Ash Tree Bark Peeling (5 Signs Woodworkers Watch)

Ash Tree Bark Peeling: 5 Signs Woodworkers Watch

Let’s dive right in. Before we even talk about peeling bark, I want to address a common misconception. Many believe that all hardwoods are inherently durable and resistant to decay. This isn’t always true. The durability of wood depends on many factors, including species, growing conditions, and the specific part of the tree. So, why am I starting here? Because understanding this helps put the signs of bark peeling into context.

Why Bark Peeling Matters to Woodworkers

As a woodworker, the health of a tree, especially when considering it for lumber, is paramount. The bark is the tree’s protective layer, and when it starts to peel, it’s often a sign that something isn’t right. This can range from minor issues to severe problems that impact the wood’s quality and usability. Bark peeling can indicate diseases, insect infestations, or environmental stress, all of which can compromise the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of the wood.

Identifying Ash Trees: A Quick Primer

Before I get into the signs of bark peeling, let’s quickly ensure we’re all on the same page about identifying ash trees. Ash trees belong to the Fraxinus genus. In North America, the most common species are White Ash (Fraxinus americana) and Green Ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica).

Leaves: Ash trees have compound leaves, meaning each leaf is made up of multiple leaflets. Typically, there are 5-9 leaflets per leaf. The leaves are arranged oppositely on the branch (directly across from each other).
Branches: Ash trees have opposite branching patterns. This means that branches and buds grow directly across from each other, a key identifier.
Bark: The bark of mature ash trees has a distinctive diamond-shaped pattern. Younger trees have smoother bark.

Being able to correctly identify an ash tree is the first step in assessing its health and potential for woodworking.

5 Signs of Bark Peeling Woodworkers Watch

Here are five key signs of bark peeling that I pay attention to as a woodworker. These signs can indicate underlying issues that affect the quality and usability of the wood.

1. Vertical Cracks and Splits in the Bark

Vertical cracks and splits are often the first visible sign of stress in an ash tree. These cracks can range from small, hairline fractures to large, gaping splits that expose the inner wood.

What it indicates: These cracks can be caused by rapid changes in temperature or moisture levels, leading to expansion and contraction of the bark. They can also be a sign of sunscald, where the bark is damaged by excessive exposure to the sun. In some cases, vertical cracks can be an entry point for insects and diseases.
My experience: I once harvested an ash tree with minor vertical cracks. While the wood itself was still usable, the cracks had allowed moisture to penetrate, leading to some staining and discoloration near the surface. This resulted in more waste during milling.
What to look for: Examine the length, width, and depth of the cracks. Are they superficial, or do they extend deep into the wood? Are there any signs of insects or fungal growth within the cracks?
Actionable tip: If you notice vertical cracks, assess the overall health of the tree. If the cracks are minor and the tree appears otherwise healthy, it may still be suitable for woodworking. However, be prepared for potential waste and discoloration near the cracks.

2. Patchy Bark Loss with Exposed Wood

Patchy bark loss, where sections of bark fall off, exposing the underlying wood, is a more advanced sign of distress.

What it indicates: This can be caused by various factors, including fungal infections, insect infestations (particularly the Emerald Ash Borer, which I’ll discuss later), or physical damage. The exposed wood is vulnerable to further damage and decay.
My experience: I’ve seen ash trees where large sections of bark have fallen off, revealing extensive damage from wood-boring insects. In these cases, the wood was often riddled with tunnels and completely unusable.
What to look for: Check the edges of the bark patches. Are they smooth and clean, or are they ragged and chewed? Look for signs of insects, such as frass (insect excrement) or exit holes.
Actionable tip: If you see patchy bark loss, carefully inspect the exposed wood. If there are signs of extensive insect damage or decay, the tree may not be suitable for woodworking. If the damage is limited, you may be able to salvage some of the wood, but be prepared to remove the affected areas.

3. Unusual Bark Coloration or Discoloration

Healthy ash bark typically has a grayish-brown color. Any significant deviation from this color can be a sign of a problem.

What it indicates: Discoloration can be caused by fungal infections, bacterial diseases, or nutrient deficiencies. For example, a reddish or purplish discoloration might indicate a fungal infection, while a yellowing or browning of the bark could be a sign of nutrient stress.
My experience: I once came across an ash tree with a strange, bluish tint to the bark. Upon closer inspection, I discovered it was infected with a type of algae. While the algae itself didn’t directly damage the wood, it indicated that the tree was weakened and susceptible to other problems.
What to look for: Note any unusual colors or patterns on the bark. Is the discoloration uniform, or is it patchy? Are there any signs of fungal growth, such as mushrooms or mold?
Actionable tip: If you notice unusual bark coloration, try to identify the cause. Consult with a local arborist or forestry expert if necessary. If the discoloration is caused by a minor issue, the tree may still be usable for woodworking. However, if it’s a sign of a serious disease or infestation, the wood may be compromised.

4. Presence of Insect Exit Holes

Insect exit holes are small, round or oval-shaped holes in the bark, indicating that insects have emerged from the tree.

What it indicates: These holes are a clear sign of insect infestation, often by wood-boring insects like the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB). The EAB is a particularly devastating pest that has killed millions of ash trees in North America.
My experience: I’ve seen entire stands of ash trees decimated by the Emerald Ash Borer. The trees are often riddled with exit holes, and the wood is completely unusable. The EAB larvae feed on the inner bark, disrupting the flow of nutrients and eventually killing the tree.
What to look for: Examine the bark for small, D-shaped exit holes, which are characteristic of the Emerald Ash Borer. Also, look for signs of woodpecker activity, as woodpeckers often feed on EAB larvae under the bark.
Actionable tip: If you find insect exit holes, especially D-shaped holes, the tree is likely infested with the Emerald Ash Borer. In this case, the wood may not be suitable for woodworking, and you should consider contacting your local forestry agency for advice on managing the infestation.

5. Crown Dieback and Thinning

While not directly related to bark peeling, crown dieback and thinning are often associated with bark issues and can indicate a decline in the tree’s overall health. Crown dieback refers to the progressive death of branches from the tips inward, while thinning refers to a reduction in the density of the foliage.

What it indicates: Crown dieback and thinning can be caused by various factors, including root damage, nutrient deficiencies, drought stress, or insect infestations. These factors can weaken the tree, making it more susceptible to bark peeling and other problems.
My experience: I’ve noticed that ash trees with significant crown dieback often have extensive bark damage as well. The weakened trees are less able to defend themselves against insects and diseases, leading to a cascade of problems.
What to look for: Observe the upper branches of the tree. Are there many dead or dying branches? Is the foliage sparse and thin? Are the leaves smaller than usual?
Actionable tip: If you see crown dieback and thinning, assess the overall health of the tree. If the dieback is severe, the tree may not be suitable for woodworking. Even if the wood is still usable, it may be weaker and more prone to cracking or warping.

The Emerald Ash Borer: A Major Threat

I’ve mentioned the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) several times, and for good reason. This invasive insect is a major threat to ash trees in North America. Originally from Asia, the EAB was first discovered in the United States in 2002. Since then, it has spread rapidly, killing millions of ash trees.

Impact: The EAB larvae feed on the inner bark of ash trees, disrupting the flow of nutrients and water. This eventually kills the tree, often within a few years of infestation.
Identification: Adult EABs are small, metallic green beetles, about 1/2 inch long. The larvae are white, legless grubs that feed under the bark.
Signs of infestation: As mentioned earlier, D-shaped exit holes are a key sign of EAB infestation. Other signs include crown dieback, bark peeling, and increased woodpecker activity.
Management: There are several strategies for managing EAB infestations, including insecticide treatments and tree removal. However, these methods are often expensive and may not be effective in all cases.
What to do: If you suspect that an ash tree is infested with the EAB, contact your local forestry agency or arborist for advice. They can help you assess the situation and determine the best course of action.

Wood Quality Considerations

When assessing an ash tree for woodworking, it’s important to consider how bark peeling and other signs of distress can affect the quality of the wood.

Moisture content: Damaged bark can allow moisture to penetrate the wood, leading to increased moisture content. This can make the wood more difficult to dry and increase the risk of warping or cracking. Target moisture content for woodworking is typically between 6-8%.
Decay: Exposed wood is vulnerable to decay, which can significantly weaken the wood and make it unusable.
Insect damage: Wood-boring insects can create tunnels and galleries in the wood, weakening its structural integrity and making it unsightly.
Staining and discoloration: Moisture and fungal growth can cause staining and discoloration of the wood, affecting its aesthetic appeal.
Strength: The overall strength and durability of the wood can be compromised by bark peeling and other signs of distress.

Harvesting and Milling Considerations

If you decide to harvest an ash tree with bark peeling, there are several factors to consider during the harvesting and milling process.

Timing: Harvest the tree during the dormant season (late fall or winter) to minimize the risk of insect activity and decay.
Safety: Be aware of the potential hazards associated with harvesting trees, such as falling branches and unstable trees. Always wear appropriate safety gear, including a hard hat, eye protection, and hearing protection. I always recommend a professional assessment before felling any tree.
Milling: When milling the wood, be prepared to remove any damaged or decayed areas. Use a sharp saw blade to minimize tear-out and ensure a clean cut.
Drying: Properly dry the wood to prevent warping, cracking, and decay. Air-drying is a common method, but it can take several months or even years. Kiln-drying is a faster option, but it requires specialized equipment.
Sealing: Apply a wood sealant to the ends of the boards to prevent moisture loss and cracking.

Case Study: Salvaging Ash After EAB Infestation

I worked on a project a few years back where we attempted to salvage ash trees that had been infested with the Emerald Ash Borer. The goal was to see if we could still use the wood for furniture making, despite the infestation.

Assessment: We carefully assessed the trees, looking for signs of EAB damage, such as exit holes and crown dieback. We selected trees that had relatively minor damage, hoping that the wood would still be usable.
Harvesting: We harvested the trees during the winter months to minimize the risk of further insect activity.
Milling: We milled the logs into boards, carefully removing any areas with significant insect damage.
Drying: We kiln-dried the boards to ensure that they were properly seasoned.
Results: We were able to salvage a significant amount of wood from the infested trees. While some of the wood had minor insect damage, it was still suitable for use in furniture making. We used the wood to create a beautiful dining table and several chairs.
Lessons learned: This project taught us that it is possible to salvage ash trees that have been infested with the Emerald Ash Borer. However, it requires careful assessment, harvesting, and milling to ensure that the wood is still usable.

Best Practices for Working with Ash Wood

Whether you’re working with salvaged ash or healthy ash, here are some best practices to keep in mind:

Acclimation: Allow the wood to acclimate to your workshop environment before working with it. This will help to prevent warping and cracking.
Sharp tools: Use sharp tools to minimize tear-out and ensure a clean cut.
Proper joinery: Use strong and reliable joinery techniques to ensure that your projects are durable and long-lasting. Mortise and tenon joints, dovetail joints, and dowel joints are all good options.
Finishing: Apply a high-quality finish to protect the wood from moisture and wear. Polyurethane, varnish, and lacquer are all good choices.
Moisture control: Maintain a stable moisture content in your workshop to prevent the wood from expanding or contracting.

Safety First: Protecting Yourself

Working with wood can be dangerous if proper safety precautions are not taken. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

Wear safety glasses: Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris.
Wear hearing protection: Wear hearing protection when using noisy power tools, such as chainsaws and planers.
Wear a dust mask: Wear a dust mask to protect your lungs from wood dust.
Use proper ventilation: Work in a well-ventilated area to minimize exposure to wood dust and fumes from finishes.
Use sharp tools: Keep your tools sharp to prevent accidents. Dull tools are more likely to slip and cause injury.
Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to your surroundings and avoid distractions while working.
Take breaks: Take frequent breaks to avoid fatigue, which can lead to accidents.
First aid: Keep a well-stocked first aid kit in your workshop.

Sustainable Woodworking Practices

As woodworkers, we have a responsibility to practice sustainable woodworking. This means using wood responsibly and minimizing our impact on the environment.

Source wood responsibly: Purchase wood from sustainable sources, such as certified forests.
Use reclaimed wood: Consider using reclaimed wood from old buildings or furniture.
Minimize waste: Cut efficiently and use scrap wood for smaller projects.
Recycle wood: Recycle wood scraps whenever possible.
Plant trees: Plant trees to help replenish forests.
Support sustainable forestry: Support organizations that promote sustainable forestry practices.

Final Thoughts

Bark peeling on ash trees can be a concerning sign for woodworkers. By understanding the causes of bark peeling and the potential impact on wood quality, you can make informed decisions about whether to harvest and use the wood. Remember to always prioritize safety and sustainability in your woodworking practices.

The key takeaways are:

Bark peeling can indicate serious issues like disease or insect infestation.
Careful inspection is crucial to determine the extent of damage.
Salvaging wood is possible, but requires extra attention to detail.
Always practice safe and sustainable woodworking.

Ash Tree Bark Peeling (5 Signs Woodworkers Watch)