Elm wood comes from the elm tree, and it is highly prized for its aesthetic beauty and durability. Many different items are made from elm wood, including chairs, coffins, and cabinets. Throughout history, elm has been a popular wood chosen by homeowners and cabinet makers alike. During the 19th and 20th century, elm trees were planted throughout many neighborhoods, since these trees create an immense amount of shade.
There are numerous types of elm trees ranging from the American Elm to the English Elm. Due to the fact that elm trees are relatively resistant to pollution and other environmental changes, these trees can be found throughout the world. While still popular, many elm trees around the world are dying due to Dutch Elm Disease (DED).
Dutch Elm Disease originated in Asia, though the disease was brought to North America when North Americans began to plant elms. This disease is caused by the elm bark beetle, and an elm infected with this disease usually dies. Elms can become infected if an elm bark beetle is able to reach a tree, if a tree has been cut with shears that have been used to trim an infected tree, or if a tree comes in contact with a tree that is infected.
While some fungicides may be able to prevent DED from spreading, in most instances, this type of treatment does not work. Thus, many elms that have been plagued by DED must be cut down. In some parts of the world, keeping an elm tree that has been infected with DED is illegal. Elms that have not been exposed to DED tend to live for a very long time.
Elm wood is extremely valuable, since this type of wood is largely water-resistant. Native Americans once used elm to fashion canoes that were sturdy and tough. Today, elm is mostly used to make furniture. Cabinets and furniture made from elm wood tend to be more expensive than items made from other woods, and these items last for many years.
Before purchasing any type of elm wood, it is important to find out about the history of the wood. Since elm wood can be disease-filled, it is wise to purchase this type of wood only from a reputable retailer. Elm scrap wood should not be purchased unless the wood is completely disease-free. Elm is an ideal wood for a number of different applications when it is not infected with DED.
