The Language of Timber: What Words Like ‘Quarter-Sawn’ and ‘Live Edge’ Actually Mean

Whether you're a weekend DIYer, an architect specifying finishes, or a joiner placing an order, the world of timber comes with a rich — and sometimes confusing — vocabulary. Terms like quarter-sawn, live edge, finger-jointed or mitre pop up all the time. But what do they actually mean?

This glossary-style guide breaks down the most common (and misunderstood) timber terms, with clear definitions and visual explanations — so you can speak timber like a pro.

📚 Timber Glossary: Key Terms Explained

1. Quarter-Sawn

Definition: A method of cutting a log at a right angle to the growth rings, producing boards with straight, uniform grain.

Why it matters: Quarter-sawn timber is more stable and less prone to warping, cupping or twisting. It also produces beautiful grain patterns, especially in oak.

Use it when: You want high stability and elegant grain — ideal for flooring, cabinetry, and joinery.

2. Live Edge

Definition: A board where at least one edge retains the natural, uncut contour of the tree.

Why it matters: Adds organic, characterful shape to furniture and shelving — a favourite in modern rustic or biophilic design.

Use it when: You want to highlight nature’s shape and texture, often seen in tables, benches, and wall panels.

3. Finger-Jointed

Definition: A manufacturing technique where short pieces of timber are joined end-to-end using interlocking ‘fingers’ and strong adhesive.

Why it matters: Finger-jointed timber is more sustainable (using offcuts), reduces waste, and provides strong, straight, consistent boards with minimal movement.

Use it when: You need long, stable lengths for furniture, mouldings, or painted cabinetry — especially when grain continuity is less critical.

4. Mitre (or Miter)

Definition: A precisely angled cut, usually at 45°, that allows two pieces of timber to join neatly at a corner.

Why it matters: Common in picture frames, trim, and cabinetry, mitres provide a clean, continuous look with no exposed end grain.

Use it when: Building furniture, frames, architraves, or decorative box corners — anywhere a tidy corner join is needed.

5. Kiln-Dried

Definition: Timber that’s been dried in a controlled environment to remove moisture.

Why it matters: Kiln-dried boards are stable, less prone to warping, and ready for interior use.

All our panels at Proboard Timber are kiln-dried to 8%.

6. Rough Sawn

Definition: Timber cut but not planed smooth — often straight from the mill.

Why it matters: It’s cost-effective and ideal for further machining or rustic aesthetics.

7. Dressed (DAR – Dressed All Round)

Definition: Timber machined smooth and square on all sides.

Why it matters: Ready for joinery and installation for various jobs with no further planing needed.

8. Heartwood vs Sapwood

• Heartwood is the dense inner core — darker and more durable.

• Sapwood is the lighter, softer outer layer.

Why it matters: Heartwood is typically more resistant to decay and often chosen for structural or outdoor uses.

9. Checking

Definition: Small surface cracks caused by timber drying unevenly, usually at the ends.

Why it matters: Usually cosmetic, but something to account for in final cuts or finishing.

10. Movement

Definition: Wood naturally expands and contracts with moisture and temperature changes.

Why it matters: Design with this in mind to avoid gaps, cracks, or warping over time.

11. Grain Direction

Definition: The orientation of wood fibres — can be straight, wavy, or irregular.

Why it matters: Grain affects strength, appearance, and how a board reacts to cutting or finishing.

12. Lamination

Definition: Bonding lamellas of timber together to form a thicker or wider board.

Why it matters: Increases stability, allows longer spans, and can improve aesthetics.

Final Thoughts: Why Timber Terms Matter

Understanding timber terminology helps you:

• Order with confidence

• Choose the right product for the right job

• Spot quality craftsmanship

• Avoid costly mistakes

  
  

From joinery to cladding, timber is an expressive, living material — and knowing the language helps you get the most out of every board.

🔗 Ready to put your knowledge to work? Explore our premium timber range, or talk to our team for expert advice at proboardtimber.com.