Wood Furniture
Traditionally, furniture has been made of wood, which is undeniably a staple material in furniture manufacturing. Solid wood furniture can last for generations with minimum care. Not only is wood everlasting, but it is timeless as well. Whether it is a new dining room table or an heirloom armoire, wood furniture combines an eternal beauty and that can be seen in almost every decorating style. The natural beauty of wood furniture will add warmth and character to any room.


Hardwoods
Hardwoods are produced by trees that reproduce by flowers and have broad leaves. They have a more complex structure than softwoods and are often much slower growing as a result. Quality furniture is generally made from hardwood which comes from deciduous trees like oak, maple, mahogany, teak, walnut, cherry and birch. Besides furniture, hardwoods are frequently used to make musical instruments.

Softwoods
Furniture may also be made from softwoods, which come from coniferous trees such as pine, fir, redwood and cedar. These trees tend to grow faster. Furniture made using softwood are less expensive than pieces made from hardwood. It's possible to find good quality furniture in these woods, but they require more care because they're more prone to scratches and dents.

Engineered Wood
Engineered wood, also known as composite or manufactured wood, is derived from wood products. It is not necessarily an inferior material. It is strong and is less subject to splitting or warping. Veneers are the most common form of engineered wood. Engineered wood can make sturdy, long-lasting and highly attractive furniture when it is made with high-quality veneers.
Wood Furniture Finishes
Every piece of furniture, whether new or antique, needs a finish, but no single finish is right for all situations. Finishes are divided into two categories: penetrating finishes and surface finishes. The best way to know the difference between penetrating wood finishes from surface wood finishes is to understand how they work.
Penetrating Finishes
A penetrating finish does exactly that, it penetrates the wood and dries inside the wood. Most penetrating finishes result in a more natural look. They seep deep into the wood grains and become hard. Most oil finishes fall into this category.
Surface Finishes
A surface finish stays on the surface and dries on the top layer of the wood. Surface finishes do not have a natural look or feel, but they tend to last longer. Most waxes, varnishes and shellacs fall into this category.
Although staining furniture is optional, a finish is essential to protect the wood's surface. Without a finish, wood will dry out, crack and deteriorate, or swell if it is exposed to moisture. A good finish protects against stains and enhances the appearance of the wood. Pieces that get a lot of daily use should be protected with a surface finish.
5 Reasons
to shop for secondhand furniture
You can often find expensive, time-tested, name-brand furniture in excellent condition at an affordable price.
Older furniture was meant to last a long time. Many secondhand pieces are handcrafted with top quality materials.
Shopping for secondhand furniture is a treasure hunt. You can find unique, one-of-a-kind pieces with a story to tell.
You can customize previously owned furniture. Fresh paint, stain and upholstery allow you to match a color scheme or style.
Buying secondhand furniture is better for the environment. It saves resources and reduces emissions, while reducing waste and packaging.
5 Tips
to care for & preserve wood furnishings
Limit direct sunlight exposure as much as possible. Over-exposure to direct sunlight will cause any finish to fade over time.
Avoid excessive waxing. This will cause moisture from a glass to leave a white milky ring on the surface of the wood.
Avoid excessive exposure to smoke. Wood is a porous surface that will absorb the odor will cause the finish to yellow.
Don’t use cleaners containing bleach. Bleach will lighten or remove the wood’s natural color and can damage the wood grain.
Don’t use cleaners containing ammonia. Ammonia will dull and discolor some types of wood and cause a painted finish to yellow.