Category: wood

Oak is one of the most prized and sought-after hardwoods among woodworkers around the world. The Quercus genus, from which oak wood comes, is known to have about 500 species of trees and shrubs scattered across all over the planet. All species of oak can be broadly divided into two categories: red and white oak.

Many species of oak are found in Britain and other countries across Europe. Most of these belong to the white oak category.

The difference between red oak vs white oak is more complex than just their colours. While most white oaks have a light colour, there are exceptions as well. The same is true for red oak. If you’re looking to know about the various differences between white and red oak species, this article is for you. Let’s start with a brief introduction of the two types of oak.

What is oak wood known for?

Oak is a hardwood, and as such, it’s known for its amazing strength and durability, which might differ from one oak species to another. Many species of oak are naturally resistant to decay and a variety of insects. The colour of oak ranges between light brown and dark reddish across species.

Oak is used in everything, from making fine furniture to building construction, flooring, and outdoor projects such as boatbuilding. Many species of oak are inexpensive and easily accessible, particularly in their native regions. The two most common oak types are white oak and red oak.

There are some important differences between white oak and red oak. If you are planning to choose between these two wood types for your next project, reading this article will help you with the decision.

About White Oak

White Oak trees, scientifically known as Quercus alba, are renowned for their remarkable size. When allowed to grow naturally, these oak trees can reach exceptional heights, with an average height of around 80 feet and a breadth nearly matching their height when considering their extra-large branches.

Despite their imposing stature, White Oak trees are slow-growing trees. Native to North America, These trees produce a significant number of acorns (a type of fruit), which serve as a vital source of food for various wildlife and avian species.

White oak is a strong, beautiful and durable hardwood which is used in many applications ranging from construction to interior trim, furniture making, flooring, and outdoor projects.

In terms of appearance, White Oak features a lighter (brownish) colour compared to its red oak counterparts, which are on a darker side. Its bark has a rough and ashy texture with deep ridges, which sometimes makes it favoured by some landscaping enthusiasts.

In contrast to the rugged bark, White Oak leaves exhibit a smoother, more rounded appearance without sharp angles.

About Red Oak

The Red Oak – scientific name Quercus rubra or Quercus borealis – is not as tall as the White Oak but can still reach up to 75 feet in height. They are also less wide in terms of the length of branches.

Branches of a red oak tree have a more compact spread, making the tree look leaner and slimmer than white oak trees. Red Oak trees, contrary to their whiter counterparts, grow more quickly, often achieving up to 20 feet in height in just a decade. They can grow in various soil types and environments and provide sustenance and shelter for numerous wildlife species.

Red Oak timber can be identified by its significantly darker hue, especially when compared to White Oak. Their bark is smoother with fewer prominent ridges. In contrast to the rounded edges of White Oak leaves, Red Oak leaves have sharper tips.

Colour & Appearance

Red Oak boasts pinkish or salmon undertones, radiating warmth, while White Oak leans toward slightly darker brownish or beige hues for a more subdued look.

Red Oak exhibits a more aggressive grain pattern compared to the smoother appearance of White Oak. The pronounced grain of Red Oak not only improves its character but also provides durability, making the wood resistant to dents and scratches. It’s a great choice for busy commercial settings and households with kids and pets. While Red Oak showcases longer rays, White Oak has mineral rays, which make it a better option for contemporary designs.

When it comes to flooring, the comparison between Red Oak and White Oak unveils a striking contrast in colour and grain patterns. One notable aspect to consider when choosing between the two is staining. Both Red and White Oak readily accept stains, but White Oak is better when it comes to contemporary trends favouring greyish or white stain colours. Its natural brownish hue complements these shades beautifully, giving your project a modern and timeless aesthetic. On the other hand, the difference between White Oak and Red Oak becomes less pronounced as you use medium and darker stain shades, and they might even converge in appearance.

Hardness & Strength

When contemplating the choice of Oak timber for your upcoming woodworking project, it’s vital to compare the hardness. The Janka hardness rating of red oak is 1290 lbf. In contrast, White Oak enjoys a slightly higher hardness rating at 1360 lbf, making it stronger and more resistant to impacts.

However, it’s crucial to note that once both Red Oak and White Oak hardwoods are properly finished and sealed, their performance becomes nearly identical. Both become durable, long-lasting materials after finishing that can beautifully grace your projects, no matter the application. Since both red oak and white oak are nearly equally strong, your selection should ultimately depend on your aesthetic and functional preferences.

Durability

In terms of durability, there is a minor difference between the two hardwoods. Red Oak, with a Janka hardness rating of 1290 lbf, exhibits great strength and stability, making it well-suited for various applications. On the other hand, White Oak boasts an even higher rating at 1360 lbf, making it strong and more resistant to wear and impact.

Special attention must be paid when choosing oak furniture or flooring for high-traffic areas or places prone to heavy use. White Oak does fairly well in projects where exceptional durability is required, making it a preferred choice for flooring and furniture. However, both woods, once properly finished and sealed, offer great durability and longevity, ensuring that your furniture or flooring lasts for decades.

White Oak provides better resistance to moisture due to its closed-grain nature. This is why it is commonly used for making wine and beer barrels and boats.

Workability

Comparing the workability of Red and White Oak will give you a good idea about the right wood for your next project. Red Oak is generally easy to work with various tools, but it sometimes splinters and might require special attention during cutting and finishing. In contrast, White Oak can be slightly difficult to work with owing to its extra hardness, but it has superior bending qualities, making it a perfect choice for steam bending for intricate joinery applications.

Availability & Price

Both red and white oak are fairly inexpensive and are easily accessible around the world. However, depending on your location, one type of oak might be more easily available than another. In comparison, white oak might be a little more expensive.

Red Oak is more common and budget-friendly, making it a popular choice for many woodworking projects. In contrast, White Oak is typically less available and slightly more expensive owing to its superior durability and unique grain pattern.

Maintenance

When it comes to maintenance, both white and red oak require nearly similar care. This includes regular cleaning and dusting. Avoid excessive access to moisture and/or sunlight. Make sure to apply protective finishes and polish regularly which helps protect their beauty and longevity.

Because Red Oak has a more porous grain, it may absorb dust and moisture quickly and might need extra attention to prevent dirt buildup. In contrast, White Oak’s closed grain makes it easy to clean and maintain.

Uses

Both white and red oak find diverse applications due to their outstanding physical qualities, incredible appearance, and easy availability and affordability.

Red Oak is a versatile lumber that is used for furniture, cabinets, flooring, doors, windows, plywood, and interior trim. Its reddish hue adds character to these projects. White Oak, which is an equally beautiful and more durable wood with great resistance to moisture, is often preferred for marine and outdoor applications including boat building and barrels for wine. It’s also a good choice for fine exterior furniture. The high durability and stability of white oak make it suitable for flooring in high-traffic areas.

Red oak vs White Oak : Which is Better?

To conclude, both white and red oak are excellent hardwoods. Both are strong and beautiful. However, white oak is more durable and has better resistance to rot and moisture. Red oak is not very suitable for outdoor projects like boatbuilding. White oak is usually slightly darker than red oak.

If you need help selecting the right timber for your project, contact Cameroon Timber Export SARL to explore our wide range of premium quality, sustainable timber available in various sizes with worldwide shipping.

Maple and birch are two of the most common and popular types of hardwood used in commercial applications. Both types of wood are used for flooring and furniture making and are known for their high durability and beautiful appearance.

Given that there are many similarities between maple and birch wood, it’s easy to get confused when choosing the right timber for your project. Both types of wood come in many varieties in terms of colour and texture, which can make the selection even more difficult.

But, worry not. We intend to make it easy for you to select between maple and birch based on your particular preferences and project goals. We compare these two wood types on a number of factors, including physical appearance, properties, uses, availability, price, and workability to determine which wood is suitable in which conditions. Besides their respective properties, we also take a look at the pros and cons of both maple and birch.

About Maple wood

Maple wood, famous for its beauty and versatility, is obtained from various species of the Acer genus, with sugar maple and hard maple being the most common types of maple. All maple species (over 40) can be divided into two general categories – hard maple and soft maple – based on hardness.

Maple has a pale, creamy colour with occasional darker streaks. It has a fine, even grain, making it easy to work with this wood. Maple is a hard and durable wood, preferred for flooring, cabinets, furniture, and musical instruments. It takes finishing well, ensuring a smooth, final surface. The wood is moderately resistant to moisture and wear.

Hard maple is commonly found across the Northern US and Canada. Maple trees are also known for their use in creating the famous maple syrup. The sap of sugar maple trees is used for this purpose. Maple wood is a great choice for applications where the appearance, strength, and versatility of the wood are a concern.

What is Birchwood?

Birch wood is a hardwood that is obtained from various species in the Betula genus. It is particularly known for its distinctive appearance and various practical applications. Birch has many species, the most common of which include white birch, yellow birch, and paper birch.

Birch has a light cream or pale yellow hue, sometimes with darker reddish or brown streaks. The grain is typically straight and even, making the wood easier to use in a range of woodworking projects. Birch is moderately strong and durable and is commonly used for making high-quality furniture, flooring and cabinetry. One of the most common uses of Birch is for making plywood for use in construction and furniture making. Birch wood is also known for its stability. The bark of birch trees has been historically used for making canoes and decorative items.

Maple vs Birch

Between maple and birch, maple is a harder, stronger and more durable wood with outstanding workability. It is easy to stain and finish and can be made to look like mahogany or cherry through polish. Maple is also generally more expensive than birch timber.

Maple vs. Birch: Appearance

Maple is a light-coloured wood with a pleasant appearance. The wood colour ranges from white to cream or light yellow. It is generally stained to achieve darker hues.

Birch is also a light-coloured wood with its colour ranging from white-yellowish to light brown. It sometimes has darker streaks on its surface. The wood becomes darker with age. The grain is fine and wavy and there is natural lustre in the wood’s surface.

Freshly-cut maple is light, cream-coloured but the colour gets darker to yellowish or reddish-brown with age and constant exposure to direct sunlight, which is why it is generally not recommended for outdoor use. Maple features unique and attractive grain patterns, such as spalted maple, which further enhances its appeal.

Birch has a long, horizontal grain and very thin bark (like paper). However, it looks nearly the same as maple after processing. Compared to hard maple, birch has a slightly looser grain structure and the colour is slightly darker.

Maple vs. Birch: Strength & Durability

With a Janka hardness rating of 1,400-1,500 lbf, maple is considered a very hard and strong wood.

Birch is a strong and moderately heavy wood. With a hardness rating of 1,260 lbf, it (Yellow Birch) is tough and durable enough for use in applications like flooring and furniture making.

Maple is a naturally durable wood which can resist moisture and insects to some extent. It is a robust wood with a high Janka rating, making it durable enough for some projects. It is somewhat resistant to moisture and high temperatures and can be used in a range of sensitive applications, including kitchens and outdoors. Maple’s resistance to cracking is also worth mentioning and why it is preferred by cabinet makers.

Birch is not as strong as maple, but it is durable and robust enough to produce long-lasting furniture. The wood is not naturally resistant to rot, decay, and insects and must be treated before use in outdoor projects.

Maple vs. Birch: Workability

Maple is one of the best woods in terms of workability. It works well with both hand and machine tools. It is easy to polish and stain. The smooth grain pattern of maple wood makes it easy to cut, shape and carve. The wood might sometimes burn when being cut with high-speed machines. It turns, glues, and finishes well. Staining without a pre-conditioner or toner can result in a blotchy surface.

Birch is fairly easy to work with. It is easy to cut, carve, and peel, but slightly difficult to split. Staining and polishing results are good. Sometimes, it may have wild or wavy grain, which can cause tearout during machining. It responds well to turning, glueing, and finishing.

Maple vs. Birch: Maintenance

Maple is easy to maintain with routine cleaning and care. It involves dry dusting with a cloth or vacuuming, Spills must be cleaned immediately with suitable, chemical-free cleaning solutions. Your maple flooring and furniture should be kept safe from excess moisture and cleaned regularly to preserve their beauty and life.

Birch is also easy to maintain, but it must be stabilized to minimize the impact of humidity change. Occasional cleaning, including washing with a mild detergent using a soft cloth to prevent scratches should be more than enough to maintain its quality and appearance.

Maple vs. Birch: Availability & Price

Both maple and birch wood fall within the medium price range, which means they are neither very affordable nor very expensive.

Maple is a strong hardwood with good availability and moderate price and is often used as a less expensive alternative to more costly hardwoods such as oak, walnut, cherry, and mahogany.

Birch is even less expensive than maple and more easily accessible in all parts of the world.

Sustainability

Maple wood is profoundly available in its native regions of North America and Canada, which is why it is considered a sustainable choice and can be accessed by locals without long-distance transportation. It is also easier to work with and process with a low carbon footprint. It’s not a vulnerable or endangered wood.

Birch wood is also a sustainable hardwood with a higher growth rate than most other hardwoods. Different species of birch are found in different locations around the world. To further enhance its sustainability and availability, birch is commonly manufactured and used in plywood form, which is definitely a more eco-friendly option.

Maple vs. Birch: Uses

Maple is one of the most popular timbers in its native North American region. It is used for practically everything, from making beautiful furniture to musical instruments, flooring, paper, and more. Maple flooring is robust and suitable for commercial settings, basketball courts, dance floors and residential uses. Because of its robust structure and durability, it is commonly used for making cutting boards. Other uses include baseball bats (high shock-resistance), workbenches, butcher blocks, turned objects, toys, etc.

Birch is a versatile hardwood with many uses. As an inexpensive wood, it has various commercial applications. Birch plywoods are extremely popular and easy to work with and stain/polish. Birch is also a perfect choice for cabinetry. It is often used as a less expensive hardwood for flooring. Other uses include furniture, boxes, crates, interior trim, turned objects, and small speciality items.

Conclusion

Now that you have a pretty good understanding of both maple and birch timber, we hope you can easily determine which wood would be the best for your next project. If you still need help, feel free to contact us to consult with an expert. We are Cameroon Timber Export SARL and we manufacture, sell and export premium wood timber in 20+ countries across Asia, Europe, America, and Saudi Arabia.

There are many varieties of oak, of which American Oak and European Oak are two of the most famous. If you’re considering oak hardwood for your next project, here’s everything you need to know about the difference between American and European oak.

Both oak wood types are beautiful, strong and durable woods which are considered suitable for a wide range of applications, from furniture making to flooring, construction and outdoor projects. However, the two species aren’t exactly alike when it comes to appearance and various physical characteristics, which we will explore in detail here.

Both American oak (Quercus Alba) and European oak (Quercus Petraea) belong to the same genus and have acorns on their trees, which is how they reproduce.

About American oak

American white oak is a popular commercial hardwood timber throughout the US and in other parts of the world. It’s native to the Eastern United States and has a light to medium brown heartwood. It is a hard and durable wood that is used in boatbuilding, flooring, furniture making, cabinetry, and outdoor applications. It’s easy to work with and moderately expensive wood.

About European oak

Found in most of Europe, this hardwood is both used locally and exported to other regions. It is very durable in terms of resistance to decay and is extensively used in outdoor applications and boatbuilding. The heartwood is light to medium brown and generally has an olive cast. It is easy to work with and used in cabinetry, flooring, furniture, veneer, and boatbuilding.

American Oak vs European Oak

Tree & Origin

Both are large trees with broad crowns. European oak trees are generally taller, while American oak trees have wider crowns.

The average height of an American oak tree is 65-85 ft (20-25 m) and the trunk diameter is around 3-4 ft (1-1.2 m) trunk diameter. English Oak or European Oak trees are about 80-115 ft (24-35 m) tall and have a 3-5 ft (1-1.5 m) trunk diameter.

While it is found mainly in eastern and central North America, European oak is native to Britain and Western Europe, mainly France.

Appearance

European oak features a warm, honeyed golden brown colour, which is usually darker and richer than the lighter brown colour of American oak. Its grain pattern is more prominent with visible knots, swirls, and occasional figuring, which gives the timber a rustic and charming appeal. On the other hand, American oak has a less specific, straighter and more uniform grain pattern, which makes it perfect for simple boards with a uniform look.

Both types of oak display some level of colour variation, which is common in natural timber and makes the wood look more attractive. The colour across European oak boards is more consistent with a unique grain pattern. American oak is particularly famous for its colour variation but the grain pattern is indistinct.

Strength & hardness

When comparing European oak to American white oak in terms of strength and density, you’ll find that hardwoods are robust and scratch-resistant. While European oak with an approximate density of 675kg/m³ is quite dense, American oak is slightly denser at around 759kg/m³, making it a little harder and stronger.

European oak scores a decent 1,120 lbf on the Janka scale, indicating its hardness and resistance to wear. In comparison, American oak is a little better with a score of 1,360 lbf, which shows that it’s harder and more resistant to heavy use and potential damage.

Durability

European oak outperforms American white oak in terms of durability and resistance to outdoor elements such as weather and heat. Both kinds of wood can withstand moisture, UV rays, and decay, but European oak does it better. Kiln-dried European oak is protected against moisture and is an excellent choice for outdoor use.

American white oak, while durable and moderately resistant to decay, has larger pores, which might make it susceptible to water absorption over time and cause the wood to warp. Additionally, exposure to heat and sunlight can lead to discolouration in American white oak. Therefore, European oak is generally a superior choice for outdoor projects where longevity and aesthetics are a concern.

Maintenance

American Oak, known for its durability, requires rather low maintenance. It doesn’t warp or split easily due to its tight grain. Regular dusting and occasional polishing are a good way to keep your American Oak furniture or flooring beautiful for a long time and enhance their lifespan. Stains and scratches on the floor or furniture can be easily repaired in this low-maintenance wood.

European Oak, while equally strong and durable, usually has a slightly more open grain, which means it can capture dirt and moisture faster. However, with proper care, including regular cleaning, polishing and sealing, its furniture and flooring will maintain their elegance for generations. Maintenance requirements may be slightly higher, but is definitely worth the effort.

Workability

European oak is known for its excellent response to natural oil finishes, which further enhances the appearance of the wood. On the other hand, the finishing results on American white oak are less consistent.

European oak also responds well to ‘fuming,’ where the wood is darkened using chemicals to give it a rich, walnut-like appearance and improve its grain pattern. American oak also produces great results with fuming and the outcome is a more attractive wood with variable hue.

Both European and American oak respond well to screw and nail applications. However, contact with iron for a long time might lead to colour leaching.

Price & Availability

American Oak has abundant availability in North America and is therefore a usually more affordable option for woodworkers and homeowners in regions where it grows naturally. It is a cost-effective choice for furniture and flooring projects in the region. Moreover, the popularity and high availability of American Oak ensures that a wide range of wood products and timber in various sizes are readily accessible in the market. It is moderately priced for exported wood.

European Oak, which is native to Europe, is highly regarded for its quality, appearance and durability. Due to its limited growth and availability, European Oak can be pricier and less accessible, especially in regions other than where it grows naturally. Its high demand also drives up costs, especially for exported wood products.

Uses

Both European oak and American oak are outstanding choices for structural and construction applications, such as homebuilding and exterior uses like pergolas, gazebos, porches, and garages. European oak is most commonly used in the UK and Europe, while American white oak is favoured by woodworkers in the United States depending on availability.

Both woods are versatile and considered suitable for various interior uses, from flooring and furniture making to cabinetry, interior millwork, worktops, doors, windows, and skirting. While American oak is known for its uniform appearance and modest grain appeal, European oak is favoured for its unique wavy grain pattern offering a rustic, characterful interior theme.

European oak, due to its resistance to moisture, is better suited for outdoor use, as it is less prone to warping and cracking over time even when in contact with water. It’s also a better choice for bathrooms and kitchens.

American vs European Oak: Which hardwood is suitable for you?

If you’re working on a new woodworking project and looking for the right hardwood, both American Oak and European Oak are excellent choices. Both are attractive, strong and durable woods. European oak is darker and slightly more durable than American oak. Also, you must factor in the availability and price of timber in your region.

Confused? Contact Cameroon Timber Export Sarl or visit our website to explore our wide range of premium quality hardwoods, sawn timber, and logs available in various custom sizes and at a great price. If you need help selecting the right wood for your next project, contact us to talk to an expert.

Woodworking refers to the use of wood for manufacturing a variety of items, or, in other words, it simply refers to working with wood.

Woodworking is practised both as a hobby and as a profession. There are many types of woodworking, some of which are easier than others. From installing a wooden shelf to making a wooden chair by hand, anything that involves the use of timber can be referred to as woodworking.

Not every type of woodworking is for everyone. Even the most proficient woodworkers specialize only in limited forms of woodworking. Whether you’re working with wood as a hobby or as a profession, it might help to know about the different types of woodworking in order to choose the right type for your particular knowledge and goals.

Different Types of Woodworking

Wood can be used in a range of applications and to make a variety of products. The art of manufacturing different types of items from wood gave birth to different forms of woodworking, some of which are as follows:

1. Woodcarving

Woodcarving is one of the oldest and traditional wooden crafts that involves the detailed and careful shaping of wood to turn it into specialised carvings using tools such as chisels, gouges, and knives. Woodcarvers specialize in crafting beautiful and intricate figurines, shapes, decorative ornaments, and meticulous sculptures from simple wooden blocks or panels. This ancient form of woodworking requires both a deep understanding of wood and artistic skill with accuracy to build enchanting and finely crafted wooden products.

2. Woodturning

As the name suggests, this type of woodworking involves making turned items from wood. Woodturning is a specialized woodworking method where artisans convert a wooden block into a turned or round object by spinning it on a special machine called a lathe. Woodturning is used to produce symmetrical, rounded objects from wood such as round wooden handles, bowls, vases, and round table legs. Not all types of wood are suitable for woodturning, with maple, walnut and cherry being some of the best choices.

3. Wood Burning (Pyrography)

Wood Burning, also known as Pyrography, involves burning the surface of the wood using a specialised tool, generally to carve attractive designs. A heated tool is used to inscribe detailed designs and prints onto wooden surfaces. Controlled burns are used to avoid extensive burning of wood or significant damages. This allows the creation of decorative designs, detailed patterns, scenes, pictures, etc. on wood and has been historically used for artistic expression on wood.

4. Furniture Making

Furniture Making is probably the most popular and common use of wood. It is also the most famous type of woodworking. It is popular both as a hobby and a profession because making furniture items from wood is among the easiest forms of woodworking. This is at least true for basic and simple furniture items such as tables and chairs. However, making contemporary and artistic furniture products from wood demands extensive expertise with design skills. Wood timber is used for making everything from simple chairs and benches to complex cabinets and decorative furniture pieces with a focus on both quality and aesthetic appeal.

5. Epoxy Woodworking

Epoxy Woodworking is a modern woodworking style, where wood is combined with epoxy resin to produce strong and visually stunning products that are also very durable. The most common example is epoxy river tabletops, which are created by joining two or more panels of timber using transparent epoxy resin, which enhances both the durability and natural appeal of the final product. Epoxy resin is a very strong adhesive particularly suitable for structural and engineering applications. This type of woodworking has opened several new opportunities in the creative woodworking space beyond traditional woodworking.

6. Construction

Wood is among the most common materials used in construction. From core building structures to wall panels, roofs, doors, windows, and flooring, wood is usable in every part of every type of construction project, be it residential or commercial. Wood has outstanding stability, versatility, strength, and sustainability, which make it one of the favoured options for construction, including framing, siding, flooring, decking, roofing, and much more. The use of wood in construction projects offers natural beauty with durability over alternative construction materials like stone and concrete.

7. Boxes

Box manufacturing is one of the very common applications of wood. Wood is used for building a variety of boxes and other packaging materials, ranging from small decorative trinket boxes to paper boxes and large storage containers. Normally, softwoods, which are cheap and easily available, are used for making boxes. Craftsmen use their artistic skills to create highly functional and designer boxes tailored to a variety of uses, from showcasing/packing jewellery to storing or gifting keepsakes, and safekeeping tools. Wooden boxes provide both beauty and durability to whatever application they are used for.

8. Cabinetry

Cabinetry is among the most popular uses of timber. It involves making beautiful cabinets from wood by using a variety of tools for cutting and joining. Modern cabinetry woodworking focuses on creating attractive and durable storage solutions for residences and commercial spaces that provide a balance between functionality and aesthetics. Different types of custom cabinets are created and used in kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas of a building. Both natural wood like hardwood or softwood and engineered wood like plywood are used for the construction of strong cabinets. Polishing, staining and lamination are popular decorative methods used for enhancing the appearance of wooden cabinets.

9. Boat Building

Wood is also commonly used for building boats, ships and other marine applications. It’s, in fact, a centuries-old craft where traditional craftsmanship is combined with cutting-edge tools and techniques to build high-tech ships using water-resistant wood. Wood can be used to create a wide range of vessels and marine products, from small rowboats and canoes to commercial boats, sailboats, yachts and parts for ships. Wood types intended to be used for boat building must be highly durable and resistant to water and weather elements.

10. Woodworking Art

The use of wood for art has been going on for centuries. Examples include the use of wood for crafting creative sculptures, installations, designs, and other intricate wooden artworks. In modern times as well, wood is extensively used in the art industry. Wood millwork is a good example of that. It refers to decorative items made of wood to be used in building construction. Wood is favoured by artists as a sustainable material which is beautiful, durable and easy to work with.

11. Scroll Sawing (scrolling)

Scroll Sawing, or scrolling, is a branch of woodworking that involves creating small specialty items from wood by using a fine-blade hand or machine saw. Wood artists use the saw to make detailed and precise cuts in wood, generally to carve small items, toys like wooden puzzles, ornaments, decorative items, and intricate patterns. It takes a high level of precision and outstanding artistic skills to do this kind of work.

12. Wooden Joinery

Wooden Joinery refers to the practice of joining wood to create high-quality, connected wooden pieces. This is a type of woodworking that is used in many other woodworking projects like furniture making, construction, etc. The goal is to create strong and durable connections between wood pieces. Based on how wood pieces are joined, there can be a variety of wood joints, such as dovetails, mortise and tenon joints. Some are better and stronger than others. A variety of products and tools like glue, nails, screws, etc. are used for wood joinery.

13. Intarsia and Marquetry (Wood Mosaics)

Intarsia and Marquetry, often referred to as Wood Mosaics, is an artistic form of woodworking, which involves the inlaying of wood. In simple words, different types of wood or wood with other materials are combined in artistic patterns to create stunning pieces and designs. Intarsia involves the use of solid wood pieces to form detailed images using wood or other materials. Marquetry uses thin veneers on which decorative patterns are carved.

14. Hand Woodworking

Hand Woodworking refers to a type of woodworking where only hand tools like hand saws, knives, planes, cutters, and chisels are used to create products from wood. This method of woodworking is used for building a variety of products, ranging from intricate wooden art to handmade wooden items like boxes, baskets, chairs, stools, toys, and more.

15. Digital Woodworking

Digital Woodworking involves the use of the latest technological resources and tools like CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines to boost the efficiency and speed of the woodworking process. The use of automated or computerized machines in woodworking is very common nowadays. These machines can automate tasks such as wood shaping, cutting, carving, and engraving with high precision and low errors, ensuring detailed and high-quality designs.

16. Power Carving

Power Carving is a woodworking form where carving is done using specialized power tools like grinders and rotary tools. This provides more efficiency and precision over wood carving by hand to create high-quality wood sculptures. These high-speed wood carving tools also help reduce the carving time to create beautiful, three-dimensional wooden artworks quickly and efficiently.

Types of Woodworking : The Final Verdict

There may be multiple other types of woodworking. Having a brief understanding of the various forms of woodworking might help you determine the best choice for your woodworking profession or hobby. If you’re a beginner, you should start with a rather easy woodworking project such as building a simple table or bench or shelf.

If you are looking to buy the best wood for your woodworking project, checkout our website for over 40 varieties of hardwood and softwood with the option of convenient online payments and worldwide delivery. Contact us to request a quote.

Teak and Eucalyptus are two of the most popular hardwood species used for outdoor projects such as decking and outdoor furniture.

Both Teak and Eucalyptus are strong and durable woods, but teak wood is superior in terms of durability and stability. Eucalyptus, on the other hand, is a hard but brittle wood that is prone to distortion and surface-checking.

Teak is usually hard to find and can be quite expensive depending on where you live. As one of the most durable and beautiful woods, teak has a very high demand in commercial applications. This is why woodworkers often look for alternatives that share similar properties to teak but are less expensive. Eucalyptus fits the bill.

If you’re planning to use Eucalyptus wood as an alternative to teak wood in your woodworking project, read here about a few very important things you should know about the difference between teak vs Eucalyptus timber.

What is Teak wood?

Teak is a hardwood native to India and Southeast Asia (Burma, Thailand, Lao). It’s one of the most popular hardwoods in the world known for its outstanding beauty, high durability, and natural resistance to rot and insects. The golden-brown colour of teak turns to a silverish hue over time, making teak furniture look more visually appealing as it ages.

Teak timber is particularly favoured for outdoor applications due to this wood’s incredible strength and durability. This includes decking and outdoor furniture. Teak has natural oils which make it resistant to water and insects. It doesn’t decay or rot easily even when in constant contact with water. Teak wood looks even more beautiful with the right finish.

Properties of Teak Wood:

Appearance: Golden or medium brown
Durability: Highly durable
Hardness (Janka): 1,070 lbf (4,740 N)
Average Dried Weight: 40.9 lbs/ft3 (655 kg/m3)
Workability: Fairly easy to work with
Cost: High

What is Eucalyptus Wood?

Eucalyptus is a hardwood found in Australia and some other regions around the globe. It is commonly used as a low-cost alternative to teak wood because of its easy availability and sustainability. Eucalyptus is almost as durable as teak and also very strong. It is moderately resistant to moisture and insects. The reddish-brown color of Eucalyptus is slightly lighter than teak. Also, the wood is less expensive.

Eucalyptus has a faster growth rate than teak and is considered a sustainable choice. It might be prone to warping and cracking if not handled properly. Sealing the wood ensures a long life for your Eucalyptus project. It is easy to work with, cut and paint and looks charming after a proper finish.

Eucalyptus wood specifications:

Appearance: Reddish-brown to cream
Durability: Fairly durable
Hardness (Janka): 3,730 lbf (16,590 N)
Average Dried Weight: 70.6 lbs/ft3 (1,130 kg/m3)
Workability: Fairly easy to work with
Cost: Cheaper than teak

Both teak and Eucalyptus are considered suitable for outdoor use, but Eucalyptus might need more frequent maintenance than teak.

Now that you know the basic details and properties of teak wood and Eucalyptus wood, let’s talk about the differences between the two.

Teak vs Eucalyptus

Both teak and Eucalyptus have their respective pros and cons, which we will discuss in detail here in terms of their respective properties, strength, appearance, durability, availability, price, and uses.

Appearance

Teak and Eucalyptus both are visually appealing woods. Teak has a warm, attractive, golden-brown hue that darkens over time. It has a fine grain and the natural oils of teak give it a classic elegance, which is why it is a preferred wood for luxury furniture.

Eucalyptus, on the other hand, features a lighter, reddish-brown colour with interlocking grain. The unique rustic charm is coupled with visible patterns on the surface of freshly sawn timber. Its appearance is more casual with a natural appeal, which makes it a favoured choice for outdoor projects or modern designs that reflect a natural aesthetic.

Strength & Durability

Teak is famous for its outstanding strength and durability. It is a very hard, dense wood with a tight grain structure and natural oils that make it remarkably resistant to rot, decay, and insects. Teak is well-protected against moisture and can withstand harsh weather conditions without decaying, making it a perfect choice for outdoor applications.

Eucalyptus is also a strong and dense wood but it is no match to teak in terms of durability. It may require additional treatment and need to be sealed to enhance its durability and resistance to insects and moisture when used in outdoor projects. The wood is perfect for indoor furniture or covered outdoor areas.

Workability

Teak and Eucalyptus offer distinct workability characteristics. Teak is generally easy to work with but its high oil and silica content can blunt tools. It is easy to cut and shape but glueing can be difficult due to oils. However, teak is exceptionally stable and can hold nails, screws and carvings very well, which makes it a superb choice for artwork.

Eucalyptus is moderately dense and hard, but it is easy to work with. It is particularly favoured for DIY projects due to its good workability. The wood is easier to cut and shape and doesn’t have a blunting effect like teak. It is not very stable though and drying can sometimes result in warping and cracking.

Lifespan

Teak is one of the best woods in terms of lifespan. The wood is known to last generations owing to its outstanding durability. With proper care, teak furniture and items can survive for decades, or even centuries. The wood is naturally resistant to decay and insects and doesn’t rot at all, which helps it live very long.

Eucalyptus is a durable wood but doesn’t have a life as long as teak. The wood is only moderately resistant to decay and insects. However, with proper treatment and sealing, it can be made to survive multiple decades.

Maintenance & Care

As a highly stable and durable wood, Teak requires fairly low maintenance. Like any other wood, it can be cleaned easily. Polishing every few years will ensure a very long life for your teak furniture. The golden-brown colour of teak naturally ages to an attractive silver-grey patina, which looks even more attractive to some. However, you can retain the original colour of teak by applying a good-quality stain.

Eucalyptus is not as durable as teak wood and requires more attention and care. It needs proper sealing to protect against moisture and UV rays when used outside. Moreover, it must be polished regularly to maintain its natural appearance. Without proper care, Eucalyptus can start deteriorating when exposed to outdoor environments.

Availability & Cost

Teak has always been a very popular wood with great demand, which is why the availability of teak wood has been a concern lately. Due to sustainability concerns, teak is now subject to stricter regulations, which has affected its availability and price. It is now among the most expensive woods in the world.

In contrast, Eucalyptus is more easily available due to its faster growth and average demand. It is also among the least expensive hardwoods. It’s often used as a cost-friendly alternative to teak.

Sustainability

Sustainability is definitely a concern when buying teak. Due to overharvesting over the years, teak is now subject to stricter regulations and can be difficult to find or import. Most of the teak you find comes from FSC-certified plantations, but illegally harvested teak is also quite common.

Eucalyptus is a sustainable and eco-friendly wood that is mostly derived from FSC-certified plantations and forests.

Uses

Teak and Eucalyptus both have a wide range of applications. Teak is a versatile wood owing to its high durability and timeless appearance, which make it suitable for various high-end applications, including indoor and outdoor furniture, cabinetry and construction. It is also perfect for outdoor and marine applications including boatbuilding, yacht decks, garden decks, and architectural elements.

Eucalyptus is an affordable and beautiful wood which can be used as an alternative to teak in some projects. Common uses include casual outdoor furniture, indoor furniture, decking, fencing, and paper production.

Teak vs Eucalyptus : Conclusion

As a woodworker, if you need to choose between teak and Eucalyptus and budget and availability are not an issue, then you must definitely go with teak, which is more beautiful and durable than Eucalyptus. However, if you are unable to find teak in your area or have a restricted budget, Eucalyptus is an almost equally great option, which looks awesome with a good finish.

Looking for a reliable teak wood supplier near you? Contact Cameroon Timber Export SARL to buy high-quality teak hardwood, timber or boards in custom sizes with doorstep delivery all over the world.

Wood carving refers to the practice of carving an ornamental or scriptural figure out of wood using specific tools and skills.

There are hundreds of species, out of which only a few are suitable for carving. Timber species that are considered best for carving usually have a closed or dense grain and do not split or crack easily. These include hardwoods like oak, black walnut, aspen, and basswood and some softwoods like white pine and cedar.

Whether you’re looking for the best wood for carving or want to know about the things to look for in a carving timber, here’s everything you need.

Note: Cameroon Timber Export SARL is a leading provider and exporter of hardwoods, softwoods and timber around the world. We deal in various kinds of timber species. Check out our website for details.

Characteristics for Optimal Wood Carving

Wondering what to look for when buying carving timber? Here are the most common properties of wood that can produce amazing results.

Hardness – Timber intended to be used for carving must have a moderate hardness so that they can be cut and carved easily. Closed and straight grain are preferred. Softwoods are easier to carve and shape and are preferred by beginners.

Durability – Durability is an important factor. The timber must be strong and stable and able to withstand intricate work without damage.

Resistance to insects, splitting and cracking – The timber should ideally be resistant to insect attack so the wood doesn’t damage for a long time even when used in the open.

Workability – It should be easy to work with and open to intricate details. It should not split or crack easily.

Density – Carving woods with hands and chisels must be softer with low to moderate density. Wood with higher density may require the use of power tools.

Attractive colour – Finally, the timber should be attractive with colours ranging from dark brown to black. Light-coloured woods should be easy to paint or stain.

Many carvers and woodworkers choose green or fresh lumber, because green wood is soft and easy to carve. But it also has some disadvantages which you should know about before using green timber.

Green Wood Vs. Dried Wood Carving

Green wood refers to timber that has been freshly cut from a tree. It has not dried yet. Due to the high moisture content in the green wood, it is rather soft, which makes it easy to carve.

Should you use green lumber for carving?

Well, yes and no. There are both advantages and disadvantages to using freshly cut timber.

In terms of pros, green wood is easier to carve than dried wood, is somewhat resistant to splitting, has great workability and enhanced grain visibility, and is easily and readily accessible.

In terms of cons, it might be weaker and less durable due to the higher moisture content, takes a long time to dry, is prone to cracking and checking, and might decay sooner than expected.

Which are the Best Wood for Carving?

Whether you are doing wood carving as a hobby or as a profession, it helps to know about the various properties of different kinds of timber. While almost all woods can be carved, not all are easy or convenient. Here are some of the best wood types perfect for carving:

African Blackwood

African Blackwood is one of the hardest and densest woods in the world. It is known for its outstanding strength and stability, which make it suitable for carving. It has a fine texture and a beautiful dark appearance, which make African Blackwood carvings look incredible even without painting. It can be polished to a smooth, attractive finish. The examples include statues, bowls, wine glasses, utensils, tool handles, sculptures, spoons, and more.

The wood is however difficult to work with due to its high density. African hardwood is also very expensive and difficult to find because it grows slowly and only in limited regions.

Ebony

Ebony is another very hard and high-quality wood that produces outstanding results. However, like African blackwood, ebony wood is also very hard to work with and may need power tools for efficient carving. It is also an expensive timber due to high demand and low availability and is used only in premium works. It is a smooth and beautiful timber, almost fully black with a stunning texture, which works well even without polishing.

Butternut

Butternut, also known as white walnut, is another popular hardwood for carving. Despite being hardwood, it’s rather soft and has a low density with typically straight grain. Carving blanks are easily available and inexpensive. It is most commonly used by beginners. It is brownish-coloured and shares properties with walnut wood. It’s only moderately durable and prone to attack by worms. The timber is fairly easy to work with and carves nicely. It also polishes rather well.

Oak

Oak is a well-known hardwood used mainly for furniture. But it’s also commonly used for carving because of its incredible strength and sturdiness. Oak is a durable wood with a beautiful appearance and a well-defined grain, which makes it a fine wood for carving. Oak timber is usually carved into furniture, kitchen items, and tool handles.

Black Walnut

Black walnut is a popular hardwood and a common but expensive choice for wood carving. It’s a strong and durable timber and has an awesome dark appearance that goes nicely with any interior design. It’s a really hard and dense wood with good resistance to splitting and cracking when being carved, but it can be difficult to work with and may require sharp tools or power tools for carving. Black walnut is used for everything, from furniture to interior, millwork, & cabinets. The carved timber looks awesome, even better with polishing.

Basswood (Linden)

Basswood is a hardwood that is soft with a fine texture and is fairly easy to work with, which makes it perfect for carving. The dried timber is strong and stable and also very light to handle. Its pale, light colour makes the wood easy to paint and colour. Basswood is considered one of the best choices for wood carving beginners because it’s easy to work with, cut and carve. It has been used for wood carving for ages. It is also less expensive than alternatives like ebony and also easily available. Basswood is mainly used for making the carved parts of musical instruments, guitars, and electric basses.

Aspen

Aspen is a soft hardwood just like basswood and butternut. It’s easy to carve with beautiful detailing. The white colored timber has a straight grain, which makes carving easy and prominent. The timber is also favoured by beginners because it is cheap and easily available. Aspen wood blacks can be found at your local hobby shop easily. If you want to buy in bulk, look for a wholesaler.

Softwoods for Wood Carving

Softwoods are favoured over most hardwoods because they being soft are easier to carve and work with. However, not all softwoods are ideal for carving because carving wood must also have good stability and some durability. A number of softwoods, including white pine and cedar are considered the best carving wood.

White pine is particularly suitable for beginners. It is soft with a light cream colour and a medium grain. The timber holds details well, which is crucial for carving. It’s particularly preferred for round carving, relief carving, and whittling. Chip carving is not recommended. Cedar is a strong and durable softwood used for carving. It has good workability and is easy to handle.

Conclusion – Choosing the Best Wood for Carving

The right type of carving wood also depends on the carver and their method of carving. There are so many options available that you can try multiple woods in order to find what best suits your style and needs.

If you want to buy timber online at the best price, please visit our official website to explore our wide range of softwood and hardwood species. All our wood is sustainably-sourced and available in various sizes and is ready to ship worldwide. Contact us today for a free quote.

Blockboard and plywood are two popular types of engineered wood and two of the most commonly used alternatives to solid timber.

The major difference between plywood and blockboard is their structure or how they are constructed. In this article, we explore everything there is to know about the difference between the two.

Because of their similar appearance and uses, people often get confused between blockboard vs plywood. The two types of engineered wood are very different from each other in terms of core structure, properties, and applications.

About Plywood

It is probably the most popular type of engineered timber. It is formed by laying thin layers of plies onto each other, usually with their grain rotated up to 90°. The wood layers are joined using glue and high pressure to form a strong panel.

About Blockboard

Also called board or ply board, it is a type of engineered wood that is made by arranging & joining small blocks or pieces of wood, usually softwood, edge-to-edge between two thin solid layers (veneers) using glue and high pressure to form a strong board.

As you may have already understood, plywood contains plies while a blockboard contains wooden blocks or strips.

Blockboard vs Plywood

Aspect	Blockboard	Plywood
Composition	Core of wood strips sandwiched between veneer layers.	Thin wood veneer layers glued together at right angles.
Strength and Rigidity	Generally less strong and rigid.	Typically stronger and more rigid.
Weight	Lighter due to the hollow core.	Heavier due to denser layers.
Common Uses	Doors, partitions, and lightweight furniture.	Cabinetry, flooring, and construction.
Screw Holding Capacity	Lower due to the softer core.	Better screw holding capacity.
Warping and Bowing	More prone to warping, especially in humidity.	Resists warping better.
Cost	Generally more cost-effective.	Can be more expensive.
Surface Finish	May require additional finishing work.	Typically smoother, requiring less finishing.
Thickness Options	Available in various thicknesses with variable core thickness.	Available in a wide range of thicknesses with consistent core thickness.

There are many other differences between the two based on manufacturing, appearance, properties, grades, uses, and cost.

Manufacturing/Structure

Ply contains an odd number (3, 5, …) of thin layers called plies or veneers which are combined together using strong glue and high pressure. The wood layers are arranged such that their grain is at a cross-section. It can have 3 or more layers depending on the thickness required.

A blockboard contains small wooden blocks or strips and two or more veneers. The wooden blocks are arranged edge-to-edge between the veneers and glued under high pressure to form a board with veneers on both sides.

Strength & Durability

Blockboards are generally less strong than because their core is made of softwood while plywood is made from veneers. They are also less durable. However, they are stronger and more durable than MDF and particleboard. There may be gaps between timber blocks in a blockboard.

Plywood is very strong and moderately durable. It can withstand moderate loads. It is dense and uniform and have no caption in the core. Higher-grade plywoods are stronger and more durable. Some are even resistant to fire.

Ease of Work

It is generally lighter than plywood because the core is made of softwood. It is also easy to work with, transport and handle. It is also easier to cut. It holds screws and nails really well, which is why it is used in applications where the wood’s screw-holding capacity is important.

Ply is dense and heavy as it is made of hardwood veneers. It can be slightly difficult to carry around. However, it is equally easy to work with, though it can be difficult to cut but holds screws really well.

Blockboards can be painted, finished and laminated to achieve the desired look. Ply too is easy to paint and laminate. Both come in laminated options also.

Water Resistance

Because blockboards have gaps in their cores, they can absorb and retain moisture, causing the wood to damage or decay over time. Water-resistant boards are also available. They are made by using BWP Grade (Boiling Water Proof) resin.

Not all plywoods are resistant to moisture or water. Only BWR or higher grade (marine ply) can withstand water and can be used in places like kitchens and bathrooms.

They are better than blockboards in terms of moisture-resistant properties.

Bending or Sagging

Plywood tends to bend when used as long pieces. Blockboards, on the other hand, are more rigid and will not bend even when used as lengthy boards or panels. Moreover, long plywood panels may start sagging over time.

Warping/Cracking

Blockboards have excellent dimensional stability and don’t warp or crack easily. Plywood is also resistant to warping and cracking.

Edge-splitting while cutting

They are easy to cut and do not split on edges.

Plywood can be difficult to cut owing to its higher density. It also splits and splinters on the edges while cutting.

Sizes

Both comes in a variety of sizes. Grades are assigned to them based on their physical properties and other criteria.

The most common size for Ply is 8 (l) x 4 (w) ft. (2449 x 1219 mm), but it also comes in other sizes, including 8 x 3 ft, 7×4 ft, and 7 x 3 ft. It comes in a range of thicknesses, from 3 mm to up to 25 mm.

Blockboards are also available in a variety of sizes, including 8 x 4 ft., 7×4 ft, and more. The thickness of sheets ranges from 16mm to 25mm.

Grades

The four most common types or grades of ply are A, B, C, and D, with A being the highest-quality wood and D being the lowest-quality. A-grade is the best in terms of appearance, physical strength & durability. It’s also the most expensive type of plywood.

In commercial use, plywood grades are assigned as follows:

• MR Grade (Moisture-resistant grade) – It’s made up of hardwood timber with urea and formaldehyde resin.
• BWR Grade (Boiling water-resistant grade) – Water-resistant plywood made using hardwood timber with phenol and formaldehyde adhesive and synthetic plastic resin glues
• BWP Grade (Boiling water-proof grade) – Marine-grade (waterproof) plywood made with undiluted formaldehyde and phenol resin.
• FR Grade (fire-retardant grade) – It is chemically treated to resist or contain the flames when burnt.
• Flexible Grade – This type is flexible and can be bent for making curved furniture.

Similar to plywood, blockboards also have different types, including MR grade, BWP grade, and BWR grade.

Cost Analysis

The cost of plywood depends on its grade, size, and thickness. Top grades such as BWR, BWP, and FR are the most expensive.

Blockboard is comparatively less expensive however, Marine-grade boards can be costlier.

Blockboard vs Plywood : Uses

Blockboard and plywood can be used interchangeably in most projects. But keep their respective properties in mind when using them in your project.

Ply is stronger and more durable, but it’s also heavier and can be slightly difficult to work with.

Both are suitable for making furniture, beds, chairs, tables, wardrobes, etc. Unlike plywood, long panels of blockboard do not sag, which makes it a better choice for making long wall panels, doors, bookshelves, tabletops, benches, panels, flush doors, and partitions. Blockboards can provide better insulation against sound and heat than plywood and are, therefore, used for making partitions.

Plywood furniture is stronger and lasts longer than blockboard furniture. It’s a moderately durable material and can be used for exterior construction, though it can get damaged by water. It is commonly used for making furniture, cabinets, and interior trim.

How Blockboard and Plywood Fare Over the Years?

Plywood works best in dry environments and indoors, though water-resistant grade it can also be used in exterior projects. If maintained properly, it can easily last up to 50 years or more. Use only marine-grade for kitchens, bathrooms and other water-prone places.

Blockboard is less strong and durable than plywood, but it can still last a few decades when maintained and protected correctly. Moreover, interior grades blockboards should be kept away from moisture.

Conclusion

Ply and blockboard have different properties and are suitable for different purposes. For projects where long wood panels are required, blockboard is a better choice than plywood. It’s also easier to work with and can resist sound better. Plywood is stronger and is preferred for heavy-duty applications and furniture for homes and offices.

Make sure to do your research to choose the best between plywood and blockboard based on your specific requirements and budget. Need help? Contact Cameroon Timber Export SARL to consult with a specialist woodworker. Or you can visit our official website to choose from over 40 timber species and buy timber online at a wholesale price with home delivery worldwide.

In the vast world of woodworking, the allure of exotic woods extends beyond the familiar classics. Journey with us as we explore the characteristics, origins, and diverse applications of 16 remarkable exotic wood types, each with its own distinct charm. From the dense elegance of African Blackwood to the captivating patterns of Zebrawood, this guide will unravel the secrets behind some of the most sought-after exotic woods.

What is Exotic Wood?

According to Google, the term “exotic” means something “unusual or interesting because it comes from a different country or culture.”

Exotic can refer to something that is different or rare but also interesting or beautiful.

These are rare and beautiful timber species found in different parts of the world. Most of these are hardwoods that originate from tropical regions.

Exotic wood can also refer to species that is not native to a particular country and is imported from a foreign, usually distant, country.

One thing common in almost all exotic wood types is that they are scarce. This is because these are usually concentrated in a single location or region. Exotic hardwoods are also generally very beautiful, durable and strong.

16 Different Rare Wood Types & Their Properties

1. African Blackwood

Known for its jet-black color and dense, fine grain, African Blackwood hails from the dry regions of Africa. This prized wood is a favorite among woodwind instrument makers due to its excellent tonal qualities. It’s also used in crafting high-end furniture and intricate wood carvings, showcasing its exceptional workability and natural beauty.

The timber is very durable in terms of decay resistance. It is usually difficult to work with and is very expensive. Common uses include bodies for musical instruments, tool handles, carving, etc.

2. Anigre

Anigre, originating from tropical Africa, is celebrated for its pale yellow to pinkish-brown hue and straight grain. With a fine texture and lustrous finish, it’s a preferred choice for cabinetry, veneers, and high-end furniture. Anigre’s versatility and subtle elegance make it a staple in both contemporary and traditional designs.

3. Balsa

While Balsa is often associated with lightweight model airplanes, its versatility extends beyond the skies. Native to South America, Balsa is exceptionally light and easy to work with, making it ideal for applications where weight is a crucial factor. Despite its lightweight nature, Balsa maintains surprising strength, making it suitable for various projects, including crafting models, prototypes, and even some furniture components.

4. Bubinga

With its varying colors, bold grain patterns, and wavy textures, Bubinga stands out as a captivating wood species from central Africa. Ranging from pinkish-red to reddish-brown, Bubinga finds its place in cabinetry, fine furniture, and musical instruments, offering both visual appeal and acoustic excellence.

5. Black Ebony

Synonymous with luxury and sophistication, Black Ebony boasts a deep black color and a smooth, polished finish. Originating from Africa and Southeast Asia, this dense and finely-textured wood is prized for its use in ornamental carvings, high-end furniture, and musical instruments. The stark contrast it creates when paired with lighter woods adds a touch of timeless elegance.

6. Cumaru

Known as Brazilian Teak, Cumaru is a hardwood native to South America. Its rich, reddish-brown color and impressive durability make it a popular choice for outdoor decking, flooring, and even tool handles. Cumaru’s resistance to insects and decay ensures its longevity, making it an excellent investment for outdoor projects.

7. Jatoba (Brazilian Cherry)

Often referred to as Brazilian Cherry, Jatoba originates from the Americas and features a warm, reddish-brown color with dark streaks. This robust and durable wood is commonly used in flooring, furniture, and even heavy construction due to its resistance to wear and tear. Its natural luster and vibrant hue add a touch of warmth to any space.

8. Black Limba (Frake)

Native to West Africa, Black Limba, also known as Frake, is admired for its light color and dark streaks, creating a unique contrast. Used in cabinetry, fine furniture, and veneers, Black Limba’s distinctive appearance and workability make it a favorite among designers seeking a blend of elegance and character.

9. African Mahogany

African Mahogany, originating from tropical Africa, showcases a reddish-brown color that deepens over time. With its straight grain and medium texture, it is a popular choice for furniture, cabinetry, and veneers. African Mahogany’s stability and workability contribute to its widespread use in both classic and modern designs.

10. Makore

Hailing from West Africa, Makore features a pink to reddish-brown color with a fine, even texture. This hardwood is commonly employed in high-quality furniture, cabinetry, and architectural millwork. Makore’s versatility and resistance to decay make it a reliable choice for various interior applications.

11. Merbau

Originating from Southeast Asia and the Pacific, Merbau is renowned for its rich, dark brown to reddish-brown color and distinctive grain patterns. This hardwood is favored for outdoor decking, flooring, and boat building due to its durability and resistance to pests and decay. Merbau’s natural oils contribute to its longevity in harsh environments.

12. African Padauk

African Padauk, with its striking orange to deep red color, is native to tropical Africa. This hardwood is highly valued for its stability and vibrant appearance, making it a popular choice for fine furniture, flooring, and decorative veneers. African Padauk’s ability to add warmth and character to any project sets it apart in the world of exotic woods.

13. Rosewood

The term “Rosewood” encompasses several species, each prized for its rich, reddish-brown hues and intricate grain patterns. Originating from various parts of the world, Rosewood is a favored choice for high-end furniture, musical instruments, and ornamental carvings. Its natural oils contribute to a polished finish, enhancing its visual appeal.

14. Sapele

Native to tropical Africa, Sapele features a lustrous, reddish-brown color with a distinctive ribbon-like grain pattern. This hardwood is commonly used in cabinetry, flooring, and furniture, offering both durability and a timeless aesthetic. Sapele’s versatility and workability make it a reliable choice for a range of interior applications.

15. Wenge

Native to tropical Africa, Sapele features a lustrous, reddish-brown color with a distinctive ribbon-like grain pattern. This hardwood is commonly used in cabinetry, flooring, and furniture, offering both durability and a timeless aesthetic. Sapele’s versatility and workability make it a reliable choice for a range of interior applications.

16. Zebrawood

Zebrawood, native to West Africa, earns its name from the bold dark stripes resembling a zebra’s pattern. With a pale golden-yellow color and dark brown streaks, Zebrawood is a visually striking choice for decorative veneers, furniture, and flooring. Its unique appearance adds an exotic touch to interior spaces.

Some other woods such as Ipe, Lignum Vitae, Pink Ivory, and Purple Heart are also considered exotic timber for their unique appearance and/or strength.

Where To Buy Different Exotic Wood Types Online?

Now that you know all about the top types of exotic timber, I hope you’re ready to order your first exotic timber. Whichever type of timber you need in whatever quantity and size, we can make it available for you.

CameroonTimberExportSarl is a top manufacturer and supplier of African exotic hardwoods. We export our products to many countries, including but not limited to UAE, Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, Brazil, Italy, the U.K., Germany, and more. Contact us if you need help choosing the right exotic timber for your project.

Spruce and cedar are two of the popular types of softwood. Here’s everything you need to know about the differences between spruce and cedar wood. Softwoods are procured from conifer evergreen trees. Both spruce and cedar trees look similar but have minor differences. In this article, we will discuss the difference between spruce vs cedar based on appearance, physical properties, and uses.

Did you know both cedar and spruce trees are popular choices for Christmas trees?

What is Cedar Wood?

Cedar is a wood in the genus Cedrus of the family Pinaceae (pine family). There are more than 40 species in this family. Cedar wood has many types – Eastern Red Cedar, Northern White Cedar, Cyprus Cedar, and Western Red Cedar – found all over the world.

The colour of cedar may range from light yellowish to reddish brown, depending on the species. It is a durable wood with good resistance to decay and termites. It is commonly used in exterior applications for building posts, piles, fences, shingles, railroad ties, and outdoor furniture.

Despite being a softwood, cedar is strong, hard and very durable, even more than some hardwoods.

What is Spruce Wood?

Spruce is a softwood with many varieties. Norway Spruce, which is one of the most popular species of spruce wood, is native to Northern and Central Europe. It is creamy white with yellow or red streaks and visible knots.

Unlike Cedar, Spruce is not a very strong or durable wood. In fact, it is very soft and almost non-resistant to decay. However, spruce timber is very easy to work with. It is also easily available and costs far less than popular wood species. It is extensively used in the paper industry and as a construction lumber for making crates, millwork, and soundboards for musical instruments.

Appearance & Identification

Spruce trees are easy to identify by their conical shape. The shape is nearly perfectly conical, especially when the trees are young. They have needles in place of leaves. The spruce needles are prickly and stiff. The tree can also be identified by its cones. The bark is usually thin and flaky.

The colour of the spruce is creamy white or yellowish, depending on the species. It usually has light yellow or red streaks on its sawn surface. The texture of spruce wood is fine and even and the grain is usually straight.

Cedar trees also have a conical shape. The needles are blue-green and the cones are large and shaped like a barrel. The tree bark is brown-reddish and the branches are short and fully covered by needles.

Cedar has a yellowish or reddish-brown heartwood, sometimes with a violet hue in species like the Eastern Red Cedar. It has darker steaks and stripes on the sawn surface. The texture is very fine and even and the grain is straight. Knots are common on the surface.

Both spruce and cedar trees are flowerless. They reproduce through their seed-bearing cones.

Workability

As a softwood with low density and hardness, spruce is fairly easy to work with. However, the presence of knots can sometimes create problems when cutting. It glues and finishes well. Staining can be difficult due to closed pores; using a toner or gel stain might solve the problem.

Cedar is also easy to work with because of its straight grain and average density. Knots can sometimes be difficult to deal with. The high oil and silica content of cedar can cause dulling of cutters. It glues and finishes well and can also be used without staining or a finish.

Durability & Strength

Cedar wood produces a special oil which makes it resistant to decay and rot. Most of the cedar species are rated as durable. It is a relatively strong and stable material which weighs less than most hardwoods and is easy to handle. Aromatic Red Cedar requires no pre-treatment when used outside or in ground contact applications because of its natural resistance to insects and decay.

Red Cedar has a 900 lbf Janka score, which makes it a really hard and strong wood. It has 530 kg/m3 average dried weight or density.

With a 380 lbf Janka rating (Norway Spruce), spruce is among the softest woods in the world. The density or average dried weight is about 405 kg/m3. This also means that the wood is easy to handle and transport. It is not a durable wood and is prone to damage by decay and insects.

Availability & Price

As a softwood species, spruce has a high growth rate. Construction-grade spruce, which has high demand, is easy to find and is usually inexpensive. It is found in many parts of Europe and the United States and can be imported as well. Spruce for instruments, such as German Spruce, is not as easily available and can cost significantly more than common spruce types.

Cedar is usually more expensive than spruce due to higher demand because of its outstanding physical properties. Large, knot-free boards are not very common and can be expensive. Smaller boards are easily available at a moderate price.

Spruce vs Cedar : Uses

Cedar Wood Uses

Cedar wood is less expensive than most hardwoods, which makes it a favourite choice of woodworkers. It is a hard, strong, and durable wood which is particularly favoured for outdoor applications, including outdoor furniture.

Cedar has a natural, spicy scent, which acts as an insect repellent, which is why it is often used for making linings for chests and closets. Cedar is also a good construction material and is used for making posts, beams, fences, decks, etc. Cedar wood can absorb moisture and sweat and leaves a spicy scent, which is why it is often used for making shoe trees.

Other than that, cedar is also used in many interior applications, including millwork, interior furniture, cabinets, plywood, and more. Because of its outstanding acoustic properties, cedar wood is also used for making soundboards for various musical instruments. It is also used for carvings and to make small specialty items such as bows and pencils.

Spruce Wood Uses

Spruce is not as strong or hard as cedar. As a softwood with a really soft structure, it is primarily used for making paper. Due to its long fibres, paper made from spruce wood is strong. It is also commonly used for making crates and boxes for storage.

In the construction industry, spruce wood is used for making furniture, shelves, cabinets, wooden aircraft, etc. It must only be used in indoor applications, as the wood is not at all resistant to weathering.

One of the main uses of spruce is for making soundboards for pianos and as tone wood in musical instruments such as cellos, guitars, and more.

Other than the wood itself, other parts of a spruce tree have different uses. Spruce oil, for instance, is used for making spruce beer. The needles of spruce are used for making tea. It is also used as a decorative tree, including Christmas trees.

Spruce vs Cedar : Summary

• Spruce is lighter in colour than cedar wood, which is yellow-reddish.
• Spruce is not as strong or durable as cedar, which has excellent resistance to decay and weathering.
• Original Cedar is found in the Himalayan regions while spruce is common in temperate regions.
• Spruce is suitable only for indoor applications while cedar can also be used for outdoor projects such as outdoor construction.
• Cedar has a distinct, spice-like scent which repels insects. Spruce doesn’t have a distinct smell.
• Spruce is edible and its parts such as needles, bark, and sap can be used for different purposes. Cedar is not edible.
• Cedar oil is prized for its medicinal properties. It is used for making a variety of medicines. Spruce doesn’t have medicinal properties.

Where to buy Spruce Wood or Cedar Timber online?

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