How to Buy Oak Lumber

Vertical Oak Lumber

Oak is one of the most elegant types of wood to have. It is more expensive than most kinds of wood because it is strong and beautiful. It comes in several shades of brown and red. Many people choose oak tables and chairs, for example, for its appearance and for the mood it brings to a home. In order to buy oak, you will want to look at several aspects of the wood before purchasing it.

Instructions

How to Buy Oak Lumber

1. Determine the reason for buying oak lumber. You'll look for different aspects if using oak for furniture or for a fence when buying the lumber.

2. Decide on the grade of oak. If the wood is going to be used for furniture, then you will want a good grade; for a fence, it isn't as important. Looking at the straightness of the wood and if it has splits at its ends will give you a good indication if the grade is good or not.

3. Look at the grain of the oak. How you will use the oak lumber will depend on what kind of grain you want. For example, if the oak is used for furniture, you will want a grain that is either flat or vertical. In order to tell the difference between the two, look at the rings on the lumber. If the rings are at less than 45 degrees, then it is flat grain; vertical is more than 45 degrees.

4. Search for knots in the oak wood. You will pay more for the lumber that doesn't have knots, but it is worth it, especially if you are using it for furniture. Knots are rings that are so deep into the wood that it tends to go through to the other side. As the oak ages, the knot can fall out and you will have a hole in your wood.

5. Ask the lumber yard if the oak lumber was kiln dried. This is very important if you are going to use the oak for furniture. Kiln drying will take the moistness out of the lumber and add durability. For a fence, it isn't as important to have the oak kiln dried because it will have a weather sealant added to it.

Tips & Warnings

• Be prepared to pay more than you would for other kinds of wood. Lumber yards charge more for oak because it can last a lifetime.

Resources

• www.artcecom.com