
Wood Types
Each wood offers a unique texture, durability, and intricate natural pattern that affects its complimentary relationship with paints and stains.
Oak
-
High strength and durability.
-
Distinctive grain pattern, often characterized by prominent rings and knots.
-
Oak comes in two main varieties: red oak and white oak. Red oak tends to have a reddish-brown color, while white oak has a more golden hue.
-
If you want to showcase the natural beauty of the oak and prefer a more organic look, staining may be the better option.
-
Relatively resistant to moisture and rot, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications.


Maple
-
High hardness, density, and durability. Its resistance to wear makes it suitable for high-traffic areas.
-
Fine grain structure, making it more suitable for painting.
-
Typically has a light, pale color with minimal grain patterns.
Cherry
-
While not as hard as some other hardwoods, cherry is still durable and can develop a beautiful patina over time to protect it.
-
Has a rich, reddish-brown color that darkens with age and exposure to light. Perfect for sanding in stains for a rustic, worn-in look!
-
Has a smooth, fine texture and a lustrous finish.
-
Has a subtle grain pattern with occasional small knots.


Hickory
-
Extremely high strength and is one of the hardest and heaviest hardwoods.
-
Has a very distinctive grain pattern. Is a light to medium brown color with pronounced grain lines and occasional dark streaks.
-
Is resistant to rot and decay, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications.
Birch
-
Moderately hard and strong.
-
Has a fine, uniform texture and light color, ranging from creamy white to light yellow, making it more suitable for painting.
-
Has a smooth surface that takes stains and finishes well, allowing for versatile design options.
-
Is generally less expensive than some other hardwood.


Alder
-
Alder is classified as a softwood, although it is relatively hard compared to other softwoods.
-
Alder trees grow relatively quickly, making alder wood a more sustainable option compared to slower-growing hardwoods. It is often harvested from managed forests, contributing to its eco-friendliness.
-
Alder wood offers good durability and resistance to decay but is more suitable for indoor applications and may require protection if used outdoors.
