Which part of white ash sapwood is preferred for veneer?

• A. The cambium
• B. The heartwood
• C. The white sapwood of the species
• D. The bark

Answer: (C)

Veneer quality in ash comes from using the outer, pale sapwood. This layer stays light and uniform in color, has straight, even grain, and peels cleanly into thin sheets, which is ideal for veneer production. In white ash, the white sapwood yields sheets that finish evenly and machine well, with fewer defects. Heartwood tends to be darker and contains more extractives, which can cause staining and uneven finishes, so it’s less desirable for standard veneer. The cambium and bark are growth tissue and outer protective layers, not suitable wood sources for veneer.