Choosing the Right Wood for Your Project At Special Wood, we offer a diverse range of high-quality woods to suit any project. Each type of wood has unique characteristics that make it ideal for specific applications. Use this guide to explore our selection and find the perfect wood for your needs. Click on each wood type to learn more about its properties and common uses.
Cedar
Cedar is known for its natural beauty, durability, and aromatic properties.
Common Uses:
- Outdoor furniture and decking
- Siding and shingles
- Closet linings and chests
Characteristics:
- Naturally resistant to decay and insects
- Distinctive, pleasant aroma
- Light reddish-brown color with straight grain Special
Considerations:
Cedar may darken with age and exposure to sunlight. Regular sealing is recommended for outdoor applications.
Cherry
Cherry is prized for its rich color and fine, straight grain pattern.
Common Uses:
- High-end furniture and cabinetry
- Interior trim and moldings
- Decorative veneers
Characteristics:
- Smooth texture with a satiny luster
- Color darkens and reddens with age
- Moderate strength and durability
Special Considerations:
Cherry is photosensitive and may darken unevenly if partially exposed to sunlight.
Cypress
Cypress is known for its natural resistance to decay and attractive grain pattern.
Common Uses:
- Outdoor furniture and structures
- Siding and shingles
- Interior paneling
Characteristics:
- Naturally resistant to rot and insects
- Light to dark honey color
- Straight grain with occasional swirls
Special Considerations:
Cypress may contain small, dark knots known as “pecky cypress,” which some find aesthetically pleasing.
Douglas Fir
Douglas Fir is valued for its strength and versatility in construction.
Common Uses:
- Structural framing and beams
- Flooring and decking
- Plywood manufacturing
Characteristics:
- High strength-to-weight ratio
- Light reddish-brown color
- Straight grain with occasional spirals
Special Considerations:
Douglas Fir may be prone to splintering; careful handling and finishing are recommended.
Ipe
Ipe is an extremely dense, durable hardwood known for its longevity.
Common Uses:
- High-end decking
- Outdoor furniture
- Heavy-duty construction
Characteristics:
- Exceptional hardness and durability
- Dark brown color with occasional olive and black streaks
- Fine, tightly interlocked grain
Special Considerations:
Ipe is extremely dense and may be challenging to work with; pre-drilling is often necessary.
African and Fijian Mahogany
These mahoganies are prized for their rich color and excellent workability.
Common Uses:
- Fine furniture and cabinetry
- High-end interior trim
- Boat building
Characteristics:
- Rich reddish-brown color
- Straight to slightly interlocked grain
- Excellent stability and resistance to warping
Special Considerations:0
While durable, these mahoganies may require UV-resistant finishes for exterior use to prevent color fading.
Hard Maple
Hard Maple is known for its strength, durability, and fine, uniform texture.
Common Uses:
- Flooring and cutting boards
- Furniture and cabinetry
- Basketball courts and bowling alleys
Characteristics:
- Extremely hard and resistant to wear
- Light creamy color, sometimes with reddish tints
- Fine, uniform grain
Special Considerations:
Hard Maple can be challenging to stain evenly; clear finishes are often preferred to showcase its natural beauty.
White Oak
White Oak is prized for its strength, durability, and water-resistant properties.
Common Uses:
- High-quality furniture
- Flooring and decking
- Boat building
Characteristics:
- Dense and durable with high shock resistance
- Light to medium brown color
- Straight grain with a coarse texture
Special Considerations:
White Oak is resistant to moisture and decay, making it suitable for both interior and exterior applications.
