Q. We just started processing some cherry lumber that was planed S2S by the supplier. We are seeing a small number of checks developing, especially in the flat sawn pieces. We are really perplexed as to what is causing this.

American cherry continues to be popular with furniture manufacturers.

Years ago, walnut was king, then cherry became the most sought after species. Meanwhile, curly or tiger maple became very hot, good mahogany was available, and quarter sawn white oak ascended. The curly maple and cherry markets crashed in the recession. Walnut has returned. Is cherry next?

The Wood Doctor describes how lumber is steamed and why it is done.

Cabinet and furniture manufacturing — key domestic markets for cherry — are growing slower than expected, or not at all, and flooring sector purchases of cherry are now very low. The excess production of both hardwoods is driving down price.

Demand and prices are firmer for upper-grade lumber than for #1 Common and below in most hardwood species. Inventories of unsold Red Oak, White Oak, Hard Maple, Soft Maple and Cherry continue to build, especially in the commons.

I’ve been blessed in my career to have seen literally thousands of sanding processes. This has taught me humility when I first approach a new customer because you never really know what inspired them to do things that, on the outset, seem rather silly and counterproductive.

Elkay's Schuler Cabinetry launched a multi-step Cappucino finish, available on a variety of wood species, including cherry, knotty alder, oak and quartersawn oak. The line of face frame kitchen cabinets is sold at Lowe's.

Schuler Cabinetry, an Elkay Companies cabinet brand sold at Lowe’s, has launched a new, multi-step finish called Cappuccino. This finish is available on a variety of wood species, including cherry, knotty alder, oak and quartersawn oak.