The Basic Facts You Never Learned About Selecting Wood

Image of oak chair back from flickr.

First, decide what you are building.  According to the folks at Rino’s Woodworking:

This may seem like an obvious point but you must know what you are building before you select your wood. If your project requires durability and strength – like a dresser, table or molding – then you will need a suitable wood that is strong enough to take the load, such as maple or oak. On a sidenote, here is some information about oak molding for your further reading. If your project involves intricate wood carvings then a softer wood like poplar or pine might be in order. If your project is to be placed outdoors, then you will need a wood that can last out in the elements. Choose a wood like teak, that does not take a finish well, but its natural oils will protect it outside. You might also choose Mahogany wood which is used for projects requiring exposure to the elements like outdoor furnishings, deck chairs and tables.

Click through to learn a basic fact about wood type.

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