Wood Expectations
Natural Characteristics of Cabinetry Wood
Real wood is never perfectly uniform—and that’s exactly the point. Variations in grain, tone, and texture are what make each cabinet uniquely yours.
WOOD GRAIN
Wood grain is a product of nature, and much like a fingerprint, no two grain patterns are ever exactly alike. This individuality is one of the most appealing qualities of wood products. Soil and climate affect the growth characteristics of wood, and even the finest hardwoods carry natural traits that no finishing process can—or should—conceal.
These characteristics occur because wood is a natural product, shaped by weather, climate, insects, birds, soil makeup, and natural growth patterns. They are not defects. Wood will always display natural characteristics and variances unique to every cut—and that’s an integral part of its charm and beauty.
JOINT EXPANSION
Wood naturally expands and contracts, and this movement can affect doors, drawers, and face frames—sometimes opening a joint line. The finish will continue to protect the surface, and the structural integrity of the joint will not be compromised. This is especially worth keeping in mind with painted finishes, where expansion and contraction is more visually apparent. Some separation at joints is completely normal. We take every precaution to minimize it, but incorporating a humidity control system into your home is the most effective way to reduce the likelihood of expansion and contraction in wood products.
PANEL SHRINKAGE
Door panels are prone to minor expansion and contraction as seasonal temperature and humidity levels shift. During low-humidity periods, the center panel may contract slightly, revealing an unfinished line along its edge. A humidity control system is recommended to minimize this. Touch-up markers are available to address this edge line, and in most cases, touch-up is only necessary within the first year.
WARPAGE
Expansion and contraction can also cause doors to warp temporarily—typically until a humidity control system has been installed and the home’s environment has stabilized. Specialty hinges are available to help readjust affected doors in the interim. Proper care and maintenance from the start will go a long way toward ensuring lasting beauty and performance.
END GRAIN
End grains appear darker because the softness of the wood causes it to absorb more stain. This is most commonly seen on mortise-and-tenon jointed doors. It is a natural reaction to the staining process and is not considered a defect.
MINERAL STREAKS
Olive, greenish-black, or brown discoloration sometimes appears in hardwoods as a result of minerals absorbed from the soil, or other effects of the natural growth process. This is common across many wood species and is not a defect.
AGING
Wood continues to age after installation. Some species, like cherry, darken more noticeably over time. For those who appreciate the character of natural wood, this transformation brings a rich, evolving luster to the product for years to come.
COLOR VARIATION
Our stain finishes are semi-transparent, applied specifically to enhance the natural beauty and character of the wood. While we offer an extensive range of stains and color tones, some variation in color is inherent to the nature of the material.