Defects and features
Pith
Pith is the centre of the tree. It is often unstable in wide slabs and can be associated with cracking or movement.
What it means#
Pith is the small central core of the tree. In slab stock, it can show up as a line or soft centre area depending on how the log was sawn.
Why buyers care#
The pith area often moves differently from the surrounding wood and can be prone to checking. It is not automatically unusable, but it needs a plan.
What to check#
Check whether the pith crosses the intended finished surface, whether cracks radiate from it, and whether trimming or stabilisation is expected.
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