If you’re a woodworker or a furniture enthusiast, you might have heard of tiger oak wood. It’s a type of lumber that’s known for its distinctive grain pattern, which resembles the stripes of a tiger. But did you know that tiger oak wood is also called “quarter sawed oak”? In this article, we’ll explore why this lumber is referred to by two different names.
The answer lies in the way that tiger oak wood is produced. It’s made through a specific method of milling called quarter sawing, which involves cutting the log into quarters and then slicing it perpendicular to the growth rings. This results in lumber with a unique grain pattern that’s highly sought after in high-end applications. Because this milling process is so closely associated with the production of tiger oak wood, the two names have become interchangeable over time.
Definition of Tiger Oak Wood
Tiger oak wood is a type of lumber that is highly prized for its unique and striking appearance. It is also known as quarter sawn oak because of the way it is cut during the milling process. The process of quarter sawing involves cutting a log into quarters and then sawing it perpendicular to the growth rings. This results in lumber with a distinctive grain pattern that is highly sought after for use in high-end applications.
The term “tiger” refers to the dark, irregular stripes that run through the wood, which resemble the markings of a tiger. This pattern is created by the way the wood is cut during the quarter sawing process. The process is not limited to oak, and many other kinds of wood are quarter-sawn.
Tiger oak wood is commonly used in the production of furniture, cabinetry, and flooring. It is known for its durability and resistance to wear and tear. The distinctive grain pattern of tiger oak wood also makes it a popular choice for decorative applications.
Overall, tiger oak wood is a highly desirable type of lumber that is prized for its unique appearance and durability. If you are looking for a high-quality wood that will last for years to come, tiger oak wood is definitely worth considering.
Understanding Quarter Sawn Process
If you are curious about the term “quarter sawn oak” and wondering why it is called so, you need to understand the quarter sawn process. Quarter sawing is a technique used to cut a log into lumber. It is a process that results in lumber with a distinctive grain pattern that is often used in high-end applications where the appearance of the wood is an important consideration.
To understand the quarter sawn process, imagine a log cut into four quarters. Each quarter is then cut into pieces at a 45° angle to the growth rings. The resulting lumber has a straight grain pattern that is perpendicular to the face of the board. This creates a unique appearance that is highly sought after for its beauty and durability.
The quarter sawn process is not limited to oak. Many other types of wood can be quarter sawn, including maple, cherry, and walnut. However, oak is the most commonly used wood for this process.
One of the benefits of quarter sawn lumber is its stability. The straight grain pattern makes it less likely to warp or twist, which is important for applications where stability is crucial, such as flooring or furniture. Additionally, quarter sawn lumber tends to have a tighter grain pattern, which makes it more resistant to moisture and decay.
Overall, the quarter sawn process is a time-consuming and labor-intensive technique that produces lumber with a unique appearance and exceptional durability. It is a popular choice for high-end applications where the appearance and performance of the wood are of utmost importance.
Reason for the Alias
Tiger oak wood is also known as “quarter sawed oak” because of the specific milling process used to produce it. When logs are cut into lumber, there are two main ways to do it: plain sawing and quarter sawing.
Plain sawing is the most common method, in which the log is cut into planks by slicing it parallel to the growth rings. This method is quick and efficient, but it results in boards with a less uniform grain pattern and a tendency to warp and twist as they dry.
On the other hand, quarter sawing is a more time-consuming and expensive method that involves cutting the log into quarters and then slicing each quarter perpendicular to the growth rings. This produces boards with a more uniform grain pattern and greater stability, making them less likely to warp or twist.
The distinctive grain pattern produced by quarter sawing is what gives tiger oak wood its characteristic look, with a series of parallel lines or “rays” that resemble the stripes of a tiger. These rays are actually the medullary rays that run perpendicular to the growth rings of the tree, and they are more prominent in oak than in other woods.
In addition to its unique appearance, tiger oak wood is also prized for its strength, durability, and resistance to decay. It is commonly used in high-end applications such as furniture, cabinetry, and flooring, where its distinctive grain pattern adds visual interest and value.
Distinct Characteristics of Tiger Oak
Tiger oak, also known as quarter sawn oak, is a type of wood that has a unique and distinctive appearance. Here are some of the characteristics that set tiger oak apart from other types of wood:
- Grain Pattern: Tiger oak has a pronounced grain pattern that is often described as “tiger stripes.” This pattern is created by the way the wood is cut during the milling process, which involves cutting the log into quarters and then slicing it into boards. This method of milling creates a more consistent grain pattern and results in a more durable and stable wood.
- Flecking: In addition to the distinctive grain pattern, tiger oak also has a characteristic flecking that is caused by the medullary rays in the wood. These rays are more visible in quarter sawn wood and create a unique and eye-catching pattern that is highly sought after.
- Durability: Tiger oak is a very durable wood that is resistant to wear and tear. It is often used in high-end applications such as flooring, cabinetry, and furniture because of its strength and durability.
- Color: Tiger oak has a warm, golden color that is highly prized by woodworkers and designers. The color can vary depending on the age and species of the tree, but it is generally a rich, warm brown with golden undertones.
Overall, tiger oak is a beautiful and distinctive wood that has a unique appearance and exceptional durability. If you are looking for a high-quality wood for your next project, tiger oak is definitely worth considering.
Historical Context
Tiger oak, also known as quarter sawn oak, has been a popular choice for furniture and flooring for many years. The term “quarter sawn” refers to the way the oak log is cut into lumber. Rather than being cut straight through the center of the log, quarter sawing involves cutting the log into quarters and then cutting each quarter into boards. This method produces boards with a distinctive grain pattern that is highly prized in certain applications.
The technique of quarter sawing oak dates back to the Middle Ages, when it was used to produce planks for shipbuilding. Quarter sawn oak was prized for its strength and durability, which made it an ideal choice for the hulls of ships. As the demand for oak lumber grew, the technique of quarter sawing was adapted for use in furniture and flooring.
During the Arts and Crafts movement of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, quarter sawn oak became particularly popular. This was due in part to the movement’s emphasis on traditional craftsmanship and natural materials. Furniture makers and architects favored quarter sawn oak for its distinctive grain pattern and its ability to take on a rich, warm finish.
Today, quarter sawn oak is still a popular choice for high-end furniture and flooring. Its distinctive grain pattern and durability make it a favorite of designers and homeowners alike. Whether you are looking for a classic, traditional look or a more modern, contemporary style, quarter sawn oak is a versatile and beautiful choice.
Uses of Tiger Oak Wood
Tiger oak, also known as quarter sawn oak, is a popular type of wood used in various applications. Its unique grain pattern and durability make it a preferred choice for high-end furniture, cabinetry, and flooring.
Here are some common uses of tiger oak wood:
Furniture
Tiger oak is a popular choice for furniture makers due to its durability and distinctive grain pattern. It is commonly used to make dining tables, chairs, desks, and cabinets. The wood’s flecked pattern adds a unique touch of elegance to any piece of furniture.
Cabinetry
Tiger oak is also used in cabinetry for its durability and attractive appearance. It is commonly used for kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, and built-in bookshelves. The wood’s unique grain pattern adds character and texture to any space.
Flooring
Tiger oak wood is a popular choice for flooring due to its durability and resistance to wear and tear. It is often used in historic homes and buildings, as well as in new construction projects. The wood’s distinctive grain pattern adds visual interest and texture to any room.
Decorative Accents
Tiger oak wood is also used for decorative accents such as trim, molding, and paneling. Its unique grain pattern adds visual interest and texture to walls and ceilings, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
In conclusion, tiger oak wood is a versatile and durable material that can be used in a variety of applications. Its distinctive grain pattern and durability make it a popular choice for high-end furniture, cabinetry, flooring, and decorative accents.
Benefits of Tiger Oak Wood
Tiger oak wood, also known as quarter sawed oak, is a highly sought-after type of wood for furniture and flooring due to its unique grain pattern and durability. Here are some benefits of using tiger oak wood:
- Stability: The grain of quarter-sawn tiger oak wood is straighter than that of flat-sawn lumber, making it significantly more stable. This means that it is less likely to warp or twist over time, making it an ideal choice for high-end furniture and flooring.
- Durability: Tiger oak wood is known for its durability and resistance to wear and tear. It is a hardwood that can withstand heavy use and last for many years without showing signs of damage.
- Distinctive Grain Pattern: The distinctive grain pattern of tiger oak wood is what makes it so desirable. The wood features a unique pattern of “tiger stripes” that gives it a one-of-a-kind look that cannot be replicated with other types of wood.
- Versatility: Tiger oak wood can be used in a variety of applications, from flooring to cabinetry to furniture. It is a versatile wood that can be stained or painted to match any decor style.
- Increased Property Value: Adding tiger oak wood flooring or furniture to your home can increase its value and appeal to potential buyers. The unique and high-quality nature of tiger oak wood can make your home stand out in a crowded real estate market.
Overall, tiger oak wood is a valuable and versatile material that offers many benefits for those who choose to use it in their projects. Its stability, durability, unique grain pattern, and versatility make it a top choice for high-end furniture and flooring.
Drawbacks of Tiger Oak Wood
While tiger oak wood is a popular choice for high-end applications, it does come with some drawbacks that you should be aware of before using it.
Firstly, tiger oak wood is more expensive than other types of oak wood due to the specific method of milling called quarter sawing that is used to produce it. This can make it a less practical option for those on a tight budget.
Additionally, the unique grain pattern of tiger oak wood can make it difficult to match with other pieces of furniture or woodwork. This can be a problem if you are trying to create a cohesive look in a room or throughout a building.
Another potential issue with tiger oak wood is that it can be more prone to splitting and warping than other types of oak wood. This is because the quarter sawing process can create tension in the wood that can cause it to warp over time.
Finally, tiger oak wood can be more difficult to work with than other types of oak wood due to its hardness and density. This can make it challenging to cut, shape, and finish, especially for those without experience working with hardwoods.
Overall, while tiger oak wood can be a beautiful and distinctive choice for high-end applications, it is important to consider its drawbacks before deciding whether or not to use it in your project.
Comparison with Other Woods
When it comes to wood furniture, oak is a popular choice due to its strength, durability, and prominent wood grain. However, there are different types of oak, and quarter sawn oak, also known as tiger oak, stands out from the rest.
Compared to plain sawn oak, which is the most common type of oak used in furniture, quarter sawn oak has a more uniform grain pattern and is less likely to warp or twist over time. It also has a distinctive “tiger stripe” pattern that gives it a unique and elegant appearance.
Other types of wood commonly used in furniture include:
- Mahogany: Known for its reddish-brown color and durability, mahogany is often used in high-end furniture.
- Cherry: With its warm, reddish-brown color and fine grain, cherry is a popular choice for traditional and formal furniture.
- Maple: With its light color and smooth grain, maple is often used in contemporary and modern furniture.
While each type of wood has its own unique characteristics and advantages, quarter sawn oak remains a popular choice for those looking for a combination of strength, durability, and distinctive appearance in their furniture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is quarter sawn oak also known as tiger oak?
Quarter sawn oak is also known as tiger oak because of the distinctive grain pattern that results from the milling process. The process involves cutting the log into quarters and then sawing each quarter at a 90-degree angle to the growth rings. This results in a unique pattern of rays and flecks that resemble the stripes of a tiger.
What are the characteristics of tiger oak wood?
Tiger oak wood is known for its distinctive grain pattern, which is characterized by tight, straight grain lines and prominent rays and flecks. The wood is also known for its durability and strength, making it a popular choice for furniture and flooring.
What is the difference between tiger oak and tiger maple?
Tiger oak and tiger maple are two different types of wood with distinct characteristics. Tiger oak is a type of oak wood that has been quarter sawn, resulting in the distinctive grain pattern. Tiger maple, on the other hand, is a type of maple wood that has a similar grain pattern, but is characterized by a more pronounced curl or wave in the grain.
What is the cost of tiger oak compared to other types of oak?
Tiger oak is generally more expensive than other types of oak due to the time and effort required to produce the distinctive grain pattern. However, the cost can vary depending on the quality of the wood and the specific application.
What are the benefits of quarter sawn oak over plain sawn oak?
Quarter sawn oak is known for its superior stability and resistance to warping and splitting compared to plain sawn oak. It also has a more consistent grain pattern and a distinctive appearance.
How is tiger oak wood used in furniture making?
Tiger oak wood is a popular choice for furniture making due to its durability, strength, and distinctive appearance. It is commonly used for tables, chairs, cabinets, and flooring, among other applications. The unique grain pattern of tiger oak can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any piece of furniture.