Ash, Beech, Cherry, Chestnut, Elm, English Oak, Imported Oak,
Japanese Oak, Lime, Mahogany, Rosewood, Teak, Walnut.
Hardwood is both strong and durable. It is more expensive than softwood because of its
longer life span. It is often used for furniture making. Take care to choose wood with
established growth. Younger sapwood is softer to work with. On the other hand, the heart
of the wood (centre of the log) is prone to splitting and can shrink or twist. The timber
should be seasoned and stored correctly.
Seasoning helps to strengthen the wood, by storing
it in a stacked pattern known as stick drying for a number of years before it is sold and used.
The wood can be split in places or warped if incorrectly stored. If it has not been covered
during storage it can be permanently damaged by watermarks. Inspect the quality of the wood
purchased for suitability for the job in hand. Be careful when selecting, a clean length is
not as useful as an older seasoned length.
- Sawn timber
It comes direct from being cut into sections, appearing rough without finishing.
- Planed timber
It comes machine cut and smooth edged.
The type of hardwood flooring most widely available is mosaic block flooring in panels.
These panels are flexible and the easiest type to lay. There is a low risk of allergy
because it is an easy to clean, a natural product.
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