Why Does Your Brush Cleaner Sometimes Fail? The Science of Solvents and Drying Rates
Which solvents suit wood finishing tools; how evaporation rates affect cleaning, drying, and maintaining brushes and tools.
Wood Work Science
Helping woodworkers using science and experience
Wood Work Science
Helping woodworkers using science and experience
David Ernst
David is a veteran woodworker. He is now retired and stays in his cabin in Wisconsin which he built himself. David has 25+ years experience working in carpentry and wood shops. He has designed and built many small and large wood projects and knows the science behind wood selection like the back of his hand. He is an expert guide on any questions regarding wood material selection, wood restoration, wood working basics and other types of wood. While his expertise is in woodworking, his knowledge and first hand experience is far from 'woody'.
What’s in Walnut Wood? The Real Science Behind Its Toxicity, Allergies, and Finishing Challenges
Walnut wood: toxicity and allergen risks, its chemical properties, effects on finishing, and health protections for woodworkers.
What’s the Right Way to Clean and Finish an Ipe Deck?
Clean, maintain, and finish an Ipe deck to keep durability and color: methods, cleaners, finishes, timing, UV protection.
What’s the Best Sealant for Outdoor Pine Furniture?
Best method to seal pine for outdoor durability: prep, sealant types, UV/water resistance, application tips, maintenance, costs.
What Is Pine’s Janka Hardness Rating, and How Does Density Drive Its Behavior?
Pine Janka hardness and density: how pine's strength, stiffness, wear, and moisture-driven movement shape woodworking decisions.
What Makes a Wood Finish Last? Stain, Sealer, and Topcoat Chemistry Explained
How stain penetration, sealer chemistry, and topcoat layers yield durable, protective wood finishes.
How Do Wood Glues Really Perform? Comparing Bond Strength and Durability by Species and Joint
Compare wood adhesive bond strength, durability, and performance across species and joint types; tests and best-fit pairings.
Tung Oil vs. Linseed Oil vs. Mineral Oil: Which Actually Protects Wood from Water?
Compare chemical properties and water-damage protection of tung oil, linseed oil, and mineral oil for wood.
Does Pine Stand Up to the Elements? A Science-Based Look at Outdoor Use.
Is pine durable for outdoor furniture, decks, and structures? Weather resistance, treatments, maintenance, common pine questions.
How Do You Find Quality Walnut Wood Near You?
Locate local walnut wood suppliers and lumberyards, compare grades, pricing, and options for boards, roughsawn stock.