Species and wood science
Sapwood and heartwood
Sapwood is the outer, often lighter wood, while heartwood is the older inner wood with different colour, durability and finishing behaviour.
What it means#
Sapwood is the living outer band of a tree. Heartwood is the older inner wood, often darker because extractives have built up over time.
Why buyers care#
The contrast is strong in walnut, where pale sapwood can frame dark brown heartwood. Sapwood is usually less durable and can take stain or oil differently. Live-edge slabs almost always include some.
What to check#
Check listing photos for the sapwood band on each edge and end. Decide whether the contrast belongs in the design. For outdoor or wet use, confirm the species and finish plan rather than assuming heartwood and sapwood will perform alike.
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