Gum (Liquidamber styraciflua)

Description: The sapwood tends to be wide and is white to light pink, while the heartwood is reddish brown, often with darker streaks. The wood has irregular grain, usually interlocked, which produces an attractive figure. It has a fine uniform texture.

Main Uses: Cabinet making, furniture parts, doors, millwork, strips and mouldings, turnings and rail ties. Good substitute for walnut when stained.

Physical Properties: American gum is moderately hard, stiff and heavy and has a low steam-bending classification.

Availability: Readily available, often separated for color and sold as sapgum (sapwood) and redgum (heartwood).

Working Properties: The wood is easy to work, with both hand and machine tools. It nails, screws and glues well, takes stain easily and can be sanded to an excellent finish. It dries rapidly with a strong tendency to warp and twist. It has a high shrinkage and is susceptible to movement in performance.

Strength and Mechanical Properties: (inch-pound)

Source: American Hardwood Information Center, Species Guide