How To Tell What Type Of Wood Furniture Is [Answered]

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

There are a few ways to tell, and in this blog post, we’ll show you how. We’ll also discuss the different types of wood that are commonly used in furniture making, and what each type of wood has to offer.

So whether you’re looking to buy a new piece of furniture or you’re just curious about the one you already have, read on to learn more!

So How To Tell What Type Of Wood Furniture Is?

How to tell what type of wood furniture is

To tell what type of wood furniture is, you can:

Look at the grain pattern. Different types of wood have different grain patterns.
Check the weight. Different types of wood have different densities, so they will feel different in your hands.
Rub the wood with your fingers. Some woods are smoother than others, and some have a waxy feel.
Smell the wood. Some woods have a strong scent, while others are more subtle.
Look for identifying marks. Some manufacturers will stamp their name or logo on the wood.

How to Tell What Type of Wood Furniture is

Look for Grain Patterns

One of the easiest ways to tell what type of wood furniture is made of is to look at the grain pattern. Different types of wood have different grain patterns, so this can be a helpful way to identify a particular wood.

Some common grain patterns include:

Straight grain:

This is the most common grain pattern, and it is characterized by straight, parallel lines. Straight grain is found in woods such as oak, maple, and ash.

Curly grain:

This grain pattern is characterized by wavy or curly lines. Curly grain is found in woods such as walnut, cherry, and mahogany.

Bird’s-eye grain:

This grain pattern is characterized by small, round dots. Bird’s-eye grain is found in woods such as maple, sycamore, and elm.

Fiddleback grain:

This grain pattern is characterized by a wavy, ribbon-like pattern. Fiddleback grain is found in woods such as koa, lacewood, and zebrawood.

Check the Color

The color of wood can also be a helpful way to identify it. Different types of wood have different colors, so this can be a quick and easy way to narrow down your options.

Some common wood colors include:

Light:

This includes colors such as white, cream, and light yellow. Light-colored woods include maple, birch, and ash.

Medium:

This includes colors such as brown, tan, and gray. Medium-colored woods include oak, walnut, and mahogany.

Dark:

This includes colors such as black, dark brown, and dark red. Dark-colored woods include cherry, ebony, and rosewood.

Check the Texture

The texture of wood can also be a helpful way to identify it. Different types of wood have different textures, so this can be a way to distinguish between two woods that have similar grain patterns or colors.

Some common wood textures include:

Smooth:

This is the most common texture, and it is characterized by a smooth, even surface. Smooth-textured woods include maple, birch, and ash.

Rough:

This texture is characterized by a rough, uneven surface. Rough-textured woods include oak, walnut, and mahogany.

Pebbled:

This texture is characterized by small, round bumps. Pebbled-textured woods include sycamore, elm, and hickory.

Wavy:

This texture is characterized by a wavy, uneven surface. Wavy-textured woods include koa, lacewood, and zebrawood.

Check the Weight

The weight of wood can also be a helpful way to identify it. Different types of wood have different densities, so this can be a way to distinguish between two woods that have similar grain patterns, colors, and textures.

Some common wood weights include:

Light:

This includes woods that weigh less than 30 pounds per cubic foot. Light-weight woods include maple, birch, and ash.

Medium:

This includes woods that weigh between 30 and 50 pounds per cubic foot. Medium-weight woods include oak, walnut, and mahogany.

Heavy:

This includes woods that weigh more than 50 pounds per cubic foot. Heavy-weight woods include cherry, ebony, and rosewood.

Conclusion

By looking at the grain pattern, color, texture, and weight of wood, you can often identify the type of wood it is. This can be helpful if you are trying to find out more about a piece of furniture or if you are looking for a particular type of wood for a project.

FAQs: How to Tell What Type of Wood Furniture is

What are the different types of wood furniture?

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

Hardwood furniture: Hardwood furniture is made from the dense, heavy wood of trees such as oak, maple, and mahogany. Hardwood furniture is typically very durable and long-lasting.

Softwood furniture: Softwood furniture is made from the lighter, softer wood of trees such as pine, fir, and cedar. Softwood furniture is typically less expensive than hardwood furniture, but it is also less durable.

Laminated furniture: Laminated furniture is made from multiple layers of wood that are glued together. Laminated furniture is often less expensive than solid wood furniture, but it is also less durable.

Man-made furniture: Man-made furniture is made from materials such as plastic, metal, and glass. Man-made furniture is often less expensive than wood furniture, but it is also less durable.

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

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

Look at the grain pattern: The grain pattern of wood is unique to each species of tree. By looking at the grain pattern, you can often identify the type of wood your furniture is made from.

Feel the weight of the furniture: Hardwood furniture is typically heavier than softwood furniture. You can also feel the grain of the wood. Hardwood furniture has a more pronounced grain than softwood furniture.

Check for any identifying marks: Some manufacturers will mark their furniture with a label or stamp that identifies the type of wood it is made from.

What are the pros and cons of different types of wood furniture?

Each type of wood furniture has its own unique advantages and disadvantages.

Hardwood furniture: Hardwood furniture is very durable and long-lasting. It is also relatively resistant to scratches and dents. However, hardwood furniture can be more expensive than other types of wood furniture.

Softwood furniture: Softwood furniture is less expensive than hardwood furniture. It is also lighter and easier to move around. However, softwood furniture is not as durable as hardwood furniture and is more susceptible to scratches and dents.

Laminated furniture: Laminated furniture is often less expensive than solid wood furniture. It is also more durable than softwood furniture. However, laminated furniture is not as durable as hardwood furniture.

Man-made furniture: Man-made furniture is often the least expensive type of furniture. It is also very durable and long-lasting. However, man-made furniture is not as aesthetically pleasing as wood furniture.

How can I care for my wood furniture?

The best way to care for your wood furniture is to:

Keep it clean: Dust your furniture regularly with a soft cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners on your furniture, as these can damage the finish.

Protect it from moisture: Wood furniture can be damaged by moisture, so it is important to keep it away from water and other liquids.

Don’t over-expose it to sunlight: Sunlight can fade the finish on wood furniture, so it is important to keep it out of direct sunlight.

Refinish it as needed: If your furniture starts to look dull or worn, you can refinish it to restore its original appearance.

What are some common problems with wood furniture?

Some of the most common problems with wood furniture include:

Scratches and dents: Wood furniture can be easily scratched and dented, especially if it is not properly cared for.

Water damage: Wood furniture can be damaged by water, so it is important to keep it away from water and other liquids.

Moisture damage: Wood furniture can also be damaged by moisture, so it is important to keep it in a dry environment.

Sun damage: Wood furniture can be damaged by sunlight, so it is important to keep it out of direct sunlight.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your wood furniture looking its best for years to come.

Also Read: What Type Of Fire Extinguisher For Wood Paper And Fabric