What is the Difference Between Quarter Sawn vs Plain Sawn vs Rift Sawn Wood?

Posted on October 01/2019
Sawn

The best way to describe this is by showing a diagram on how the wood is cut for this effect. Please note this is also a factor in determining the cost of your stairs.


PLAIN/FLAT SAWN

  • 0-30° to the face
  • Faster to produce
  • More affordable
  • Cathedral appearance
  • Readily available

QUARTER SAWN

  • 30°-60° to the face
  • More stable than plain sawn
  • Increased moisture resistance
  • Less likely to cup, twist, warp
  • Beautiful ribbon “fleck” pattern
  • Less expensive then rift

RIFT SAWN

  • 60°-90° to the face
  • Ideal for furniture
  • The most dimensionally stable cut of lumber
  • Unique, linear appearance

 

 

*Reference Wiki*