achieve the desired quarter sawn grain pattern, the logs must be carefully oriented and rotated during cutting. This necessitates skilled labor and precision machinery for consistent results.
Additionally, the yield from milling quartersawn wood is lower due to the specific cutting method. The logs must be sectioned to maximize the production of quartersawn boards. Consequently, obtaining quartersawn lumber can result in a higher price per board foot due to increased labor and reduced yield.
Nonetheless, the additional effort and cost of milling quartersawn wood are worth it for those who appreciate its unique aesthetic and superior qualities. Its structural integrity, resistance to movement, and attractive grain pattern make it a popular choice for furniture makers, designers, and architects alike.
- Quartersawn wood involves a more intricate process than plain sawn lumber.
- Logs must be carefully oriented and rotated to achieve the desired grain pattern.
- Skilled labor and precision machinery are required for consistent results.
- The yield from milling quartersawn wood is lower due to the specific cutting method.
- Quartersawn lumber can be more expensive per board foot due to increased labor and reduced yield.
- However, the unique aesthetic and superior qualities make it worth the additional effort and cost.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Quartersawn timber?
Quartersawn timber refers to a type of lumber that is cut into four quarters at a radial angle, resulting in annular rings intersecting the board’s face at angles of 60-90 degrees. Considered a mid-grade board, it is fairly common but comes with a slightly higher price compared to plain sawn lumber. The unique cutting technique of quartersawing creates a distinctive grain pattern and enhances the wood’s stability and resistance to warping, making it a favored choice for applications where strength and durability are desired.
What kind of wood is quarter sawn?
Quarter sawn wood can be made from a variety of wood species, but some of the most sought-after ones are red oak, white oak, walnut, maple, and cherry. These woods exhibit dramatic flecking, adding a visually appealing element to the finished product. Aside from its distinctive grain pattern, quarter sawn wood is also known for its exceptional dimensional stability. This characteristic makes it highly preferred by woodworkers, offering ease and precision in crafting.
Is quarter sawn wood stronger?
Yes, quarter sawn wood exhibits enhanced strength compared to plain sawn wood due to its tightly packed grain pattern. This unique characteristic contributes to its improved durability and resistance to twisting and cupping. Additionally, this highly sought-after wood is less prone to splitting during construction, making it a preferred choice for various applications in woodworking and carpentry.
What is the Quartersawn process?
The quartersawn process is a method used in hardwood production. It involves taking a log and dividing it into quarters. These quarters are then taken to the resaw area where they are sliced by a re-saw. This re-saw cuts alternating faces of the log from the inside-out, while constantly turning the log end-for-end on a carousel. This process is used to create beautiful quartersawn hardwood, which is highly prized for its unique grain patterns and stability.
