Understanding Wood Grades
The National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA) grades hardwood based on the amount of clear, defect-free wood that can be obtained from each board. Here's what you need to know:
- FAS (Firsts and Seconds): The highest grade, yielding 83.3% clear wood. Perfect for fine furniture and visible surfaces.
- Select: Similar to FAS but allows smaller boards. Great for most woodworking projects.
- No. 1 Common: Yields 66.7% clear wood. Suitable for projects where some character marks are acceptable.
- No. 2 Common: More economical option for painted projects or rustic designs.
Moisture Content Matters
One of the most critical factors in wood selection is moisture content. I always use a moisture meter to ensure boards are properly dried:
- Kiln-dried lumber: Should be 6-10% moisture content for indoor projects
- Air-dried lumber: May need additional drying time in your workshop
- Green lumber: Requires extensive drying and may not be suitable for precision work
Proper moisture content prevents warping, splitting, and joint failure after your project is complete.
Species Selection for Different Projects
Each wood species has unique characteristics that make it suitable for specific applications:
Oak (Red and White)
My go-to choice for furniture and flooring. Oak is durable, takes stain well, and has beautiful grain patterns. White oak is more water-resistant, making it ideal for bathroom vanities.
Maple (Hard and Soft)
Excellent for kitchen cabinets and cutting boards. Hard maple is one of the strongest domestic hardwoods, while soft maple is more budget-friendly for painted projects.
Cherry
Premium choice for fine furniture. Cherry darkens beautifully with age and has a smooth, consistent grain. It's my recommendation for heirloom pieces.
Walnut
The luxury option with rich chocolate tones. Walnut is stable, machines well, and creates stunning accent pieces.
Visual Inspection Checklist
When selecting boards, I always perform a thorough visual inspection:
- Grain direction: Look for straight, consistent grain patterns
- Defects: Identify knots, splits, and mineral stains
- Color consistency: Select boards with similar color tones
- Thickness variation: Ensure uniform thickness across the board
- Warping: Check for bow, cup, twist, or crook
Storage and Acclimation
Proper storage is crucial once you bring lumber to your workshop:
- Store boards flat with stickers between each layer for air circulation
- Allow 72 hours minimum for acclimation to your workshop environment
- Keep lumber away from direct sunlight and heat sources
- Maintain consistent temperature and humidity in your storage area
Budgeting for Quality
While quality hardwood represents a significant investment, it's important to remember that lumber typically accounts for only 20-30% of a project's total cost. Choosing premium materials ensures your craftsmanship shines and your project lasts for generations.
I always recommend buying 20% more lumber than calculations suggest. This accounts for defects, mistakes, and allows you to select the best pieces for visible surfaces.
Final Thoughts
Quality hardwood selection is both an art and a science. With experience, you'll develop an eye for exceptional boards that will elevate your woodworking projects. Remember, the extra time spent selecting quality lumber is always rewarded in the final result.
Whether you're building a family heirloom or a functional piece for everyday use, starting with properly selected hardwood ensures your craftsmanship will be appreciated for decades to come.
