There are many different types of wood, each with its own properties and uses. Some are harder than others, or easier to work with. Some woods are more prone to cracking, splitting, or warping over time.
Each type of wood also has its own aesthetic appeal, making it a great choice for accenting furniture rather than the main material used. Wood is an excellent choice for tables and chairs because it can be crafted into almost any shape while still being functional and affordable.
Wood doesn’t warp easily like some other materials such as metal or plastic. Wood is also relatively lightweight but extremely sturdy if properly constructed. An unfinished wooden chair or table will last for decades without showing wear unless it’s exposed to extreme conditions like sunlight and humidity on a regular basis.
If you need something that’s both cost-effective and long-lasting, choosing wooden furniture may be the perfect solution for your home!
When you think of a table, what comes to mind? Probably something rectangular with four legs and a smooth surface. But why is that so? Why not something more unusual, such as a trapezoid or octagon? The same goes for chairs: why are they almost always straight-backed rather than bucket seats or something else?
The answer lies in the properties of wood. It’s extremely versatile, which is why it’s used so much in furniture-making. Wood has great strength but is also light enough to be easily moved around.
As well as being able to stand up to heavy use and not splinter like some other materials, it also looks attractive when finished and can be stained or varnished to protect it from damage. Read on to find out more about the properties of wood that make it perfect for making tables and chairs.
Why is wood used to make tables and chair
For thousands of years, wood has been a common building material. It’s a natural material that’s been refined over time for utility and aesthetic appeal. Wood is also readily available in many different types depending on your needs and tastes. There are many reasons to use wood to make tables and chairs.
Wood is sturdy, durable, and won’t warp like some other materials. It can be stained or painted in a variety of colors for a custom look. Wood also comes in many different thicknesses, allowing for easy customization. Wood is easy to shape into any design, making it perfect for tables and chairs.
Since wood can be sanded and carved, it’s easy to create unique pieces that fit your style. While the wood is unfinished, you can finish it with paint or stain to make it look more polished. If you’re building furniture like a table or chairs, you can easily modify the size to fit your needs.
Is Wood the Right Material for You?
If you’re deciding what material to use for a table or chairs, you should consider all of your options. Each wood type has its advantages and disadvantages, so you may find that something else would be a better choice for your needs.
A Hardwood - Hardwood trees have wide, thick trunks and are typically found in colder climates because they need a large amount of rainfall. These trees grow more slowly than other types of wood and are more expensive due to the difficulty of harvesting them. Hardwood is more durable than softwood, making it a good choice for heavy-use areas.
Wood resistant to decay, but you may find that it requires more maintenance than softwood. Hardwood can be more difficult to carve and shape than other materials. It may also be more expensive than other types of wood. If you want a long-lasting and durable table or chairs, hardwood may be the right choice for you.
What are some common types of wood used in furniture?
Alder: Alder is lightweight, soft, and easy to carve. It’s a good wood for decorative woodworking projects, like carving. It also works well for furniture, including tables, chairs, and cabinets. Alder is also easy to paint and stains well. Alder is dark and rich, but not as dark as cherry. Alder is moderately priced, which makes it a good choice for those on a budget.
Ash: Ash is a hardwood that’s commonly used in cabinets, furniture, and other household items. It’s easy to stain and paint, making it a great choice for decorative pieces. Ash can also be used for outdoor furniture and landscaping, although it’s not as durable as other woods when exposed to the elements.
Ash is moderately priced and easy to work with, making it a great choice for beginners. It also holds screws well, making it a good choice for furniture.
Beech: Beech is a hardwood that’s strong and durable, but also easy to work with. It’s commonly used in furniture and other household items due to its strength and aesthetic appeal. Beech is dark, but it has a warm, reddish hue. It can be stained to create a variety of looks. Beech is moderately priced and can be used for both indoor and outdoor furniture.
Pros of using wood to make tables and chair
Wood is a naturally occurring material that’s been used to make furniture and other household items for centuries. There are many different types of wood to choose from, each with its own aesthetic appeal. It’s easy to shape and carve wood, making it perfect for decorative pieces.
Finished wooden furniture will last for years with proper care and maintenance. Even an unfinished wooden table or chairs will last for several months before needing to be replaced. Wooden furniture can be stained or painted, allowing you to customize the look of your pieces.
Cons of using wood to make tables and chair
Wood will naturally wear over time, especially if it’s not cared for properly. It can crack, split, and warp if it’s not treated with care. Wood is also more likely to hold bugs and insects, which may be noticeable if you aren’t careful.
Wood is also relatively expensive when compared to plastic or metal tables and chairs. You may also need to seal or finish your wooden furniture to protect it from damage, which can be a time-consuming task.
How to care for wooden tables and chairs
If you decide to use wooden tables and chairs, you’ll need to take care of them to extend their lifecycles. You should also take care to protect your wooden furniture from damage by others. Here are a few ways to keep your wooden furniture in good condition.
- Avoid placing heavy objects on wooden furniture, particularly tabletops. They won’t hold up like a wooden table or chair would.
- Clean wooden furniture regularly with a soft rag. Dirt, dust, and grime are more likely to accumulate on wood than other materials.
- Seal wooden furniture once a year to protect it from damage and staining.
- Avoid placing wooden furniture near sources of heat, including the kitchen and fireplace. Warping is likely if they’re not protected.
- Use coasters and place mats to prevent stains and water damage on tabletops and coffee tables.
Conclusion
For thousands of years, wood has been a common building material. It is a natural substance that has been enhanced for practicality and aesthetic appeal over time. Depending on your demands and preferences, wood is also easily accessible in a wide variety of varieties. There are several benefits to using wood to construct chairs and tables.
Wood is a strong, long-lasting substance that won't warp. For a unique aesthetic, it may be stained or painted in a variety of colors. Additionally, wood is available in a wide range of thicknesses, making customisation simple.
Using hardwood furniture has several benefits, including longevity and a rich aesthetic appeal. The expense, ease of staining, and possibility of warping are a few drawbacks, too. Wooden furniture could be the best option for you if you require durable, practical furniture.
