What types of wood expand and contract the least with temperature?
Wood, as a natural material, will always expand and contract to some degree due to changes in temperature and humidity. However, some wood species are more dimensionally stable than others and experience less movement. The following woods are known for their stability and are less prone to expansion and contraction:
1. Teak: Teak is highly resistant to warping and shrinking due to its natural oils and high silica content. It’s commonly used in outdoor furniture and marine applications.
2. Mahogany: African and South American mahogany species are known for their dimensional stability, making them popular choices for furniture, cabinetry, and musical instruments.
3. Quarter-sawn white oak: Quarter-sawn lumber, cut to reveal the growth rings perpendicular to the board’s surface, is more stable than plain-sawn lumber. White oak, in particular, is quite stable when quarter-sawn and is often used in flooring and furniture.
4. Cherry: Cherry is a stable hardwood that resists warping and shrinking, making it a popular choice for furniture, cabinetry, and veneers.
5. Ipe: Ipe, also known as Brazilian walnut, is a dense, stable hardwood often used in decking, outdoor furniture, and flooring. Its natural oils and hardness make it highly resistant to moisture and movement.
6. Cypress: Cypress is a stable softwood with natural resistance to decay and moisture, making it suitable for outdoor applications like siding, decking, and outdoor furniture.
7. Cedar: Western red cedar and eastern white cedar are known for their stability and resistance to warping, making them popular choices for outdoor applications, such as decking, fencing, and outdoor furniture.
Keep in mind that even dimensionally stable woods will experience some movement due to changes in temperature and humidity. To minimize expansion and contraction, it’s essential to properly dry and acclimate the wood before use, store it in a stable environment, and design your projects to accommodate wood movement.
