In the realm of woodworking and construction, a quiet debate persists, echoing the whispers of ancient forests and newly sprouted saplings: the dichotomy of old growth versus new growth wood. Both have unique characteristics, applications, and stories to tell, but what truly differentiates these two types of timber?
Table of Contents
- What is Old Growth Wood?
- What is New Growth Wood?
- Which is Best?
What is Old Growth Wood?
When we speak of old growth wood, we're referring to timber harvested from trees that have grown naturally, undisturbed for several centuries.
These trees, often found in primary forests, have matured in a dense environment, competing for sunlight and resources, resulting in tight growth rings.
Characteristics and Benefits
- Density and Durability: Old growth wood is denser due to its slow growth, making it more durable and resistant to wear and decay.
- Aesthetic Appeal: It often has a richer color and more intricate grain patterns, making it highly sought after for woodworking and premium construction projects.
- Stability: This wood tends to be more stable, with less tendency to warp or twist.
- Environmental Concerns: Harvesting old growth wood has significant environmental implications. Primary forests are biodiversity hotspots, and their destruction can have cascading ecological impacts.
What is New Growth Wood?
This refers to timber harvested from trees that have grown in areas cleared for logging or other purposes. These trees grow faster because they face less competition for sunlight and resources, resulting in wider growth rings.
These are also trees grown in what you may have heard called, “tree farms.”
The goal of tree farms is to grow the trees as fast as possible and harvest them for lumber.
Characteristics and Benefits
- Sustainability: New growth forests can be sustainably managed and replanted, making this wood a more renewable resource.
- Affordability: Generally, new growth wood is more abundant and less expensive than old growth wood.
- Variability: This wood can be less consistent in terms of density and grain pattern, sometimes making it less predictable for certain applications.
- Adaptability: Since new growth wood is more commonly available, it's often the type of wood that's been researched and developed for modern treatments and applications.
Which is Best?
The old growth and new growth wood debate revolves around a few key points. First, durability, which goes to old growth wood. The fact that you see the tree rings very close together means the wood is stronger and more durable.
Second, your pocket book, if you are on a tight budget, then this one goes to new growth wood. This type of wood is much cheaper and easier to find than old growth wood. In addition, a number of companies only harvest lumber from tree farms.
Third, regarding aesthetics, this one is a toss up. Some prefer the look of the old growth wood, with its tight tree rings, while others do not have much of a preference since they will cover the wood with some type of paint coating.
Whichever type of wood you select, the artisans at Rogall + Co. will bring your vision to life. You can learn about different types of wood, and also other substrate types from our materials experts; the goal is to pick the right material for your project.
