NEWS & RESOURCES
A type of sander used to smooth the surface of hardwood before finishing, known to leave chatter marks.
Refers to the intentional scratching, scraping and/or gouging of a flooring surface to create an antique look. This is accomplished either through hand scraping or by machine. Floors that are distressed by hand will be unique – no two floors will be alike. Floors distressed by machine will likely have a repetition of pattern which […]
The ability of the hardwood to retain its dimensions throughout its lifetime, avoiding warping, swelling and contracting in response to moisture and changes in temperature and humidity. High dimensional stability means the floor does not significantly warp, shrink or expand due to environmental changes.
Caused when wood strips or parquet slats absorb excess moisture and expand so much that the cells along the edges of adjoining pieces in the floor are crushed. This causes them to lose resiliency and creates cracks when the floor returns to its normal moisture content.
Visual changes in the color of the wood species caused by exposure to light, deprivation of light and air, or some chemical reaction.
When using hardwoods, portions of a board or plank having the quality required by a specific grade or for a particular use.
A term to describe what happens to wood as it grows. Curly wood looks like sand on the beach or river bottom with repeated ripples in the grain. The grain goes up and down causing the unusual look in the wood. This is also called “Fiddleback” or “tiger” grain.
A defect in the lumber where the face of the board warps up like the letter “U”.
Color varies from golden tan to a reddish brown; Grain is interlocked, with a medium texture and a waxy feel. Difficult to saw. High density. Very durable. Used for flooring, cabinetry, furniture, heavy construction, docks, railroad ties, bearings, handles, and other turned objects.