- 4123 Cromwell Road, Chattanooga, TN 37421
- M-F 7:30am-4pm | Sat 10am-4pm
*Inventory fluctuates daily. Call to verify exact board foot quantities.
Because every board is unique, we do not sell directly online. Contact us to get pricing or have us pull the perfect stack for you.
Janka Rating: 950 lbf — Cherry provides a balance of hardness and workability, making it a popular choice for furniture and cabinetry. This moderate rating ensures durability while maintaining ease of machining.
Cherry lumber features a striking heartwood that ranges from pale pinkish-brown to deep, reddish-brown, often developing a rich, dark purple hue with exposure to light and air. The sapwood is typically lighter, ranging from cream to pale yellow, but is usually minimal in the lumber. The grain is straight to slightly interlocked with a fine, uniform texture. Cherry is known for its beautiful, consistent color and occasionally exhibits stunning figured patterns like curly grain or bird’s-eye, which add unique character and value to high-end woodworking projects.
Cherry is renowned for its excellent workability. It machines well with both hand and power tools, though care should be taken to avoid tear-out on the end grain due to its interlocked grain structure. It glues readily with standard woodworking adhesives and accepts stains and finishes beautifully, though it may show some blotchiness which can be minimized with a pre-stain conditioner. Note that Cherry has a tendency to dull cutting tools quickly, so frequent tool sharpening is recommended. It also has good nail-holding and screw-holding properties, but pre-drilling is advised for larger nails.
Cherry wood is a premier choice for high-end furniture, including tables, chairs, and desks, as well as for cabinetry in kitchens and bathrooms. It is also widely used in flooring, millwork (such as doors and moldings), and fine woodworking projects like musical instruments and decorative turned objects. Its ability to develop a rich patina over time makes it ideal for pieces that are intended to age gracefully.
