Solid Wood vs Engineered Wood: Which is Better for Furniture?
When it comes to furnishing your home, wood is one of the most common materials used in various items, from tables, wardrobes, flooring, and more. However, did you know that not all wood is the same? There are two types of wood that are commonly used for furniture, solid wood and engineered wood. What are the differences between them and which one should you choose? Learn all about solid wood versus engineered wood here!
What Is Solid Wood?
Solid wood is natural timber from trees, such as oak, pine, or mahogany. It is usually found in the form of logs, planks, or slabs before being made into furniture. Solid wood contains wood fibres throughout, with no hollow spaces, fillers, or adhesives within them.
Solid wood can be further classified into hardwood and softwood. As the name suggests, hardwoods are generally denser, stronger, and more durable. They come from deciduous trees such as walnut, maple, and oak. On the other hand, softwood comes from cedar, fir, or pine trees. They are not as dense as hardwood, and more often used for construction projects instead of furniture.
What Is Engineered Wood?
Engineered wood, also called man-made or composite wood, is made by binding wood veneers and particles together with adhesives. Most wooden furniture in Singapore are made from engineered wood, as it is a more affordable and low-maintenance option.
Engineered wood comes in several types, with plywood being one of the most common, followed by particle board and medium-density fibreboard (MDF). Plywood is a specific type of engineered wood that is usually more durable and has better moisture resistance, making it ideal for furniture that is exposed to high moisture, such as kitchen cabinets. Understanding the difference between engineered wood versus plywood helps understand which one to choose when buying furniture.
Key Differences between Solid Wood and Engineered Wood
Now that we have covered the definition of solid wood versus engineered wood, let us dive deeper into the differences between them.
Durability
Solid wood has much longer durability than engineered wood. They can last for decades, even for a lifetime. Considering this, solid wood does offer better value for money in the long run, although the initial cost is higher. Engineered wood is less durable, but can still last quite a good amount of time, around 20-30 years.
Aesthetic Beauty
Home owners that are into aesthetics and creating an elegant space will appreciate the natural beauty of solid wood. Every type of wood has a unique type of grain and hue that can be selected based on the ambience you want to create. However, engineered wood can still complement both modern and classic interiors. Since it is man-made, it can still be customised into various colours and finishes, offering a bespoke look which suits diverse aesthetic tastes.
Resistance to Temperature and Moisture
Solid wood is known to be more easily affected by temperature and moisture changes. Without proper maintenance, they may experience warping or gapping. In contrast, engineered wood is less affected by the surrounding environment thanks to its layered construction. It is thus the more preferable option for furniture in areas often exposed to moisture and temperature changes, such as kitchens, basements, and bathrooms.
Resistance to Termites
Termites can cause unwanted damage to furniture such as weakened joints, and even collapsing. Certain types of solid wood, such as cedar and walnut, are known to have high resistance to termites, although most still need further chemical treatment to guarantee complete resistance. Engineered wood is not resistant to termites, and must be treated chemically to increase its durability.
Care and Cleaning
Due to their different structure and resistance, solid and engineered wood should be cared for slightly differently. For both types, regular sweeping and vacuuming can help remove dirt and debris. Damp-mopping is not advisable for solid wood, unless you use a specific cleaner recommended for solid wood. Engineered wood can still withstand damp-mopping once in a while. Additionally, solid wood furniture may need furniture pads to protect the surface from excessive moisture or scratches.
Initial Cost
Solid wood is generally more expensive as it comes from a natural resource and is more difficult to transport, while engineered wood is sold at a fraction of the cost. Engineered wood is thus the significantly more affordable option for homeowners looking to save costs.
Discover High Quality and Affordable Wooden Furniture for Your Home
Knowing the key differences between solid wood versus engineered wood is essential to help you choose the most suitable wooden furniture for your needs. In humid and hotter countries like Singapore, engineered wood may be more preferable as it is more resistant to environmental factors, and is more affordable. However, for those who desire furniture with authentic natural beauty that can last for decades, solid wood furniture may be the right pick.
Planning to buy furniture online in Singapore? Warehaus offers a diverse selection of functional, stylish, and affordable furniture for your space. Reach out to us and we will be happy to recommend the best wooden furniture for your home.
