Description

WORKING PROPERTIES

Aspen does not split when nailed, it machines easily with a slightly fuzzy surface, and turns, bores, and sands well. It takes paint and stain well to produce a good finish although care is required where the surface is fuzzy. It has low to moderate shrinkage and good dimensional stability. Aspen is a true poplar, and therefore has similar characteristics and properties to cottonwood and European poplar.

PHYSICAL PROPERTIES

The wood is light and soft, with low bending strength and stiffness, and medium shock resistance. It has a very low bending classification.

AVAILABILITY

USA: Limited, and rarely available in thick stock.
Export: Limited due to low demand.

DURABILITY

Non-resistant to heartwood decay, and extremely resistant to preservative treatment.

MAIN USES

Furniture parts (drawer sides), doors, mouldings, picture frames, interior joinery, toys, kitchen utensils. Matchsticks (USA). Important specialised uses include sauna laths because of its low conductivity of heat, and chopsticks.