Hickory is known for its striking contrast between light sapwood and darker heartwood, often seen in what’s called “Calico Hickory.” Its light to medium brown heartwood, touched with reddish hues, pairs with pale yellowish sapwood for a bold, rustic look that stands out in flooring, cabinetry, and millwork.
The grain is typically straight with a medium texture, though some boards may feature waves that add to its natural charm. While not naturally rot-resistant and prone to insect damage, Hickory’s exceptional strength and density make it a top choice for demanding interior applications.
It can be challenging to work with due to its hardness and tendency for tearout, so sharp tools and proper machinery (like carbide blades or helical heads) are recommended. Despite the difficulty, it stains and finishes beautifully—and its durability and aesthetic payoff are well worth the effort.
FAS (Firsts and Seconds) Hickory features the highest quality boards with minimal knots and defects. This grade showcases longer, wider boards with consistent grain and a smoother appearance, ideal for high-end flooring, cabinetry, and furniture where clarity and visual consistency are important. It brings out the refined side of Hickory while still retaining its signature contrast between heartwood and sapwood.
Character-grade Hickory embraces the natural beauty of the wood’s imperfections. Expect visible knots, color variation, mineral streaks, and mixed sapwood and heartwood that create a bold, rustic look. This grade is perfect for applications where warmth, personality, and a more natural, lived-in style are preferred—commonly used in farmhouse flooring, accent walls, and cabinetry.
#2 Grade Hickory offers the strength and durability the species is known for, with more natural variation in color, knots, and grain. This character-rich lumber features a rustic appearance that highlights the bold contrasts of light and dark tones unique to hickory. It’s a practical choice for projects where structural integrity is important, and a more natural, less refined aesthetic is desired.
Ideal for applications like farmhouse-style flooring, rustic cabinetry, furniture, or exposed ceiling beams, #2 Hickory provides a cost-effective option without compromising on performance.
