How To Tell The Type Of Wood In Furniture [Find Out]

Have you ever wondered what type of wood your furniture is made of

Wood is a natural material with a wide range of properties, from the hardness of maple to the softness of pine. Knowing the type of wood your furniture is made of can help you determine how to care for it properly and extend its lifespan. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the different ways to tell the type of wood in furniture, so you can make informed decisions about your purchases.

So How To Tell The Type Of Wood In Furniture?

How to Tell the Type of Wood in Furniture

There are a few ways to tell the type of wood in furniture.

Appearance:
The grain, color, and texture of wood can vary significantly from one species to another. By comparing the furniture to known types of wood, you can often identify the species used.

Weight:
Different types of wood have different densities. Heavier woods, such as oak and mahogany, are often used for furniture that needs to be sturdy, while lighter woods, such as pine and maple, are often used for furniture that needs to be more portable.

Sound:
When tapped with a coin or other hard object, different types of wood produce different sounds. The sound of a piece of furniture can help you identify the type of wood it is made from.

Odor:
Some types of wood have a distinctive odor. If you can smell the furniture, you may be able to identify the type of wood it is made from.

How to Tell the Type of Wood in Furniture

Visual Inspection

One of the easiest ways to tell the type of wood in furniture is to simply look at it. Different types of wood have different colors, grain patterns, and textures. By taking a close look at the furniture, you can often identify the type of wood it is made from.

Here are some things to look for:

Color:

The color of wood can vary depending on the species of tree it comes from, as well as the age of the tree and the growing conditions. Some common colors of wood include light brown, dark brown, red, yellow, and white.

Grain pattern:

The grain pattern of wood refers to the way the fibers are arranged. Different types of wood have different grain patterns, which can be straight, wavy, or curly.

Texture:

The texture of wood refers to how it feels to the touch. Some types of wood are smooth and polished, while others are rough and textured.

By taking a close look at the color, grain pattern, and texture of the furniture, you can often identify the type of wood it is made from.

Touch and Feel

In addition to visual inspection, you can also use your sense of touch to help identify the type of wood in furniture. Different types of wood have different densities and hardness. By feeling the furniture, you can get a sense of how dense and hard the wood is, which can help you narrow down the possible types of wood.

Here are some things to look for:

Density:

Dense woods, such as maple and oak, feel heavy and solid when you touch them. Less dense woods, such as pine and poplar, feel lighter and more airy.

Hardness:

Hard woods, such as walnut and cherry, feel difficult to scratch or dent. Soft woods, such as cedar and pine, feel easier to scratch or dent.

By feeling the furniture, you can get a sense of how dense and hard the wood is, which can help you narrow down the possible types of wood.

Sound

You can also use the sound of the furniture to help identify the type of wood it is made from. Different types of wood produce different sounds when they are tapped or struck. By listening to the sound of the furniture, you can get a sense of what type of wood it is made from.

Here are some things to look for:

Loudness:

Louder woods, such as maple and oak, produce a higher-pitched sound when they are tapped or struck. Softer woods, such as pine and poplar, produce a lower-pitched sound.

Timbre:

The timbre of the sound can also help you identify the type of wood. Dense woods, such as maple and oak, produce a clear, ringing sound. Less dense woods, such as pine and poplar, produce a duller, more muted sound.

By listening to the sound of the furniture, you can get a sense of what type of wood it is made from.

Chemical Testing

If you are still not sure what type of wood the furniture is made from, you can always do a chemical test. There are a number of different chemical tests that can be used to identify wood, but the most common test is the acid test.

The acid test involves applying a drop of hydrochloric acid to a small piece of the furniture. If the wood turns a reddish-brown color, it is likely made from a hardwood. If the wood does not change color, it is likely made from a softwood.

Chemical testing is the most accurate way to identify the type of wood in furniture, but it is also the most destructive. If you are not sure what type of wood the furniture is made from, it is best to consult with a professional.

Also Read This: How To Tell Type Of Wood Furniture

FAQs: How to Tell the Type of Wood in Furniture

What are the different types of wood used in furniture?

There are many different types of wood used in furniture, including:

Hardwoods, such as oak, maple, and walnut, are dense and strong. They are often used for furniture that will be subjected to a lot of wear and tear, such as tables and chairs.

Softwoods, such as pine and cedar, are lighter and less dense than hardwoods. They are often used for furniture that is more decorative, such as cabinets and chests.

Tropical woods, such as mahogany and teak, are often used for high-end furniture. They are prized for their beauty and durability.

How can I tell what type of wood my furniture is made of?

There are a few ways to tell what type of wood your furniture is made of.

Look at the grain: Hardwoods have a straight, even grain, while softwoods have a more irregular grain.

Feel the wood: Hardwoods are typically heavier and denser than softwoods.

Smell the wood: Some woods, such as cedar and mahogany, have a distinctive scent.

Check for identifying marks: Some furniture manufacturers will stamp or brand their furniture with the type of wood it is made of.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of different types of wood?

Hardwoods are generally stronger and more durable than softwoods. They are also more resistant to moisture and pests. However, hardwoods are also more expensive than softwoods.

Softwoods are lighter and less dense than hardwoods. They are also less expensive than hardwoods. However, softwoods are not as strong or durable as hardwoods.

Tropical woods are often considered to be the best quality woods. They are strong, durable, and beautiful. However, tropical woods are also more expensive than other types of wood.

How can I protect my furniture from damage?

There are a few things you can do to protect your furniture from damage:

Use coasters to protect your furniture from water rings and heat damage:

Wipe down your furniture with a damp cloth regularly to remove dust and dirt:

Use a furniture polish to protect your furniture from scratches and wear:

Store your furniture in a cool, dry place when not in use:

How can I repair damaged furniture?

If your furniture is damaged, there are a few things you can do to repair it:

Small scratches and dents can be repaired with a wood filler:

Larger scratches and dents can be repaired with a wood veneer:

Broken pieces of furniture can be repaired with wood glue:

Worn-out upholstery can be replaced with new fabric: