Ash
Ash refers to the timber derived from trees of the Fraxinus genus. It is a hardwood species commonly found in North America, Europe, and Asia.
Appearance and Characteristics
Ash wood typically has a light to pale yellow color with a straight grain pattern. It has a coarse texture and a pronounced grain that can vary from straight to wavy. Ash is moderately heavy, with a weight ranging from approximately 3.1 pounds (1.41 kilograms) per board foot. It is known for its strength and durability.
Workability
Ash wood is highly workable and versatile. It is easy to machine, cut, shape, and sand, making it a popular choice for various woodworking applications. The wood stains, paints, and finishes well, allowing for different finishes and styles. Ash also has excellent shock resistance, making it a preferred choice for applications where impact resistance is important.
Uses in Woodworking
Ash wood is utilized in various woodworking projects, including:
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Furniture: Ash is a popular choice for crafting furniture, including chairs, tables, cabinets, and bed frames. Its strength and attractive grain pattern make it suitable for both structural and aesthetic components.
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Cabinetry: It is frequently used in cabinetry due to its durability and ability to hold fine details in designs.
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Sports Equipment: Ash is a preferred wood for sports equipment such as baseball bats, hockey sticks, and tool handles due to its strength and shock resistance.
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Flooring: It is used in hardwood flooring applications, providing a clean, bright appearance.
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Millwork: Ash is employed in millwork projects, including moldings, trim, and doors. Its pronounced grain adds character to architectural elements.
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Woodturning: Ash is a great choice for woodturning, allowing woodturners to create bowls, spindles, and other intricate turned items. Its workability and strength make it suitable for this application.
Durability
Ash wood is known for its durability and strength:
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Indoor Use: Ash performs exceptionally well for indoor applications. It is resistant to decay and insect attack, making it suitable for furniture, cabinetry, and millwork. Proper finishes and maintenance can further enhance its longevity.
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Outdoor Use: While Ash is not typically used in outdoor applications due to its susceptibility to moisture and weather, it may be used for short-term or protected outdoor projects.
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Bug/Insect and Rot Resistance: Ash is naturally resistant to insects and decay, ensuring its durability for indoor applications.
VARIATIONS AND OPTIONS
All lumber now ships surfaced on 2 sides, and ripped on 1 edge at a minimum. Surfacing is done to a 1/16th over nominal (+- .030). Also the option for a rip to width is now available for a premium price. Ripping is done on an industrial straight line/gang rip machine. While the rip will be consistent end to end, the fence may not always end up in the same spot between orders. Rip widths will be within 1/8th of an inch of stated widths.
4/4 will be surfaced to 13/16ths. 5/4 will be surfaced to 1 and 1/16th. 6/4 6/4 will be surfaced to 1 and 5/16ths. 8/4 will be surfaced to 1 and 13/16ths. 10/4 will be surfaced to 2 and 5/16ths. 16/4 will be surfaced to 2 and 13/16ths.