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Have questions about buying wood furniture? You’re not alone. With the range of styles, finishes and colors available, buying wood furniture can seem overwhelming. Here are some commonly asked questions & answers.
1. How do I tell if the furniture I’m buying is good quality? Open drawers and look for signs of quality, such as construction technique and joint assembly. Joint techniques like dove tailing, or dowel are superior to others. Slide drawers in and out to determine their fit, and safety functions like drawer stops. Test the piece for stability - well manufactured products are rigid, and sturdiest in areas receiving the most stress or bearing the most weight. Finally, inspect the composition and finish - is it solid wood, laminate, or is it veneer, and what kind of finish and sealant completes the piece. Do a full, top to bottom inspection of the product . 2. What’s the difference between solid wood, veneer and laminate? There’s so much out there, and it’s hard to tell what I’m buying. Solid hardwood means the grain of the lumber will carry through the core. Solid hardwood allows for pieces to be carved or lathe-turned, offering more detail in the wood’s presentation. Hardwood veneers are thin slices of wood, bonded to another composite wood product like plywood or particle board. Laminates are a printed imitation hardwood surface that is applied usually to a composite wood product like particle board. This simulated wood grain or other pattern is reproduced out of paper, plastic or foil and then bonded to the base product. Because laminating is a surface treatment, this process doesn’t allow for any carving or detailing in the finish and is typically more simple in appearance. 
3. If I can afford it, would solid wood be the best choice? With advances in technology, today’s combination of wood veneers and laminates may be difficult to distinguish from solid wood composition. Solid wood furniture is an investment and has its benefits, but it’s more susceptible to changes in humidity than a veneered or laminate piece. In a dry environment wood contracts, while in moist conditions it expands. Inspect how the manufacturer has compensated for humidity changes. Solid woods products usually are made in smaller pieces and glued to make up larger surfaces which prevents warping and cracking with changes in humidity. 4. What’s the difference between softwoods and hardwoods? Softwoods, such as pine, spruce, and fir are from coniferous (needle bearing) trees, and are picked for their casual earthly appearance. Hardwoods such as, oak, maple, and ash come from deciduous (leaf bearing) trees, and have been used throughout history for the finest furniture and architectural detail. Most hardwoods are stronger and are less likely to dent than softwoods. Hardwoods are generally used in the construction of upholstery frames to secure nails and screws in high impact areas. 5. There’s such a price difference between types of wood furniture is it true that you get what you pay for? Prices are determined by the style and quality of the piece and whether it was made of solid wood, veneer, laminate or a combination. Whether it was imported or locally manufactured can also affect price. Cost of products made from laminates, which are simple in design and construction, are usually lower priced than those made of solid wood. Before purchasing a product, ask your retailer how it was manufactured. 6. Is there anything I should be aware of when I move my furniture around? First, follow any shipping, unpacking or assembly instructions supplied by the manufacturer. Most manufacturers strongly suggest you lift your furniture rather than pushing or dragging it. Typically, the more you move it, the more susceptible it becomes to damage. 7. Are there any tips on selecting a style that I’ll be happy with for many years? What should I consider when selecting a style of furniture? Furniture preferences are personal. Try to avoid impulsive buying by carefully considering where and how the piece will be used in your home, and your budget. Buying classic or traditional styled furniture will never be a mistake - the traditional look is timeless. 8. Should there be a finish on the wood? Is it necessary to “oil” a product to keep it from drying out? Oiling furniture was the original method used to preserve/protect the life of wood products. However it is a high maintenance process, and doesn’t offer adequate protection for the wood. Today, most wood furniture should be finished or covered in a sealant to close off the pores of the grain. Sealers produce a smooth level surface, while offering protection from heat, dryness, moisture and alcohol. A sealant can also enhance or alter the color of the wood product. 9. Are some kind of woods easier to take care of, and how do I care for/clean wood furniture? The type of finish on your wood furniture will determine how easily your furniture can be cleaned. The care of any wood is based on the wood’s finish and how it’s treated, not the wood itself. The better the finish, the longer the product will maintain its appearance. Today, casegoods are usually finished with a sealant that requires only wiping with a damp cloth. Review the manufacturer’s instructions about the care of your specific finish. 10. How do I repair my furniture if it gets scratched or nicked? Can I do it myself? Solid wood products, can usually be repaired, by sanding and refinishing with a touch-up kit. If the product is treated with a manufacturer’s seal, consult your retailer for repair instructions or purchase a touch-up kit. Veneered and laminated products may also be re-finished, however a professional should be considered for more severe damage.
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