While it may seem like something only grumpy old men say when looking at the past through rose-colored glasses, wood isn’t really what it used to be. Well, some species, anyway. If you’re looking back at the Chris Craft boats from the mid-1900s, the Philippine Mahogany used today … [Read more...]
Lumber Industry Savings: Short Boards
What’s wrong with short boards? The answer may surprise you: Usually even B grade “shorts” actually have fewer flaws than A grade longer boards! So there’s definitely nothing wrong with them! We could make an argument for the fact that there’s something wrong about a grading … [Read more...]
Why Exotic Lumber in 4/4 Thicknesses Can Be Scarce
When it comes to the U.S. lumber market, 4/4 is the most popular thickness by far; however, that same preference is not the case across the global market. As African species such as African Mahogany, Sapele, and Utile have become more popular in the U.S., they’ve run into … [Read more...]
Decking Choices: Plus Size Decking
In the wonderful world of decking two standard thicknesses are sold: 4/4 and 5/4, which end up being close to ¾” and 1” respectively once they’re finished. These thicker boards provide stability, whether the climate is wet or dry, even amid extreme swings in temperature and … [Read more...]
Why Walnut Lumber Deserves a Break, Part 2
An FAS Maple or Oak board will look significantly different from an FAS Walnut board. The former may actually be longer, in addition to having fewer knots and other “defects.” Not only is the term “defect” a bit of a misnomer in the opinion of many wood enthusiasts, but Walnut … [Read more...]
