Differences between seasoned oak and green oak conservatory frames

It's down to the amount of moisture

Seasoned oak and green oak are both from the same oak tree, but what is the difference between the two?

Essentially, the level of moisture in the timber is the key difference. The amount of moisture in the oak is affected by when the tree was felled, when it was then cut and how much the oak has dried since being cut. Once oak is cut, it begins to dry naturally.

What is Green Oak?

Not to be confused with the colour green, green oak, essentially, is fresh unseasoned sawn timber oak, sometimes known as freshly sawn oak. Green oak will have been cut within 3-18 months after being felled, meaning the moisture content is high, usually between 60-80%.

As green oak is relatively fresh, the initial high moisture content means green oak is susceptible to movement because as it begins to dry out, it will shrink, move and split.

This means green oak is not the preferred oak to use anywhere near glass, such as in conservatories, orangeries and garden rooms, also door and window frames.

You would not want to run the risk of the oak shrinking and causing gaps and leaking windows!

As a result, we do not use Green Oak for any Hallmark Glazed Extensions.

Green oak is better suited to other uses, such as constructional beams, as it is easier to cut due to the higher moisture content.

What is Seasoned Oak?

Seasoned Oak, is oak that is felled, cut into boards around 20-50mm in thickness, separated with small battens to allow the timber to breathe, and stacked outside, allowing the oak to dry naturally to reduce the moisture content to around 13%.

Seasoning is the process of reducing the moisture content in timber to a stable level.

This drying process can take between 3 to 10 years. The thicker the oak, the longer the drying process takes. As an idea, it takes around 1 year per 25mm thickness for the oak to season appropriately. As this is a slow seasoning process, the stacked boards will stay relatively flat and straight.

Oak that has been allowed to season properly reduces the risk of any movement in the timber. This means seasoned oak is ideal for oak frames used in the construction of Orangeries, Conservatories and Garden Rooms where there is a lot of glazing.

Hallmark only use seasoned oak in the construction of all our oak orangeries, conservatories and garden rooms.

You can read more in our oak glazed extensions here. 

Hallmark Seasoned Oak Framed Conservatories

We only use the best and most suitable seasoned oak for all our conservatories, orangeries and garden rooms, creating a high-quality addition to your home.

Hallmark Glazed Extensions offer exceptional craftsmanship, sustainable practices, and a commitment to customer satisfaction. With our expertise and attention to detail, you can be confident in the quality and beauty of your oak-glazed extension for years to come.

We would be delighted to discuss how a natural oak-framed conservatory can enhance your home.