Oak

General Description

French Oak is sourced from most regions throughout the country, although Timbersource predominantly imports from the Burgundy and Dole regions and thus the majority of our stock retains a consistent golden brown colour, due in part to the duress and slower growth under which the trees are grown close to the Swiss border. Timbersource also stocks a small amount of 'Cats Paw / Pippy' Oak in 27mm and 54mm thicknesses this represents hedgerow grown Oak such as is native to the UK, generally a less well managed timber, but with some beautiful character is suitable for a range of different uses. A range of 'European' grades are available, for example, QFA square edge grade is the highest joinery / cabinet-making grade, QF1 allows for a small knot content, followed by QF2 etc etc. The logsawn grading is 'QB' such as QBA (Equating to QFA meaning the highest grade), QB1, QB2 and so on and so forth.

European Oak is one of the most durable and versatile species. Its natural tannin content enhances its durability. After fresh-sawing, as a process of drying, tannin can create patches of dark brown on the sawn face (which disappear when planed) or lighter variation as the tannin 'migrates'. The quarter-sawn boards have an interesting medullary ray visible on the surface, which is not only more stable but also aesthetically pleasing. We can select out quarter cut boardsat a premium for any purpose and we are also happy for customers to select their own boards.

Oak takes a long time to dry and is generally kiln dried in only 27mm - 80mm thicknesses. The exception being 100x100mm squares which we stock with a 27mm diameter lengthwise drilled-core which facilitates kilning.

Working Properties

  • Machinability varies form well to with moderate difficulty
  • Good for nailing and screwing, pre-boring recommended
  • Glues well
  • Stains, waxes and polishes well
  • Bends well when steamed
  • Oak dries very slowly with a marked tendency to split and check
  • Considerable risk of honeycombing if the drying is forced
  • Subject to a large shrinkage and moderate movement in performance

Physical Properties

  • High strength properties
  • Medium bending and crushing strength
  • Low stiffness and shock resistance

Durability

  • Durable

Main Uses

  • Construction
  • Furniture
  • Flooring
  • Architectural Joinery
  • Exterior Joinery
  • Mouldings
  • Doors
  • Kitchen cabinets
  • Panelling
  • Railway sleeper
  • Timber bridges
  • Barrel staves
  • Coffins and caskets