We know that lumber needs to be dried before using it in construction, and most of us know to ask for kiln dried lumber. (We do know that right? Please say yes) But did you know that not all kiln dried lumber is equal? Depending on where the lumber comes from, the moisture content of your kiln dried material may not be what you think it is. 6-8% is the accepted moisture content of kiln … [Read more...] about Kiln Dried May Not Mean What You Think It Means
African Mahogany
The Long and Winding Road of African Hardwood Export
We love African hardwoods. As regulation and grade inconsistencies rise for Mahogany coming out of South America, we are advising more and more of our customers to consider Mahogany alternatives from Africa like Khaya (African Mahogany), Sapele, and Utile (also known as Sipo). The availability of wider and longer African hardwood boards is much greater, the species are more durable and hold … [Read more...] about The Long and Winding Road of African Hardwood Export
Questions about Genuine Mahogany’s Future
As a woodworker and furniture maker I am a big fan of Genuine Mahogany. It carves, saws, and planes so easily and you can't beat the color and depth once finish is applied. However, it has been disconcerting to see how grade and availability have fallen off dramatically in the last year. South American Mahogany definitely isn't what it used to be. What is most upsetting is that much of this is not … [Read more...] about Questions about Genuine Mahogany’s Future
African Mahogany Shortage is Indicative of a Larger Global Issue
Before anyone gets too excited, there is not a shortage of African Mahogany (Khaya spp) due to over harvesting. There is still plenty in the forests and the species is not endangered at all. The shortage comes from a lack of people harvesting, sawing, and seasoning it. If you read my article about Poplar price increases then this article may give you some deja vu. In the last few weeks and … [Read more...] about African Mahogany Shortage is Indicative of a Larger Global Issue
Is There A Shortage on Thinner Exotic Lumber?
4/4 lumber is probably the most common lumber thickness we sell. Lately it seems that an increase in popularity of African exotic species like Sapele, Utile, and African Mahogany (Khaya) has run into shortages in 4/4 thicknesses. This is in no way an indication that these species have limited supply. In fact getting 8/4 and 12/4 lumber is no problem at all. These African trees are plentiful … [Read more...] about Is There A Shortage on Thinner Exotic Lumber?
