All natural woods used in the trade of woodworking can be categorized into two primary groups - that of hardwoods and softwoods. Although we all hear the terms hardwood and softwood, most do not realize the terms do not refer to the hardness or softness of the materials. The terms actually refer to the family of trees the woods are cut from - those being deciduous and coniferous.
Softwoods are actually from coniferous trees. These trees are characterized by remaining green year round. This includes fir, spruce, cedar and other varieties of trees. These are called softwoods. Deciduous species on the other hand, are those that do loose their leaves annually and include Birch, Oak, Walnut and Mahogany species and are all generically called hardwoods.
The unique nature of the grain patterns of hardwoods have traditionally dictated the use of hardwood for the manufacture of furnishings and household items. Softwoods on the other hand tend to be generally devoid of interesting grain patterns. Softwoods are normally harvested for use in many aspects of the housing sector.
All woods are of course natural materials and as such are affected by environmental changes including temperature and humidity. These factors can cause woods to expand, contract, twist and bend unless specific steps are taken to minimize the effects.
Further, the products and surfaces we are trying to manufacture are often not naturally suited to the size and shapes that the woods naturally grow in. To accomplish the required sizes and forms, the materials must be reformed with one or more of a number of joining techniques. Each of these techniques is designed to accomplish one or more of the following objectives:
- style,
- strength,
- machinability,
- counteracting natural warping effects,
- adaptation to shrinkage and expansion
These techniques also make use of various fasteners and special purpose glues and bonding agents.
Often it is found that a single piece of a given type of wood will not perform the intended function as well as a number of pieces formed together. For example, thin sheets of wood bonded together with the grains at right angles to each other can form a thicker piece with superior strength properties and resistance to splitting and warpage. This is called ply construction and can take the form of a number of layers for enhanced strength characteristics.
As beautiful as natural wood grains are, they are very vulnerable to damage and discoloration if not protected once the product is completed. To protect and even enhance the natural beauty, a number of finishing alternatives have been developed over the years. These range from oils and waxes to sealing paints and lacquer formulations and can be clear or shaded to modify the natural wood grain colors. Most common for high end wooden furniture pieces is a lacquer based finish that provides a uniform enhancement to the wood grain and also protects the wood surface, preventing contaminants such as moisture, dirt and oils from damaging the intended look of the wood surfaces. This fine lacquer finish also helps ensure a long lasting, beautiful finish.
The end result of forming, combining and processing the woods is a product that takes full advantage of the beauty and elegance of the natural woods and grains. And, with careful and sophisticated bonding and allowance for the natural changes of woods, the end product will provide reliable service and retain it's beauty and usefulness for many years!
By: GLBailey