We used to offer it, but we received too many complaints about the natural color variation in hickory. Matching customer expectations to the reality of hickory’s highly varied color mix became a constant challenge. Because of this, we discontinued using the material about 8–10 years ago.

I am going to be building a timber frame house very close to your facility (near Washougal), and I want something that will fit with the rustic look that is appropriate for such a building. We had been thinking hickory would be perfect. I actually WANT that variation in color and grain. I also like the quality that I see on your website.

If I may parody Tom T. Hall, Alder’s too soft Maple’s too plain, Walnut sets my dark side in gear…

Which begs the question: what material can you offer that would have an appropriate look for my house?

Honestly, clearcoat white oak is probably the closest we can get to hickory in terms of overall look and feel. White oak is extremely hard, has a similar color tone, and features a heavy, textured grain — in some ways even more pronounced than hickory. Personally, I prefer the rift cut white oak, especially with kids around who treat my kitchen like a chew toy. It hides wear and tear better and still looks sharp while having a primal rustic feel IMO.