How to distinguish solid wood furniture?
Solid wood furniture is often seen as a symbol of quality and durability. However, not all solid wood products are created equal. There are two main types: log furniture and pure solid wood furniture. Log furniture is made from whole pieces of wood, featuring natural knots and visible annual rings on the corners. This type of furniture is typically more expensive due to its authenticity and craftsmanship.
On the other hand, pure solid wood furniture may consist of multiple wooden boards glued together and covered with veneer. While still considered solid wood, it doesn’t use a single piece of wood throughout. This can sometimes lead to confusion among consumers, especially when the product doesn’t look or feel as "solid" as expected.
Recently, Mr. Wang, a customer, found himself upset after knocking over his two-year-old solid wood sofa. Upon inspection, he noticed that the furniture was actually made up of several small pieces of wood glued together and covered with a thin layer of wood veneer. He questioned whether this qualified as real solid wood furniture and felt deceived. His experience sparked a broader conversation about how to identify genuine solid wood products.
To better understand the differences, a reporter visited several home furnishing stores in the city. The variety of solid wood furniture available was impressive, but so were the price differences. Some items could cost tens of thousands of yuan, while others were much cheaper—yet both were labeled as "solid wood." What really sets them apart?
Natural Wood Grain Indicates Authenticity
At Red Star Meikailong Long Shuangnan store, a brand manager explained that solid wood furniture is generally divided into two categories: log furniture and pure solid wood furniture. Log furniture, for example, shows the natural grain and annual rings on the corners. If you look closely at a drawer or cabinet corner, you might see the circular patterns of the tree's growth rings. This is a clear sign of true log furniture.
In contrast, if the furniture is made of veneer-covered panels, those natural features won't be visible. According to the manager, authentic log furniture requires high-quality materials and skilled craftsmanship, which makes it more expensive. A simple eucalyptus bedside table can cost around 5,000 yuan, which is comparable to the price of an ordinary solid wood bed.
Bonded Panels vs. Finger-Jointed Boards
Not all solid wood furniture is made from real wood. Some products use bonded wood-based panels or particleboards, which are then covered with a thin layer of veneer. These are often referred to as "wood furniture," but they are not the same as true solid wood. They tend to be less environmentally friendly and may not last as long.
Consumers should be cautious when purchasing. It’s important to ask about the materials used and understand the difference between finger-jointed boards (which are made from small pieces of wood joined together) and bonded panels. Choosing well-known brands and checking for certifications can help ensure you're getting a quality product.
Ultimately, understanding the differences between various types of solid wood furniture is key to making an informed purchase. Whether you prefer log furniture or more affordable options, being aware of what you’re buying can save you from disappointment and unnecessary expenses.
By Ning Qianhong, Trainee Reporter, Huaxi Dushi Bao
Kunshan Liyue Hardware Products Co.,Ltd , https://www.fixlyhardware.com