Sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus) Board Stock

Sycamore timber is creamy white to white with a natural lustre. Generally it has a straight grain although it can be wavy or curly which produces an attractive finish when quartered. The texture of Sycamore is fine and even. Average weight 610kg/m3.

Sycamore is of medium density, with medium bending and crushing strengths, it has low resistance to shock loads and very low stiffness. It also has a very good steam bending classification. Sycamore air dries well but can stain, very rapid surface drying will prevent this. When kiln drying a low temperature is best. Rapid drying preserves the white colour, slower drying techniques produce a pinky-brown colour. There is medium movement in service.

Sycamore works easily with hand and machine tools. Nails, glues, stains and polishes excellently. It is perishable, though the timber is permeable to preservative treatments. There are range of domestic uses and is commonly used as a decorative veneer.