Is That Scrap Wood Safe to Burn? A Wood Science Guide to Fireplace and Fire Pit Risks
Safe scrap wood burning: creosote, toxins, sap hazards, and species-specific wood materials risks for fireplaces and fire pits.
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'.
Is MDF Safe for Furniture? A Woodworker’s Guide to Formaldehyde and VOCs
Is MDF/particleboard safe for indoor furniture? Covers formaldehyde off-gassing, VOC risks, choosing guidance and mitigation tips
Bamboo vs. Hardwood: A Materials Showdown for Your Shop
Bamboo vs traditional hardwoods: compare properties, durability, sustainability, sourcing, and workability for woodworkers.
What Wood Anatomy Creates the Best Sound for Musical Instruments?
How wood anatomy affects sound transmission and the best woods for instruments, with grain, density, damping, moisture, and tone.
How Do Dovetails and Mortise-and-Tenon Joints Handle Real-World Forces?
Joint physics of dovetails and mortise-and-tenon; how they resist forces, wood materials, and questions for woodworkers.
How Do Wood Stains Really Work? The Science of Pigments, Dyes, and Surface Coatings
Wood stain chemistry: pigments vs dyes; penetration vs surface coatings; wood porosity/species; prep, application, finishes.
What Wood is Truly Safe for Children’s Toys? A Materials Guide
Choosing wood for kids' toys: safety, hardness, finishes, coatings, splinter risk, non-toxicity, durability, and care.
Oil or Water-Based Finish: What’s the Real Difference for Woodworkers?
Oil- and water-based finishes: chemical differences, drying times, durability, VOCs, cleanup, wood compatibility, usage tips.
Are Hardwoods Really More Durable Than Softwoods? A Woodworker’s Material Science Breakdown
Hardwood vs softwood durability debunked: factors, species, treatment, environments, and practical guidance for selecting wood.
Is Pressure-Treated Wood Still Toxic? A Wood Science Guide
Is pressure-treated wood safe? Covers modern treatments, safety, exposure risks, handling tips, alternatives and regulations.