How To Identify Wood Veneer Types [Get Answer]

Wood Veneer Identification A Quick Guide

Wood veneer is a thin slice of wood that is used to cover a less expensive or less attractive substrate. It can be used to create a variety of looks, from the natural beauty of real wood to the more exotic look of burled or figured veneers.

Identifying wood veneer types can be tricky, but it’s not impossible. By knowing a few key things about veneer, you can easily tell the difference between real wood and a fake.

In this quick guide, we’ll teach you everything you need to know about identifying wood veneer types. We’ll cover everything from the different types of veneer to the telltale signs that a veneer is real or fake.

So whether you’re a woodworker, a furniture buyer, or just someone who’s curious about wood veneer, read on for all the information you need to know.

So How To Identify Wood Veneer Types?

How to Identify Wood Veneer Types

Appearance:
The appearance of wood veneer is often the easiest way to identify it. Some common types of wood veneer include maple, oak, cherry, and walnut.

Grain pattern:
The grain pattern of wood veneer can also be used to identify it. Maple veneer, for example, has a straight grain pattern, while oak veneer has a more wavy grain pattern.

Thickness:
The thickness of wood veneer can also be used to identify it. Most wood veneer is between 1 and 3 millimeters thick.

Finish:
The finish on wood veneer can also be used to identify it. Some common finishes include polyurethane, lacquer, and shellac.

How to Identify Wood Veneer Types

What is Wood Veneer?

Wood veneer is a thin sheet of wood that is glued to a substrate, such as plywood or MDF. It is used to create a variety of different looks and finishes, and it can be a more affordable option than using solid wood.

Types of Wood Veneer

There are many different types of wood veneer available, each with its own unique look and properties. Some of the most common types of wood veneer include:

Oak
Maple
Cherry
Walnut
Mahogany
Teak
Bamboo
Acacia
Poplar
Pine

How to Identify Wood Veneer

There are a few different ways to identify wood veneer.

Visual inspection:

The most obvious way to identify wood veneer is by looking at it. Wood veneer is typically thinner than solid wood, and it will often have a distinct grain pattern.

Touch:

Wood veneer is also typically smoother than solid wood. If you rub your fingers across the surface of a piece of wood, you should be able to feel the difference between the veneer and the substrate.

Sound:

Wood veneer will often produce a different sound when tapped than solid wood. Solid wood will typically produce a dull thud, while veneer will produce a higher-pitched sound.

Magnet:

If you hold a magnet to a piece of wood, it will not stick to veneer. This is because veneer is made from a non-magnetic material.

Tips for Identifying Wood Veneer

Here are a few tips for identifying wood veneer:

Look for the grain pattern. Wood veneer will typically have a distinct grain pattern that is different from the grain pattern of the substrate.
Feel the surface of the wood. Wood veneer is typically smoother than solid wood.
Tap the wood. Wood veneer will typically produce a higher-pitched sound than solid wood.
Use a magnet. If you hold a magnet to a piece of wood, it will not stick to veneer.

Conclusion

Wood veneer is a versatile material that can be used to create a variety of different looks and finishes. By following the tips in this article, you can easily identify wood veneer and use it to your advantage in your next woodworking project.

Also Read This: How To Know What Type Of Wood Floor You Have

FAQs: How to Identify Wood Veneer Types

What is wood veneer?

Wood veneer is a thin sheet of wood that is glued to a less expensive substrate, such as plywood or MDF. It is used to create a more attractive surface for furniture, cabinets, and other wood products.

How many types of wood veneer are there?

There are many different types of wood veneer, each with its own unique appearance and characteristics. Some of the most common types of wood veneer include:

Oak
Maple
Cherry
Walnut
Mahogany
Teak
Acacia
Bamboo

How can I tell what type of wood veneer is used on a piece of furniture?

There are a few ways to tell what type of wood veneer is used on a piece of furniture.

Visual inspection: The easiest way to identify wood veneer is to look at it closely. Different types of wood veneer have different grain patterns and colors, so you can often identify the type of wood by sight.

Touch: You can also identify wood veneer by touch. Some types of wood veneer are smoother than others, and some have a more pronounced grain pattern.

Smell: Some types of wood veneer have a distinctive smell. For example, oak veneer has a slightly sweet smell, while mahogany veneer has a more pungent smell.

Magnet test: You can also use a magnet to test wood veneer. If the veneer is magnetic, it is likely made from a softwood, such as pine or fir. If the veneer is not magnetic, it is likely made from a hardwood, such as oak or maple.

How do I care for wood veneer?

Wood veneer is a durable material, but it can be damaged if it is not properly cared for. Here are a few tips for caring for wood veneer:

Clean wood veneer with a soft cloth and mild soap and water: Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the veneer.

Do not place hot objects directly on wood veneer: This can cause the veneer to warp or crack.

Use coasters to protect wood veneer from water rings and scratches:

Polish wood veneer with a furniture polish once a month to keep it looking its best:

How can I repair damaged wood veneer?

If wood veneer is damaged, it can be repaired. Here are a few tips for repairing damaged wood veneer:

Small scratches and dents can be repaired with a wood filler: Allow the filler to dry completely, then sand it smooth.

Larger cracks or tears can be repaired with a veneer patch: A veneer patch is a thin piece of wood veneer that is cut to the same size as the damaged area. The patch is glued to the damaged area and sanded smooth.

If the veneer is completely damaged, it can be replaced: To replace the veneer, you will need to remove the old veneer and apply new veneer. This is a more difficult task and should be done by a professional.