Durability:
Durable (external use)

Workability:
Moderately Workable

Price Rating:
High

Weight:
720 kg/m3

Typical Tree Height:
18-30m

Trunk Diameter:
1.2-1.8m

Length Ranges:
1.8-5.4m

Width Ranges:
100-250mm

Description:

Green, fresh Oak

Depending on origin, the heartwood varies from light tan to deep brown, with distinct bands of early wood and latewood. The grain is usually straight, but irregular or cross grain can occur. The texture is coarse, and rays and growth rings show an attractive figure ('silver grain') when quarter sawn. Green Oak or fresh Oak is typically high in moisture and used for exterior applications. Normally full of character and used for structural members whilst providing an attractive look. Popular in timber frame structures and rustic buildings

Further reading on Green Oak timber: If you would like to read a full profile specification on Green Oak timber, please visit our sister site, Any One wood, The online wood reference database. https://www.anyonewood.com/green-oak/

Material Type:
Hardwood

Also Called:
English Oak, Pendunculate Oak, Common Oak, Sessile Oak, Durmast Oak

Durability Notes:
The heartwood of European oak is durable and highly resistant to preservatives. The sapwood, however is vulnerable to powder-post and common furniture beetles. European oak is a good alround performer.

Seasoning:
The drying and seasoning of Green Oak is dependant on a number of factors; the speed in which it is processed after felling and logging, the method of drying and the specific kilns or location (if air dried). Generally the care taken by those processing the wood will have an impact on its drying and seasoning. As an overview; Green Oak - Drying is slow, with a tendency to check, split, warp and honeycomb; shrinkage is high. Movement in service is medium. Please note that all wood is liable to move when in service plus there can be dimensional change. The extent of this will depend on; the stability of the species itself, the conditions it is exposed to, the coating, decoration and protection. You will find more information about the suitability of this wood, for any proposed application, by using our interactive system and the filters shown.

Properties:
Oak is fairly hard, heavy and dense, with high crushing and bending strength, low stiffness and resistance to shock loads. It is very good for steam-bending. It is fairly hard to work with hand tools, with a tolerable to severe blunting effect. Pre-drilling is advised for nailing and screwing. It turns adequately and is good for gluing. Oak is good for painting, staining, oiling, varnishing and will take a high polish. The tannin content may corrode ferrous metals, particularly when exposed externally - the tannin can also cause staining to adjacent surfaces.

Typical Uses:
Green oak is typically used for structural applications such as beams, lintels, trusses and Oak framed buildings. It is normally of a character grade and will have (and may develop) splits, blemishes and large knots. As fresh 'Green' timber this will have a high moisture content and move considerably once in service.

Spiritual Properties:
'Mighty oaks from little acorns grow' goes the quote. This tree inspires us to be strong in body, mind and spirit. It is a sacred and revered tree representing endurance, power, protection and authority.

Moisture Content:
Varies - can be as high as 70% (down to around 20%)

Sustainability:
Considered as of least concern by The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species (last assessed in 2007)

Wood Worker's Thoughts:
The high moisture content improves workability but makes it heavy to handle - very good nailing and fixing, again due to the moisture. Will inevitably move, twist, warp as it dries out adding to the character of the wood.

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