quartersawn

Quartersawn refers to a method of cutting lumber in which the log is divided into four quarters and each quarter is sawn so that the growth rings are near perpendicular to the board face. This contrasts with plainsawn (flat-sawn) lumber, where boards are cut more tangentially to the growth rings.

In practice, after the log is quartered, each quarter is sawn into boards with the annual rings oriented roughly 60 to 90 degrees to the wide face. The grain typically runs fairly straight along the length of the board, and in species such as oak, medullary rays create a distinctive ray fleck pattern on the surface.

Quartersawn boards exhibit greater dimensional stability than plainsawn boards, with reduced cupping, twisting, and differential shrinkage as moisture content changes. They tend to move less across the width and are prized for wide boards, flooring, and fine furniture. However, the process produces more waste and generally incurs higher cost. Drying can be more challenging in some cases, and the yield per log is lower than for plainsawn cuts.

Common applications include high-end flooring, cabinetry, and veneers, where the combination of stable geometry and attractive grain patterns is valued. Overall, quartersawn lumber is chosen for its balance of durability, appearance, and reduced sensitivity to moisture-driven movement, despite higher production costs.