QUARTERSAWN Meaning and
Definition
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Quartersawn, also known as quarter-sawn or quartered, is a term used to describe a specific cutting technique employed in woodworking, particularly with hardwoods. It refers to the manner in which a log or timber is cut into boards or pieces that are to be used in construction or furniture making.
In quartersawn lumber, the log is first cut into quarters. Then, each individual quarter is further sliced into boards, ensuring that the growth rings are approximately 60 to 90 degrees relative to the face of the board. This cutting technique results in boards that display straight grain patterns with tighter, more consistent grain lines compared to other cutting methods.
The benefits of quartersawn lumber lie in its increased stability, durability, and resistance to warping or shrinking. Due to the unique orientation of the wood fibers, quartersawn boards have superior dimensional stability and are less prone to expansion and contraction caused by changes in humidity levels. Additionally, this method also enhances the wood's resistance to splitting, rendering it ideal for applications requiring high strength and longevity, such as flooring, furniture, musical instruments, and architectural elements.
Furthermore, quartersawn wood exhibits a distinctive characteristic known as ray fleck or medullary rays. These rays, which appear as light-colored lines on the wood surface, add visual appeal and enhance the overall aesthetic value of the lumber. In summary, quartersawn wood is a premium cut that maximizes the desirable attributes of hardwood and is sought after for its beauty, stability, and strength.
Etymology of QUARTERSAWN
The word "quartersawn" is a compound word composed of "quarter" and "sawn".
The term "quarter" refers to the orientation of the wood grain in relation to the growth rings of a tree. In particular, it refers to the angle at which the wood is cut from a log. When a log is quartered, it is cut into four quarters, with each quarter having a radial (perpendicular to the growth rings) orientation. This method of cutting results in the wood grain being "quartersawn".
The term "sawn" simply refers to the past participle form of the verb "saw", indicating that the wood has been cut or sawed.
Therefore, the word "quartersawn" describes the method of cutting wood wherein it is sawed in a way that reveals the end grain and the growth rings with a radial orientation, resulting in a distinctive grain pattern.
