SPECIES
BLACK LOCUST – APPEARANCE
The brown-yellowish appearance of black locust wood, with olive tones resembling teak, boasts a distinct grain pattern that exhibits pronounced chatoyance. Light rays frequently dance along the grain, while the end grain offers a velvety texture reminiscent of aged tobacco. Its adaptable presence can enhance both austere and vivacious settings alike, making it a versatile choice for various design schemes employing butcher blocks countertops and solid wood kitchen island tops.
BLACK LOCUST – PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
In terms of physical properties, black locust wood is renowned for its remarkable hardness, scoring an impressive 1700 on the Janka scale, and exceptional stability with one of the lowest shrinkage rates among hardwoods. Its prominent decay resistance, coupled with excellent elasticity and shock resistance from its long grain, make it an ideal choice for heavy-duty applications such as mine posts, railroad ties, ship decks, high traffic floorings and butcher blocks countertops island tops. Moreover, its durability under extreme conditions of heat, moisture, and chemical activity further enhances its suitability for demanding environments.
BLACK LOCUST – WORKING PROPERTIES
Although primarily used for its aesthetics in kitchen and bathroom hardwood countertops, black locust wood';s resilience and stability also make it popular for butcher block islands or end grain butcher blocks. While it sands well, it may clog sandpaper due to its density, and it wears out saw blades faster than other wood species. However, it polishes to an exceptionally smooth surface and accepts stains and finishes with ease, albeit absorbing oil finishes slowly due to its natural oiliness.
TRIVIA
A fascinating trivia about black locust wood is its unique relationship with soil quality. Unlike most wood species, its quality is inversely proportional to soil quality; denser and harder timber results from growth in poorer soil due to slower annual growth rates. This characteristic adds to the intrigue and allure of black locust wood among woodworking enthusiasts and design aficionados alike. Moreover, our black locust butcher blocks countertops, kitchen island tops and edge glued panels are sourced from FSC certified hardwood timber, ensuring its sustainability and responsible forestry practices, adding an eco- conscious dimension to its appeal.
