Past & Present Uses for Oak Wood
- Historically, oak was used in specific applications where the hardness and strength of the wood was paramount. The keel and framework of tall sailing ships required oak wood. Wagon makers chose oak to form the wooden axles and frames of horse drawn carts and wagons and wheelwrights chose strong, hard oak to build the spokes for these conveyances.
- Many of the historic uses for oak are still present. Oak furniture, oak paneling, oak doors and oak millwork is as popular in modern homes as it was years ago, both for the inherent beauty of the wood as well as the durability of oak products. Oak flooring is particularly popular. Don't forget the oaken barrels used to age whiskey and wine both historically and in today's wineries and distilleries. Oak veneer is now a popular option to make furniture with the look of oak, but less expensive than solid oak.
- Historically, many buildings were constructed from whatever types of wood was available locally. If it was oak, oak lumber was used; if it was poplar or pine, that's what they used. Oak lumber is still available, but much more expensive and harder to work than faster growing, soft woods shipped in from commercial forests. Nowadays, oak lumber is sometimes specified for applications where strength is an issue as well as when the oak will be exposed and finished to reveal its natural beauty.
- Oak is one of the best firewood available. Oak logs burn long and hot. Whether for home heating, fireplaces, outdoor cooking or wood-fired ovens, few kinds of firewood are more popular.
