When it comes to timber selection, understanding the differences between Boxed Heart and Free of Heart Center (FOHC) can make all the difference in achieving the best results for your project. Each option has unique characteristics that affect cost, stability, and appearance. At Niagara Sawmill, we’re here to guide you through the details so you can make an informed decision tailored to your needs.
What is Boxed Heart Timber?
Boxed heart timbers are milled with the heart center, or pith, of the tree included within the timber. This is achieved by squaring the log, removing the bark and edges, and “boxing” the center of the tree into the cut. This method is highly efficient and economical, as it makes use of the entire log.
Key Characteristics of Boxed Heart Timbers:
Efficient Milling Process: By utilizing the whole log, boxed heart timbers minimize waste, making them a cost-effective choice for many projects.
Prone to Checking: As the timber dries, the grain around the heart center shrinks unevenly, which can lead to checking (cracks). This is a natural aesthetic occurrence and does not compromise the timber’s structural integrity or durability. For more on how to manage or prevent checking, check out our previous blog on avoiding cracks in wood.
Affordable: Due to the efficient milling process, boxed heart timbers are more budget-friendly compared to other options.
Boxed heart timbers are an excellent choice for projects where cost is a priority and aesthetic checking is acceptable.
What is Free of Heart Center (FOHC) Timber?
FOHC timbers are milled to exclude the heart center of the tree. By avoiding the pith, these timbers provide greater stability, as they are less prone to the twisting, warping, or checking that can occur during the drying process. However, this method requires larger logs, making FOHC timbers a more premium option.
Key Characteristics of FOHC Timbers:
Superior Stability: Without the heart center, FOHC timbers dry more evenly, significantly reducing the risk of cracking, splitting, or warping over time. This makes them ideal for applications where durability and precision are critical.
Premium Quality: FOHC timbers are often graded #1 & Better, meaning they feature excellent strength and appearance properties. Any knots are sound, tight, and well-spaced, with no loose knots or rot allowed.
Higher Cost: Milling FOHC timbers requires a much larger log to achieve the desired dimensions, making them more expensive. However, for high-end or visually demanding projects, their benefits often outweigh the additional cost.
FOHC timbers are an excellent investment for projects requiring minimal aesthetic imperfections and structural stability.
Comparing Boxed Heart and FOHC Timbers
Feature | Boxed Heart | FOHC |
Heart Center Included | Yes | No |
Prone to Checking | More likely due to heart center shrinkage | Less likely due to even grain drying |
Cost | Budget-friendly | Higher cost due to larger log requirements |
Applications | General construction, cost-sensitive projects | High-end projects, precision builds |
Stability | Moderate | High |
Choosing the Right Timber for Your Project
When deciding between boxed heart and FOHC timbers, consider the following factors:
Project Budget: If cost is a primary concern, boxed heart timbers are a practical and economical option.
Aesthetic Requirements: For projects where visible checking or cracking is undesirable, FOHC timbers are the superior choice.
Structural Stability: FOHC timbers are ideal for applications requiring minimal warping or twisting as they dry.
End Use: Boxed heart timbers are perfect for general construction or utility purposes, while FOHC timbers are better suited for fine carpentry, decorative beams, or other visually demanding projects.
How Niagara Sawmill Can Help
At Niagara Sawmill, we offer both boxed heart and FOHC timbers to meet the diverse needs of our customers. Here’s what you can expect from us:
Custom Milling: Whether you need boxed heart timbers for a budget-friendly build or premium FOHC timbers for a specialized project, we can custom mill the exact dimensions you require.
Expert Advice: Not sure which option is right for your project? Our knowledgeable team is here to guide you through the selection process, ensuring you get the best timber for your needs.
Green Timbers: All our timbers are provided green (undried) and will air dry over time, offering you flexibility in planning your project timeline.
Contact Us
If you’re ready to get started or have questions about boxed heart or FOHC timbers, give us a call today. At Niagara Sawmill, we’re dedicated to providing high-quality timbers and exceptional service to bring your projects to life.
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