Difference between Solid Wood and Processed Wood in Furniture Making

Kistang - You really need to know the difference between solid wood and processed wood before deciding to make or if you want to buy a furniture product. The two types of wood have many differences that are important for you to know.

First of all you need to know that in making furniture there are indeed several materials that can be used as the main material. Among the materials often used in making furniture is solid wood. On the other hand, many also use processed wood as the main material in making furniture.

The definition of solid wood is wood that is still pure. The wood is wood cut down from the forest and can be directly used as material for making furniture. Some wood that can be classified as solid wood includes teak, mahogany, trembesi, pine and so on. These woods usually have grown in the forest for many years and can only be used as furniture materials.

Meanwhile, the definition of processed wood is wood that has gone through a processing process. From the name alone, it can be understood that this type of wood is man-made or not natural. The wood is composed of various mixtures of particles. In its manufacture it requires several materials including sawdust from solid wood, glue, which is then pressed in such a way with a tool to form a board.

With the naked eye, this processed wood will still show the mixed ingredients. Processed wood types themselves have several types including multiplex (plywood), MDS (Medium Density Board), Blockboard and so on. The difference between solid wood and processed wood will be very visible.

In ancient times, the main material in the manufacture of a building was solid wood. They make various buildings such as houses, cupboards, boats all using solid wood, for example using teak wood. The reason for using this type of wood is because of its quality and durability.

The use of processed wood for furniture can be said to have started to bloom in modern times along with technological developments. Indeed, this technology really helps people to get materials to make various furniture or buildings. But of course, the quality of processed wood cannot beat the quality of solid wood.

Solid vs Processed Wood

Solid wood and processed wood, also known as engineered wood or composite wood, are two different materials commonly used in furniture making. Here are the key differences between them:

Composition

Solid Wood: Solid wood furniture is made entirely from natural wood. It is crafted from a single piece or multiple pieces of solid lumber, such as oak, mahogany, pine, or cherry.

Processed Wood: Processed wood is made by combining various wood products or fibers with adhesives and resins. It includes materials like plywood, particleboard, medium-density fiberboard (MDF), and engineered wood products.

Natural Characteristics

Solid Wood: Each piece of solid wood has its own unique grain patterns, color variations, and natural imperfections. These natural characteristics add to the beauty and individuality of the furniture.

Processed Wood: Processed wood lacks the natural variations found in solid wood. It is typically more uniform in appearance and lacks distinct grain patterns.

Strength and Durability

Solid Wood: Solid wood furniture is generally considered more durable and long-lasting. It can withstand heavy use and has good structural integrity.

Processed Wood: Processed wood is engineered to be strong and stable, but its durability can vary depending on the specific type and quality. Some processed wood products, such as high-quality plywood or solid-core MDF, can be quite durable, while others may be more susceptible to damage and wear.

Cost

Solid Wood: Solid wood furniture tends to be more expensive due to the higher cost of raw materials and the labor-intensive nature of working with solid lumber.

Processed Wood: Processed wood furniture is often more affordable since it can be manufactured using lower-cost wood products and technologies.

Environmental Impact

Solid Wood: Solid wood furniture, when sourced responsibly from sustainably managed forests, is considered a renewable and eco-friendly choice.

Processed Wood: Processed wood can be made from recycled wood fibers or by utilizing fast-growing tree species. However, the manufacturing process often involves the use of adhesives and resins, some of which may contain formaldehyde or other chemicals that can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air.

Both solid wood and processed wood have their own advantages and considerations. The choice between them often depends on factors such as budget, desired aesthetic, durability requirements, and personal preferences regarding sustainability.

Share :