Wood Types

Cedar is a knotty wood which has a red-brown color with light streaks. Although a soft wood, cedar has good shock resistance and structural stability. This wood is highly resistant to decay and attack by insects, specifically termites. Cedar most often shows a thin layer of sapwood that is light brown or cream in color. The heartwood is typically a red to deep reddish brown that often has accentuating knots. Cedar's Janka rating = 900

Cherry

View examples

Cherry is one of the most naturally beautiful hardwoods and is often imitated. The natural coloring of this wood varies from light brown to dark reddish brown with an irregular wood grain. It looks excellent with a clear or light finish to accentuate its natural beauty. Many people will get a clear finish and allow it to darken naturally over time. Cherry Janka hardness rating = 950.

Elm (also known as American Elm, Soft Elm, White Elm)

The color of elm wood can vary substantially. The heartwood is light to medium reddish brown, and the paler sapwood is usually distinct. The grain interlocks with a somewhat coarse, very irregular and uneven texture. Elm Janka Hardness rating = 830

Hickory

This very strong and hard wood has a light brown/tan to reddish-brown color with a straight, indistinct grain. Hickory's beauty is best accented with a light or clear finish at a higher sheen/gloss. Not all of our woodworking furniture can be made in hickory wood. If you want an item in hickory but do not see it as an option, please contact us. Hickory Janka hardness rating = 1820.

Maple (also known as White Maple or Hard Maple) 

View examples

Maple is a strong, dense hardwood. Its color is light brown with a reddish cast, and the grain is usually straight. This is a premium wood. Not all woodworking furniture can be made in maple wood. If you want an item in maple but do not see it as an option, please contact us. Maple Janka hardness rating = 1450.

Rustic Cherry

View examples

Rustic Cherry has the natural accentuated characteristics of cherry wood, and it is common to see natural knots on the surface. This is the perfect choice for a natural rustic look. Color range includes white, brown, and deep red with brown flecks. Rustic Cherry Janka hardness rating = 950.

Rustic Hickory

Rustic Hickory is less refined than traditional hickory wood. With Rustic Hickory, the natural characteristics of hickory are intensified. Color ranges from light brown/tan to dark reddish-brown. Rustic Hickory Janka hardness rating = 1820.