Investing in wooden furniture has many benefits, from authenticity to durability, but with different woods come different qualities to consider. Each type comes with a different set of characteristics in terms of color, density, grain, and finishing. As such, when it comes to choosing the best wood for your furniture, understanding its properties is a must. Here are some important points to consider when buying wooden furniture:
Solid Wood is king among all wooden furniture. It tends to be on the more expensive side of the spectrum, specifically because it is more durable. It can be recognized by its edges – look for signs of single piece wood with irregular veins. Solid wood furniture includes pieces made of oak, maple, walnut, and mahogany.
Plywood can be strong and last a long time if it is made of enough layers. Look for pieces that include at least nine or more layers of wood and resin by examining an exposed side of the plywood furniture. For example, if looking at a dresser, inspect the spots where joints come together (such as the back), it should have an edge where the plywood layers are visible.
Veneer Wood consists of value wood covered with a layer of higher quality wood (natural or synthetic). It isn’t as durable as its contenders, but it is strong and can create beautiful pieces. It may not split as much as solid wood but may blister or start to peel over time. To avoid these problems, look for pieces covered with thin layers of veneer rather than thick ones by examining the bottom parts of the pieces you are considering.
Whichever wooden pieces you choose, they are bound to add some warmth and natural charm to your home. Another benefit of wooden furniture is that they can be altered and customized in the future, making the return on your investment everlasting!