Defects
Check (Lumber Defect)
A crack or split along the grain of wood, usually caused by uneven drying or stress, that does not extend through the full thickness of the board.
In-Depth Explanation
Checks are surface-level separations in wood fibers that develop when the outer layers of a board dry and shrink faster than the interior. End checks are especially common because moisture escapes more rapidly through end grain. While small checks are often cosmetic and can be stabilized with epoxy or CA glue, large checks compromise structural integrity. Proper end-sealing of freshly cut lumber and controlled drying significantly reduce checking. When buying lumber, inspect both faces and the ends to assess the severity of any checks before purchasing.
Usage Example
The end checks on the cherry boards were minor enough that we could trim an inch off each end and still get usable length.
Related Terms
dry-rot
moisture-content
kiln-dried