3/8

White Oak

White oak is famous for its tight grain and durability, which is why it’s long been a favorite for hardwood floors. But besides its resistance to impact, it also offers a surprising resistance to rot. According to Johnson, this is due to white oak’s dense cellular structure, which slows moisture absorption.

“When it comes to cabinetry, flooring or exterior trim, white oak is my wood of choice,” he says. “The long-lasting nature of white oak ensures that the items I make will withstand the test of time while retaining their intrinsic charm.

“Because of its impressive durability, white oak works great with flooring, interior trim and cabinetry. Doors, moldings chairs, and indoor furniture are also great projects for using white oak.”

White oak typically costs between $6.20 and $9.75 per board foot.

4/8

Teak

An import to the U.S., teak is native to Asia. This attractive, dark wood is categorized as Very Resistant to rot by the Forest Service. It’s long been a popular choice for nautical applications and makes great outdoor furniture.

Teak’s high level of extractives infuse it with oil that prevents water from penetrating its surface. Over time, teak oils will wear away, leaving the wood vulnerable to the elements. When teak wood begins to go gray or dull, it’s time to replenish its natural defenses with a coat of teak oil. With proper care, teak wood details and furniture can last for generations.

It’s good that it lasts so long, because at $21 to $40 per board foot, teak is expensive to replace.

5/8

Black Walnut

Tremendously popular among woodworkers, black walnut resembles the color of black locust wood. But it’s less dense, making it easier to work with. Martin O’Callaghan, a carpenter for Munster Hardwood Flooring, praises the rich variety in black walnut’s appearance.

“Both in terms of pattern and color, the walnut grain is quite variable,” he says. “The grain comes in a variety of tones, including creamy, café au lait, deep brown and scarlet tones. The grain can also vary significantly, sometimes being very straight, other times wavy or sometimes swirly, with noticeable differences in the width of the color bands.

“Using walnut wood for flooring can really bring a room together and creates a striking centerpiece.”

Black walnut milled lumber sells for around $5 to $15 per board foot.