Cypress has been used by generations of craftsmen and homebuilders. It was the preferred exterior wood used in the South during America’s early Colonial Period. Therefore, many structures remain today. Cypress is a prized and uniquely American wood. Architects and artisans have long utilized Cypress’ timeless beauty. Frank Lloyd Wright often specified the species for interior and exterior applications.
Cypress has a light brown color with a yellowish tint. It is widely used today by architects, and is identified by its scattered mark patterns of darker wood. It has a straight grain and medium texture, but can also have a coarse texture. It’s best to choose old-growth Cypress, as they are more resistant to decay.
Uses
Uses include: exterior construction, docks, boatbuilding, interior trim, as well as veneer.
Availability
Cypress is readily available in a wide range of lumber sizes and veneers.
Workability
It’s easy to work with due to its versatility. Use sharp cutters and light passes to avoid tearout. Gluing is easy, as are nailing and finishing.
Natural Range
Southern United States.
Specialty Lumber Solutions sources Cypress from some of the best mills in the Deep South. We offer numerous stocked patterns in either a rustic #2 grade or in Select. In addition, we have timbers up to 26’ long. Our stock is harvested from responsibly managed forests. Therefore, the supplies will be there for generations to come.
Properties
Common Name(s): Cypress, Baldcypress
Scientific Name: Taxodium distichum
Distribution: Southeastern United States
Tree Size: 80-120 ft (24-37 m) tall, 3-5 ft (1-1.5 m) trunk diameter
Average Dried Weight: 32 lbs/ft3 (515 kg/m3)
Specific Gravity: (Basic, 12% MC): .42, .51
Janka Hardness: 510 lbf (2,270 N)
Modulus of Rupture: 10,600 lbf/in2 (73.1 MPa)
Elastic Modulus: 1,440,000 lbf/in2 (9.93 GPa)
Crushing Strength: 6,360 lbf/in2 (43.9 MPa)
Shrinkage: Radial: 3.8%, Tangential: 6.2%, Volumetric: 10.5%, T/R Ratio: 1.6