Species

Contrary to many lumber yards that carry whatever is readily available, the selection process for the wood species we supply is based on three decades of building experience as well as advice from forestry professors and the Forest Products Laboratory.  We base our selections on qualitative analysis, architectural performance and species comparison research.

We have taken into account decay resistance, aesthetics, machinability, and other physical properties such as shrinkage coefficients, nail holding ability and susceptibility to splitting. Recognizing that wood is a special and important building material necessitates differentiating between species depending on application.  The first step to achieving a quality application is to use a quality wood.  The following is a list of species we mill along with brief history and physical characteristics for each.  Scroll down to read a brief history, ecology and building importance for each species.

BEAUTY & DURABILITY

Traditionally, white cedar has been used as an exterior siding material.  Early Americans found that white cedar buildings met the elements and proved themselves a match for sun, rain, and even blowing sand.  Along the rugged eastern seaboard today there are houses that were sided with white cedar more than a century ago, remarkable for their clean, handsome lines and sturdy structure.  During the first 50 years of this century the principal uses for white cedar included poles, wooden ware (tubs and barrels), and lumber as well as siding.  The lumber became mill stock for moldings, water tanks, fencing, and fine wooden boat construction.