Pressed wood is made by pressing wood fibers or particles together with a binding agent and heat. Chipboard is commonly used for inexpensive furniture, while medium-density fiberboard (MDF) is denser and more durable. Pallets are often made from pressed wood due to its low cost. Pressed wood is a type of material made up of […]
Heat treated wood is exposed to high temperatures to improve its utility, limit shrinkage and swelling, and prevent rotting. Common species include pine, aspen, and spruce, used for floors, walls, ceilings, and furniture. Wood used for packing materials requires a less intense temperature to eliminate pests. ISPM 15 requires all wood packaging material to be […]
Liquid wood, made from lignin and natural fibers, is a non-toxic, biodegradable alternative to petroleum-based plastics. Arboform® has low sulfur content, making it safe for toy manufacturing. The material is waterproof and can be shaped and mass-produced. Liquid wood has been used to make clocks, automobile parts, pens, and more. It can be recycled or […]
Fiberboard is an engineered wood product made from wood chips and a binder. It is used for siding, sound insulation, and furnishings. It is made by grinding wood chips to generate long cellulose fibers mixed with a binder. It can be formaldehyde-free and is available in home improvement stores. Fiberboard is an engineered wood product […]
Wood needs to be waterproofed to protect it from rot, warping, and cracking. There are many types of wood sealers, including oils, paint, and synthetic products. DIY enthusiasts can also create their own waterproofing mixes. It is important to clean the wood before applying the sealer and to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines. Some products can […]
Faux wood is a cheaper alternative to real wood, made of products, adhesives, and veneers that resemble wood. However, some varieties contain harmful chemicals like formaldehyde. Different types of faux wood include particleboard, hardboard, and veneer laminated wood, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Faux wood furniture offers greater flexibility in color choices and […]
When choosing a wood dash kit for a vehicle, look for one that is easy to install and visually appealing. A laminate product with trim pieces attached with double-sided tape is common. Proper fit and finish are important, and a simulated wood kit may be easier to install and maintain. Complement the color of the […]
Glulam is a structural timber product made of glued-together pieces of wood. It’s a sustainable alternative to large sawn timbers, using smaller trees. Glulam can produce large beams and curves, and can be pressure treated for exterior use. Glued laminated timber, commonly called glulam, is a type of structural timber product made up of individual […]
A wood router is a power tool used for cutting or routing grooves and moldings into wood. It comes in fixed spindle, plunge, and combined versions and uses different cutting bits. Fixed spindle routers are best for accuracy, while plunge routers are suitable for deep cutting and starting in the middle of lumber. Variable speed […]
Renting a wood chipper is similar to buying one, but with extra considerations. Find a model that fits your needs, discuss liability for damages, and consider rental times for the best price. Physical and online rental options are available. A person looking to rent a wood chipper might find that the process is similar to […]
Choosing the best wood chisel set depends on the user and project. Different chisels have different uses and restrictions. It’s best to research before buying, start with a smaller set, and consider added features and brand. Trying chisels or holding them can help with decision making. Gift sets should be safe and functional. Choosing the […]
Wood flour is a fine powder made from dried and pulverized wood chips, commonly maple or pine. It can be mixed with epoxy resin to create a filler for building projects and is often used for outdoor construction due to its waterproof properties. When wood chips are dried and then pulverized to a fine powder, […]
Teak is a durable, weather-resistant hardwood used for outdoor furniture and indoor flooring. Its natural oils repel insects and weather, making it ideal for outdoor use. Over-harvesting has led to sustainability concerns, prompting the establishment of teak plantations in Asia and elsewhere. Teak lumber is a type of hardwood derived from the teak tree, native […]
A wood chipper turns trees into wood chips for mulch. Different models vary in size and intended use. Those with large properties benefit from owning one, while occasional users may rent or hire professionals. Most chippers have a funnel-shaped area that directs wood into rotating blades, and wheels for mobility. Blades need to be sharpened […]
Woodworking chisels are used to carve and shape wood with a high-carbon steel blade attached to a handle. Sets include different widths and profiles, and can be honed to a razor-sharp edge. They are used in woodturning and carving, creating intricate details. Chisels used in carpentry are more utilitarian and often helped through the wood […]
Certified wood is lumber approved by a certification body as responsibly managed. The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) was the first to certify wood in the US. To get certified, a timber producer must accept an audit verifying they meet rigorous standards. FSC certification is the most respected and recognized worldwide. Certified wood has a symbol […]
Woodworking planes are hand-held tools used to shape and smooth wood. They consist of a blade, a block to drive the blade, and a wedge to fix the blade. Modern planes have steel blades and come in different types for various tasks. Jerk, caused by going against the grain, is a common issue. Japanese woodworking […]
Engineered wood products are made from wood fibers, strips, and veneer sheets bonded together with adhesive resin. They include flooring, lumber, and particleboard. Engineered flooring is cheaper and more durable than traditional wood. Engineered lumber includes I-joists and glued laminated timber. Particleboard products include oriented strand board and laminate fiberboard. Engineered wood products are made […]
Veneer glulam, or LVL, is a durable wood product made by bonding thin layers of wood with adhesive. It can be used in building projects and furniture, and is resistant to warping and pressure. The process involves preparing thin sheets of wood with adhesive and treating them to prevent deterioration. Veneer glulam can be used […]
Wood filler, also known as wood putty, is used by woodworkers to fill imperfections in wood. It is a glue-based mixture with fillers like sawdust or plaster. Grout can be water-based, solvent-based, or oil-based. Water-based grout is the most environmentally friendly, while oil-based filler stays flexible longer. Nitrocellulose-based putty dries quickly, and gypsum-based grout comes […]
