Wood Species for Doors

Below you can view the different woods available for doors and drawer fronts. The pictures of wood samples shown include a natural clear finish.

“REFLECTING NATURE’S BEAUTY”

 

Modern construction materials and techniques have brought about a level of sophistication that our ancestors could never have imagined. When it comes to finishing and decorating, it is the ancient beauty and practicality of wood that captures our hearts and imaginations.

 

It is tempting to look for "Perfection" in wood products, just as we expect in other materials, like carpeting, counter tops and wall coverings. But of course, what we mean by perfection in these man-made materials is impossible–or even undesirable in products made of wood.

 

Wood is a natural material with variations in color, texture and figure. The manufacturer influences these variations. The color of wood within a tree varies between the "sapwood" (the outer layers of the tree which continue to transport sap) which is usually lighter in color, and the "heartwood" (the inner layers in which the cells have become filled with natural deposits.) Various species produce different grain patterns (figures) which influence the selection process. There will be variations of grain patterns within any selected species. The manufacturer cannot select solid lumber cuttings within a species by grain and color in the same manner in which veneers may be selected. Therefore, color, texture, and grain variations will occur even in the finest architectural woodworking.

 

Wood comes from trees. It is obvious, but worth repeating, and it is the most important fact to remember in understanding the nature of wood. Whatever qualities or shortcomings wood possesses is traceable to the tree from which it came. Wood evolved as a functional tissue of plants rather than as a man-made material designed and manufactured to satisfy the needs of the end user.

 

The finish that is applied to Nature's Beauty will only reflect that beauty in the grain that was created by forces over which we have no control. Grain and color variation along with defining characteristics of individual wood species should be expected. Exposure to sunlight, smoke, extreme heat/cold and chemicals will cause wood to age and vary from their original color over time. This is why new cabinets or doors added at a later date may not exactly match items installed now. For the same reason, door samples or color samples may not represent the exact color of the wood products received at the time of delivery. This is all a very natural process and a large part of the reason we all find wood products beautiful and an example of nature's perfection!

 

Click here for a more detailed explanation of color shift in wood.

 Natural
The "Natural" grade of wood will allow for color variations, including some sapwood common with each species. A limited effort will be made in color and grain matching. Other character marks that are common to the species will also be allowed with some restrictions. This is our most economical grade in each species.

Select
The "Select" grades of wood color and grain variations are fairly uniform and held to closer tolerances than in our "Natural" grade. A moderate amount of color variation is allowed between doors. Limited amount of character marks allowed with a small amount of sapwood allowed in the machined areas and edges.

Premium
"Premium" is our top grade with color and grain matching assured. All doors in an order will have the same color and grain characteristics with little tolerance for variations in machined areas. The "Premium" grade door is of meticulous quality and perfect for those who are extremely quality conscious. The "Premium" grade is only available for certain woods and NO PLYWOOD panel doors.

  Plywood Panels
Series 100 doors (#'s 100-140), 400 doors (#'s 400-416, 475, 478, 490, 491, 492, 493, and 494) and 700 doors (#'s 700-740) have a 1/4" thick plywood panel insert. The core of the plywood is either a veneer core or MDF core depending on availability. The plywood insert veneer on the back may not match fronts on some types of woods. Plywood panels, while warranted to be of similar color themselves, may not exactly match the solid wood frames. A solid wood panel is available as an upgrade for some of the door styles.

Back Side Of Cabinet Doors
The grade of the wood on the back side of doors may not match the fronts. Natural characteristics of the wood species are allowed on the back of the doors, including small filled knots, unless stated otherwise for a specific wood. If the back of one or more doors in your order needs to match the front in grade quality, you must notify us of this when placing your order. Additional charges may apply depending on the wood species,
contact us for details and pricing. 

 

Below you will see the types of wood we keep on hand. Note that it is entirely possible to order a wood not listed below as a special request. Just know that additional charges may apply depending on supplier availability, sourcing, and regulatory matters. If it fits within your budget, it doesn't hurt to ask!

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Ash

Beech

Birch

Birch Select

Cherry

Cherry Select

Cherry Rustic

Hickory

Maple

Maple Select

Paint Grade Poplar

Paint Grade Soft Maple

Red Alder

Red Alder Select

Red Alder Rustic

Red Oak

Red Oak Select

Red Oak Rustic

Rift-Sawn Red Oak

Quarter-Sawn Red Oak

Walnut

Walnut Select

White Oak

White Oak Select

Rift-Sawn White Oak