Randy
We build hardwood stairs. Straight's, curved, spirals.
Ive probably heard….20? different 'reasons' why we come across the multiple's of different problem's so often. The ones I consider to be most valid are climate(in Alberta) and improper kiln drying(supposedly can be a difficult species to dry properly, and is often dried to quickly).
One reason (in regard to Jatoba quite often being completely covered with small checks) I was given buy a guy who's fairly knowledgeable of the Hardwood lumber industry is that, quite often these tree's which can often be over 100' tall aren't felled 'properly….whatever 'properly' means, and they're so tall and heavy, they hit the ground with such force that it stresses the wood fibers to such a degree that it makes it very difficult to kiln dry properly. Take that for what it's worth.
If you ever need to go the Jatoba rout again, try Upper Canada Forest Products, the typically have the best quality material (for everything, not just Jatoba) but still can be a crap shoot.
