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Interior or exterior: recommended species
Exterior doors: white oak and sapele mahogany only. No other species in the catalog is offered for exterior use, as their resistance to humidity and freeze-thaw cycles does not meet MICHELENA’s durability standards. Interior doors: all eight catalog species are available. The choice is aesthetic and driven by consistency with the rest of the home. Custom millwork (kitchens, offices, walk-in closets, tables, wall paneling): the same eight species, depending on the desired look.
Guide to species we work with
The wood species worked by MICHELENA
Eight noble species in the catalog, with exotic species available on request. Properties, durability, grain and recommended uses for each.
Species catalog
Eight noble species, one strict rule for exterior
MICHELENA works with eight solid wood species in the catalog: white oak, red oak, sapele mahogany, maple, birch, cherry, black walnut and poplar. For exterior doors, only two species are used: white oak and sapele mahogany, chosen for their performance under climate variations. For interior doors and custom millwork, all eight species are available. More exotic species can also be sourced on request depending on the nature of the mandate.
Species in the catalog
Main characteristics by species
Eight solid wood species, each chosen for its properties. The choice depends on the project context, the style and the expected performance.
White oak
Very hard, stable, pronounced grain, excellent moisture resistance. Interior and exterior.
Red oak
Hard, more open grain, warm rosy tone. Favored indoors.
Sapele mahogany
Stable, regular grain, deep red-brown tone. Exterior and custom work.
Maple
Hard, fine grain, light and even tone. Modern interiors.
Birch
Dense, fine grain, pale tone. Cabinetry and clean interior doors.
Cherry
Fine grain, warm tone that darkens over time. Intimate atmospheres.
Black walnut
Rich grain, deep dark-brown tone. High-end cabinetry.
Poplar
Soft, regular grain, light tone, often painted.
How to choose
Selection criteria by project type
The species choice depends on four factors: location (interior or exterior), architectural style, required level of durability, and the visual rendering sought.
Catalog summary
Quick recap
The eight species worked by MICHELENA, their characteristics and uses, at a glance.
- Exterior: white oak and sapele mahogany only, no exceptions
- Interior and custom: white oak, red oak, sapele mahogany, maple, birch, cherry, black walnut, poplar
- Exotic species available on request for specific projects
- Samples of species and finishes provided before validation
- Standard thicknesses - from 1¾ inch to 5 inches for doors
- Finishes available - matte varnish, satin, natural, custom stain, or paint
Questions about species
Frequently asked questions about wood selection
A species is not just a wood color; it determines climate resistance, ability to be stained, insulation and availability. Five questions come back often. Here they are.
Sapele mahogany offers excellent dimensional stability under humidity and temperature variations. White oak is a solid choice with superior hardness. Both are routinely used on MICHELENA exterior doors.
Technically yes, but the result varies with the grain. White oak and red oak absorb stain in a pronounced way (visible grain). Sapele mahogany has a more regular grain and absorbs stain more uniformly. A validation sample is provided before production.
Slightly. All solid wood species insulate better than steel or aluminum. Differences between species are marginal. Panel thickness and weatherstripping quality determine overall thermal performance.
Yes, on request. The workshop can source exotic species (teak, ebony, rosewood and others) when the project justifies it. Extra lead time and additional cost apply to these off-catalog orders.
Yes. Species and finish samples are available on request. They can be presented at the St-Eustache workshop or delivered to the architect’s, designer’s or client’s office.
Need help choosing?
The team guides you to the right species
Describe the project and the atmosphere you are seeking. Our team recommends the species and finish best suited, with physical samples to validate the choice.
