Solid Wood Characteristics and Uniqueness

Madera de roble

Wood is a timeless and versatile material that has been used for centuries to create furniture of great beauty and durability. In this article, we will explore the characteristics and peculiarities of wood furniture, as well as its advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages

Disadvantages

Devoluciones

Wood furniture has the following distinctive advantages:

SUSTAINABILITY

Natural wood is the safest and most environmentally friendly material for the home environment. Unlike chipboard and other modern synthetic materials, solid wood does not contain artificial additives or harmful substances. Thanks to this, solid wood furniture retains its value for many centuries.

BEAUTY and WARMTH

Natural wood adds charm and warmth to any space. Each piece of wood has unique grains and shades, making it unique and attractive to the eye.

DURABILITY

Solid wood furniture is known for its resistance and durability. With proper care, they can withstand the test of time and maintain their original appearance for many years.

VERSATILITY

Wood can be worked and molded to fit different styles of decor. It can be painted, stained, or left in its natural tone, offering a wide range of design possibilities.

INTRINSIC VALUE

Solid wood furniture is considered an investment as its value tends to increase over time. Unlike synthetic materials, solid wood retains its value and appeal over the years.

ENERGY

Wood is a material created by nature and each species has its own influence on people. Depending on how the tree affects the body, it is classified as a giver (maple, oak, pine, acacia, beech, birch), vampire (poplar, willow, spruce, trembling poplar, chestnut) or in the neutral category (most other species).

COST

Solid wood furniture tends to be more expensive than furniture made with other materials. The quality and craftsmanship of solid wood can increase its price compared to more economical options.

MAINTENANCE

Wood furniture requires regular maintenance to maintain its beauty and durability. It may be necessary to apply sealers, oils, or waxes, as well as perform periodic repairs or touch-ups to prevent wear and damage.

SENSITIVITY TO ENVIRONMENT

Wood is a natural material that can be sensitive to changes in humidity and temperature. In very humid or dry environments, wood can expand, contract, or warp, which can affect the structural integrity of the furniture.

VULNERABILITY TO SCRATCHES AND BLOWS

Unlike other materials, wood is more prone to scratches and blows. Care must be taken when moving heavy or sharp objects near wooden furniture to avoid damage.

DESIGN LIMITATIONS

While wood can be worked and molded, it also has certain limitations in terms of complex shapes and structures. Some more elaborate designs may require specialized and expensive techniques.

7 Tips to care for wooden furniture

When it comes to caring for wooden furniture, there are various steps you can take to maintain its beauty and durability over time. Below, I will list some important recommendations for taking care of wooden furniture:

1. Clean your wooden furniture every day

Even if you don't see it, your furniture accumulates dirt every day from dust. Caring for wooden furniture involves cleaning it every day. If you allow dirt to build up, it can become dull and even stain. It won't take long to wipe down surfaces with a dry cloth to remove the day's dust.

2. Keep your wooden furniture out of the sun and water

This seems obvious, but over time the sun dries out the wood and causes it to shrink, causing cracks that later cause the furniture to spoil. Water also causes wood to warp. However, you should not only protect them from not getting wet but rather that the place where you are is not very humid. Moisture can cause wood to crack and soften.

3. Remove it from heat sources and air conditioning

The reason is very simple and has to do with what we mentioned in the previous section. The heat will cause the wood to shrink and spoil. Wooden furniture tarnishes if it is also in constant contact with air. Remove them from anywhere there is an air conditioner or a constant draft.

4. Use ammonia-free cleaning supplies

Read the labels of wood cleaners carefully and make sure they do not contain ammonia. Although it is advertised to clean wood furniture, in the long run, the ammonia will deteriorate the furniture, taking away its shine and color. We recommend that you instead opt for non-abrasive cleaners.

5. Use paste wax

First make sure you remove all the dust from your furniture before proceeding with the wax. Then, apply it evenly using a fiber cloth or blanket. If you do this once a week, you will have furniture looking its original for many years.

6. Do not put hot containers on it

There are insulators or cloths to place the hot containers on the wooden table. If you put them directly, you will cause a stain on the wood. Unless you re-sand and re-varnish the damaged surface, the stain will not disappear. Even if you use insulation, the heat will pass through that fiber and cause the wood to swell. Likewise, the wood could also discolor or soften, causing unpleasant stains on the wood.

7. Clean up spills or stains right away

If you really like to enjoy delicious coffee and put the cup on your wooden table, be careful. It is preferable that you place a plate under your cup. Similarly, if you have a small accident and coffee spills on your table, clean it up immediately. Caring for wooden furniture involves preventing liquids from spilling that could stain them. If any liquid is spilled, pick it up and don't let it dry on its own. If you let it sit for too long, the stain can soak into the wood, leaving an unsightly mark.