Not many materials have the reputation oak wood does. Ships, barns, cathedrals and furniture, oak has been used in it all, and for good reason. Strength, beauty and longevity are the hallmarks of oak. It’s hard to find a better material for longevity. Especially for things that need to stand the test of time, oak is a great choice.
What Makes Oak Special?
OAK
Oak has dense hardwood with a distinctive grain. There are many shades of oak, all with warm, rich tones. It has a natural strength and resistance to rot and decay. The tannins help to protect oak. Old beams and doors that have oak grain can still be found in historic buildings across the UK.
It develops character over time. Weathering outdoors makes it soft and grey. Indoors it turns a deep, rich, colour and provides an attractive patina.
Where Is Oak Used?
Oak has many uses. It makes good floors, staircases, doors, shelves and furniture in the house. It makes good gates and benches in the garden, and a frame for raised beds, or to make a pergola. It even adds an attractive traditional touch to a barn, porch or car port when used as beams.
Oaks are very strong and have the ability to carry large loads without bending. For this reason, oak is a great candidate for structural work as well as decorative work.
Green Oak or Seasoned Oak?
Green oak is cut and still contains moisture, therefore, it is easier to work with. It has a greater strength and so it is used for large frames and beams. As it dries, it moves, creating small cracks, known as shakes. Green oak is used for internal structures, such as floors, furniture and interior joinery. Seasoned oak has most of the moisture extracted from it, and therefore is more stable.
Recognising the correct type will help you to avoid disappointment, and to be able to achieve the finished product to behave as intended.
Choosing the Right Grade
There are different grades of oak. The prime grade has the cleanest appearance with the fewest knots. This grade is suited for the construction of fine furniture and visible joinery. The rustic grades of oak have more knots, and other natural features. These grades are used for structures like beams, and shelves, as well as, garden structures.
Which is better depends on context. You can usually make a case for either, depending on design choices and what the piece will be used for.
Finishing and Care
Oak has a beautiful grain which can be enhanced by stains and oils, waxes or varnishes. Of these, oil is the easiest to maintain, especially if it’s on a floor or table, which is why it’s the most popular choice. Leaving oak outdoors untreated allows it to weather to a beautiful silver-grey. An exterior oil can maintain the colour if desired.
Oaks contain acids that can react with iron, resulting in dark stains. To avoid this, use stainless steel or galvanised fixtures. Indoors, spills should be cleaned up as soon as possible. Surfaces should also be re-oiled to keep them looking good.
Cost and Value
OAK, one of our more costly timbers, offers the best long term value. Oak lasts extremely well and requires little or no maintenance, so it rarely needs replacing. Items made from oak can be passed down from one generation to the next.
Sourcing Responsibly
Oak from managed woodland is a good choice, especially if it is certified. This ensures that trees are replanted after they are harvested. Home-grown British oak has a better carbon footprint than imported wood.
A Timeless Choice
Oak is a beautiful, long-lasting wood. It adds strength and beauty to anything from staircases to garden gates and dining tables. Choose the right type and grade of oak, and finish it the way you like, and your project will last for decades.