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Hardwood applications
Hardwoods can be used for a wide range of applications and offer a huge diversity of colour and character. Wood is not a homogenous material, it comprises many different species, all with different characteristics and natural properties. Hardwoods, in particular, have more to offer than softwoods, due to the vast range of species available. It is this diversity that presents so much potential for prospective designers, but given such a wide range of species to choose from, means that specifying the right hardwood for the right application can be a complicated business. It is therefore essential to know your species and know their potential. This website sets out to inform prospective users of the characteristics and possible applications for one very important group of temperate species, American hardwoods. Some of the most important application categories for hardwoods are listed below.
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Interior Joinery
Hardwoods are commonly used for all aspects of interior joinery including; ceiling and wall cladding, doors, partitions, stairs, handrails, internal window frames, fitted cabinets, skirting’s, frames, mouldings and veneered panels. Prior to selecting a species it is important to ascertain that the gluing, finishing and machining properties are suited to the application. It is also important to note that some species are more stable than others in conditions where the ambient moisture may be changeable. Most commercially available American hardwood species machine and finish to a high standard and can be sourced in a range of specifications to suit most interior joinery applications. There is also a spread of colours from the light clean look of the maples and ash, the red hues of cherry, red alder and red birch, the distinctive grain of red and white oak, through to the dark rich brown of black walnut.
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Exterior joinery
For exterior applications it is important to ensure that the wood species selected has the necessary protection to withstand decay and weathering. Establishing the potential hazard application will determine what protection is required. For example joinery that is south facing and very exposed will be more at risk of deterioration. Ground contact or marine use would be the most hazardous conditions. It should be noted that the sapwood (often lighter coloured outer edge of the tree) of all species is non durable and will decay and rot in the right moisture conditions. If sapwood is present it should be treated with suitable preservative. The heartwood of some hardwoods can offer natural protection against decay and these species are classed as durable. (The degree of durability may vary). However, non durable hardwood species can also be used externally providing they are treated. Treated hardwoods will usually need a coating or finish to ensure the maximum performance of the preservative, but naturally durable species, such as oak, can be left to weather naturally.
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Furniture
Hardwoods are often the material of choice for high quality performance furniture of all shapes and styles. The wide range of natural colours and grains available provides a great choice of look and fashion to suit most environments. Many species can also be stained to alter their surface appearance. Prior to selecting a species it is important to ascertain that the gluing, finishing and machining properties are suited to the application. American hardwoods are ideal for most furniture applications and can be found in products worldwide, from mass produced tables and chairs to custom design hand crafted furniture made to last a life time.
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Flooring
Wooden flooring is becoming increasingly fashionable not just for it warm feel and look but also for its practical and long lasting performance. Wooden floors are seen as an investment and really can add value to a property. Of course the quality, performance and price of products can vary enormously so it is important to source the right product for any given application. Hardwood species are very widely used in flooring as many of them have natural hardwearing properties. Many American hardwoods are known as prime flooring species; such as red oak. White oak, ash, hickory and of course the hardest wearing of all, hard maple – perfect for gymnasiums and sports halls. Even slighter softer species such as cherry and walnut can be used very effectively for high traffic uses with the help of high performance coatings and finishes.