In the architectural and interior design industry, many trends make a comeback after several decades, prompted by new technologies or design innovations. One such trend that has witnessed a rebirth in the last couple of years is the use of burl wood, which is extensive across the world today. Continue reading to learn all about what burl wood is, types of burl in timber and how burl woodworking and burl veneer are being used in the design industry today.
What is a Wood Burl?
Burl is a type of natural defect in timber that forms irregular growths and disturbed grain patterns in trees. Physical factors (such as injuries and environmental stress) or biological factors (like fungal/ bacterial/ viral infections, insect infestations and dormant bud growth) can cause these deformations in different parts of trees. Although they are technically defects, the abnormal shapes and grain patterns of burl wood pieces have made them interesting materials for use in architectural and interior design.
Why is Burl Wood Trending?
Burl wood has several qualities that make it a sought-after aspect of design, including:
- Aesthetics: Every burl growth is unique, with singular grain patterns and shapes. These patterns and shapes cannot easily be replicated even with modern construction technology and engineered wood products. Thus, the aesthetic quality offered by natural burl is extremely valued.
- Rarity: Since a burl does not develop on every tree, it is hard to find and even harder to source. The rarity of these growths makes them more fascinating to designers and property owners, leading to their popularity as collectible items.
- Sustainability: Most wooden products used in design are produced as a result of cutting down trees. However, burl can typically be obtained without cutting the entire tree, just the required section. Burls have also been considered waste products in the past, and today, their use in design is a conversion of waste to wealth. Thus, the sourcing of this natural element is not harmful and encourages sustainable building practices.
Types of Burl in Timber
Based on the Grain Patterns
Every burl growth has distinct grain patterns. However, some of the common ones observed are:
- Straight Grain: Parallel straight or slightly curvilinear grain lines along one direction of the burl.
- Curly Grain: Due to pressure variations in trees growing on sloped surfaces, waves, swirls or curls are formed.
- Bird’s Eye Burl: These have formations that resemble dark “eyes” on the wood surface and are extremely rare and valuable.
- Lace Burl: Small curvilinear grains form interlocking patterns.
- Figured Grain: Unique grain patterns without any definable features; these are more commonly available.
Based on the Location
Based on the location of the burl in the tree, the common types are:
- Root Burl: Formed due to intense pressures under the ground and characterised by elaborate patterns.
- Limb Burl: Small in size but have complex patterns.
- Trunk Burl: Largest in size and typically has widely-spaced grain patterns.
Based on the Tree Type
Some of the common hardwood burl types used in design today are:
- Redwood Burl: Characterised by reddish-brown portions with curling grain patterns and a distinct smell.
- Maple Burl: Colours ranging between beige and golden brown form this burl with complex interlocking grains.
- Elm Burl: This burl has light to medium dark brown colours with very unique grain patterns.
- Walnut Burl: Rich dark brown colours and intricate grain patterns with a higher ability to resist warping are features of this burl type.
Aside from these commonly used tree burl types, other types of wood from trees like chestnut, oak, poplar, willow and teak also often have beautiful burl growths.
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How are Wood Burls Used in Design Today?
Burl veneer wood is formed by cutting solid burls into slices with 0.6mm to 2mm thicknesses. Veneer sheets allow burls to be used over larger surface areas and are more easily available.
Solid tree burl wood and burl wood veneer are used in multiple aspects of design, including:
- Wall, Floor and Ceiling Panels: Wood cladding panels for ceilings, floors and walls can be completely made with burl veneer or have burl wood parts. Most often, burl veneer is stuck to rigid underlayers made of plywood or MDF to create stable panels that can be easily installed.
- Furniture: ‘Living edge wood’ furniture such as dining tables, countertops, center tables and bedside tables are very popular in interior design today. Such furniture products are commonly made of solid burl wood pieces and showcase the beauty of the natural, untrimmed and raw edges of trees.
- Storage Elements: Wardrobes, TV units, bookshelves, shoe racks and other storage cabinets can be lined with burl veneer. Here, the flexibility of the sheets allows curvilinear edges and surfaces to be finished with ease.
- Sculptural Elements: Solid burl can be used to create lighting fixtures, innovative legs for tables and chairs, bowls, art pieces and other such decor elements. Such decorative items in interior design often become statement pieces due to the unique grain patterns and irregular shapes of burl wood pieces.
Maintenance of Burl Wood
As with all other wood products, burl also needs to be protected against rotting and pest infestations. Solid burl wood especially requires special care since it typically has uncut edges. Here are a few tips to preserve burl wood products:
- Polishing: Periodic recoats of polish (glossy/ matte/ satin/ other finishes) must be applied along the direction of the grains. This is more vital in regions with high humidities to prevent rotting.
- Cleaning: Use a soft and dry cloth for regular dusting and mild soap with water for deeper cleaning. Avoid harsh chemicals.
- Daily Usage: Avoid sharp objects around burl wood as they can cause irreparable dents and scratches. Liquid spillages can lead to staining and must be immediately wiped, while prolonged sun exposure must be prevented as it can result in fading and discolouration.
Using Burl Wood in Your Project
Unlike regular timber, burl wood is emerging as a sustainable construction material and is a representative of how waste can successfully be transformed to create beautiful products. Its rarity and unique visual qualities make it a fascinating object to be used in modern architectural and interior design. Brick & Bolt, a distinguished construction company in India, uses the latest technologies and most exceptional materials in its building projects. To explore more such eco-friendly and innovative materials in your residential or commercial construction projects, reach out to Brick & Bolt today!