Urban Wood Vs Traditional Wood

We at Alabama Sawyer use urban wood instead of traditional wood. But what are the exact differences between urban wood and traditional wood? And why do we use urban wood?

Differences between urban wood and traditional wood

Urban wood: urban wood fulfills the same needs as traditional wood, but it comes from fallen trees that fell due to disease, weather, insects, or construction. Previously, urban wood was considered a waste problem, but today there is a growing movement that promotes the use of fallen urban trees as a more sustainable forestry option. 

Keep in mind that urban wood is graded differently than traditional wood. The species that make up an urban forest tend to be more sporadic and less intentional than in a traditional forest.  

Traditional wood: Traditional forests are usually maintained for the production of commodity wood OR to fulfill certain criteria for responsible forestry, i.e., a forest that is maintained for wildlife. 

Traditional hardwood is graded according to standards set forth by the NHLA (National Hardwood Lumber Association). 

Traditional wood and lumber tends to be more uniform than urban wood. Urban wood will typically have more aberrations and flaws than traditional wood. 

Why do we use urban wood?

We love the aforementioned aberrations and flaws that come with urban wood. We love the history that comes with each tree that is sourced from the urban forest of Alabama. Another reason is that urban wood is better for the environment, renewable, and reduces waste.  

Sources & Further Reading

“What Is Urban Wood?” Urban Wood Network, urbanwoodnetwork.org/about/what-is-urban-wood. 

Cassens, Daniel L., and Edith Makra. Urban Wood and Traditional Wood: A Comparison of Properties and Uses. Sept. 2014, extension.purdue.edu/extmedia/FNR/FNR-490-W.pdf.