From Log to Lumber: Understanding the Different Types of Wood Cuts in the Industry
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- January 31, 2023
- 9:44 pm
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In the lumber industry, the way a tree is cut and processed can greatly affect the quality and appearance of the final product. Understanding the different types of wood cuts can help ensure that you select the right type of lumber for your project. From quarter-sawn to flat-sawn, there are several different types of wood cuts that are used in the lumber industry to prepare wood for various uses. In this article, we will take a closer look at the various types of wood cuts commonly used in the lumber industry, their specific uses and applications, and examples of species that are commonly cut in these different types.
Whether you’re a professional carpenter, a home builder, or a DIY enthusiast, understanding these different types of wood cuts will help you to select the right type of lumber for your project and ensure that you get the best results.
Plain-sawn: This type of cut is made by cutting the log parallel to the widest face, producing boards with a distinctive, wavy grain pattern. This type of cut is often used for framing, decking, and other general construction applications. Plain-sawn wood is not as stable as quarter-sawn or rift-sawn wood, which means it is more likely to warp or twist. However, the wavy grain pattern found in plain-sawn wood is considered attractive by some people. For example, Pine is a species of wood that is often plain-sawn to produce dimensional lumber and framing. This type of cut is known as flat-sawn as well.
Examples of plain cut lumber include:
Dimension Lumber: This is the most commonly used type of plain cut lumber. It is typically used in construction projects, such as framing, decking, and flooring.
Siding: Used for exterior walls and roofs, siding is another example of plain cut lumber. It is available in a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and vinyl.
Lumber for Furniture: Furniture makers also use plain cut lumber in their work. Pieces of wood are cut to specific lengths and widths, then glued together to form furniture pieces like tables, chairs, and bookshelves.
Quarter-sawn: This type of cut is made by cutting the log into quarters and then cutting the boards parallel to the growth rings. This produces boards with a distinctive, straight grain pattern and is often used for furniture, flooring, and other high-end applications. Quarter-sawn wood is more stable than other types of cuts, which means it is less likely to warp or twist. Additionally, the straight grain pattern found in quarter-sawn wood is often considered more attractive than other types of cuts. For example, Oak is a species of wood that is commonly quarter-sawn to produce flooring and furniture.
Examples of quarter sawn lumber include:
Oak Flooring: Quarter sawn oak is prized for its distinctive grain pattern and stability. It is often used for flooring, cabinetry, and furniture, and is known for its durability and resistance to cupping and warping.
White Oak: White oak is another example of quarter sawn lumber, and is frequently used for cabinetry, furniture, and architectural millwork. Its tight, straight grain pattern and high stability make it a popular choice for fine woodworking.
Cedar: Quarter sawn cedar is a popular choice for outdoor use, as it is naturally resistant to rot and decay. It is commonly used for decking, shingles, and siding.
Quarter sawn lumber is valued for its distinctive grain patterns, stability, and resistance to warping and cupping. These attributes make it an excellent choice for high-end woodworking projects where appearance and durability are important factors.
Rift-sawn: This type of cut is made by cutting the log at a slight angle to the growth rings, producing boards with a straight grain pattern that is less pronounced than quarter-sawn lumber. This type of cut is often used for furniture, cabinetry, and other high-end applications. Rift-sawn wood is also relatively stable and is less likely to warp or twist. Additionally, the straight grain pattern found in rift-sawn wood is considered more attractive than other types of cuts. For example, White Oak is often rift-sawn to produce cabinetry and furniture.
Examples of rift sawn lumber include:
Cherry: Rift sawn cherry is a popular choice for furniture, cabinetry, and flooring, due to its uniform color and tight, straight grain pattern. It is known for its stability, resistance to warping and cupping, and beautiful appearance.
Maple: Rift sawn maple is prized for its uniformity, making it an excellent choice for architectural millwork, such as molding and trim. It is also used for flooring, cabinetry, and furniture, and is known for its stability and resistance to warping.
Walnut: Rift sawn walnut is a premium wood, known for its rich, dark color and uniform grain pattern. It is often used for furniture, cabinetry, and flooring, and is highly prized for its beauty and durability.
Rift sawn lumber is valued for its uniformity and stability, making it a popular choice for fine woodworking projects, where appearance is a critical factor. Its tight, straight grain pattern, and consistent appearance make it an ideal material for high-end construction, cabinetry, and furniture projects.
Live-sawn: This type of cut is made by cutting the log in a way that produces a mix of plain-sawn and quarter-sawn boards. This type of cut is often used for flooring, paneling, and other decorative applications. Live-sawn wood has the advantage of providing a mix of the straight grain pattern found in quarter-sawn wood and the wavy grain pattern found in plain-sawn wood. This type of cut is also relatively stable and is less likely to warp or twist. For example, Walnut is a species of wood that is often live-sawn to produce flooring and paneling.
Examples of live sawn lumber include:
Reclaimed Wood: Reclaimed wood is often live sawn, preserving the natural beauty and character of the original material. This type of lumber is popular for use in flooring, furniture, and other decorative applications.
Wide Plank Flooring: Live sawn lumber is frequently used for wide plank flooring, providing a unique and authentic look that cannot be achieved with other types of cuts.
Accent Walls: Live sawn lumber is a popular choice for creating accent walls, as it provides an eye-catching and natural texture that adds character to a space.
Live sawn lumber is prized for its unique and varied grain patterns, which can range from straight and uniform to wavy and irregular. This type of lumber is also known for its stability and durability, making it a popular choice for flooring, furniture, and decorative applications.
Please note that these are just a few examples of the many types of wood cuts that can be used in the lumber industry. Each type of cut has its own specific uses and applications, and the choice of which cut to use will depend on the specific project and the desired outcome. Additionally, the species of the tree, the size and shape of the log, and the desired yield from the log also play a big role in determining the type of cut used. Understanding these different types of wood cuts can help you to select the right type of lumber for your project and ensure that you get the best results.
Matt Sarmadi is an international trained Architect with a passion for carpentry. While he has spent the majority of his career working on commercial building restoration, he has always had a love for working with wood. In this blog, he shares his knowledge and experience with carpentry, including tips and techniques, and the latest tools and material. He is the owner of Renofield Inc.
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