A tree can be dissected in any number of ways to produce usable lumber. Generally, long beams are cut from the center with the surrounding areas sliced into planks of desired thickness. The natural edges of the tree are removed to ensure smooth edges and surfaces.
A tree must be cut into thick slices all the way through to produce what is known as a slab. A single tree may be cut into six or more slabs. Most labs preserve the natural edges of the tree. This preserves the natural beauty of the wood and also guarantees that every wooden slab is unique. It is very important that the slabs you choose have been kiln dried to between 7 and 9 percent moisture content. This ensures that your table will not “move.”
Every tree is going to show different signs of the life it lived. Its life will be reflected in the unique characteristics of the wood. There may be scars from wildlife, knots in the wood, or large cracks that can be filled with epoxy and even bullets from target practice!. These characteristics make every custom slab table something beautiful to look at and even study momentarily. In comparison, most tables use wood that has been transformed so dramatically you forget that it was once a tree.
