If you’re looking for some new timber furniture for your home, then you will be wondering what timber is the best choice, and what options are available. Timber furniture is a classic, timeless style, and if you pick the right pieces, they can end up being family heirlooms that are treasured for years to come. There are endless choices, but this article covers all the main types of timber used for furniture, and explains what the benefits of each one are. Read on to find out what timber will be the best price, style and strength for your new furniture.
Oak
Oak is incredibly sought after, and is used to make high-quality timber furniture. There are both red and white types of oak, but white is usually preferred because it’s more resistant to moisture – which makes it ideal for outdoor furniture. Oak also has distinctive patterns created by the open grain texture. It’s a solid, heavy wood, so it can support a large amount of weight, but this also makes it one of the more expensive timber choices. Because of its strength and durability, it’s perfect for cabinets and tables – just imagine an impressive statement dining table, or a safe and sturdy cabinet for your expensive glasses. In Australia you would probably go with Tasmanian oak, it’s known for its staining qualities and resilience.
Ash
Ash is widely available because it grows quickly and is usually grown as a plantation timber. It’s also resistant to decay and isn’t affected by insects. This timber is appreciated for its sturdiness, aesthetically pleasing grain, and visible gum veins. In Australia we have the Victorian ash, which comes from the same eucalypt species as the Tasmanian oak – so it’s often used for the same applications. It’s easy to work with, and ideal for furniture, as the colour of the wood varies from pale pink to light browns.
Jarrah
This timber is well-known for its beauty and strength, and is highly sought after in Australia. Jarrah is grown in the South West of WA, where the soil is rich with aluminium and iron. It’s more expensive due to its slow growth, and only a small amount is allowed to be harvested annually to ensure the longevity of the forests. Jarrah is renowned for its colour, as it ranges from deep red-brown to smooth pink, and offers attractive interwoven patterns. It’s also easy to paint, polish or stain, which means it’s a versatile choice that can suit any home. Any furniture made from jarrah is sure to be full of character and uniqueness, and it will be a long lasting piece as the wood is durable and reliable.
Pine
You probably know that pine is regularly used throughout the world for making furniture, but the main types we have in Australia are Cypress, Hoop and Radiata pine. Pine is a more affordable option than some other timbers, and this is mostly because it has low resistance to decay and insects, and it isn’t very strong. However, its soft properties do make it ideal for crafting into interesting shapes, and making interesting pieces of furniture with curves and bends. Pine is known for its signature knots, curved grains, and light brown colours, and it’s easy to paint and stain.
Marri
Marri is grown amongst the jarrah and karri forests of the South West. It’s often called redgum, and is known for its distinctive honey-brown tones and deep, dark gum veins. This timber is prized by timber furniture manufacturers because it’s strong and durable, but it’s also not very common, so you will have a unique furniture piece that stands out. Marri is a versatile choice for your furniture, because it’s a light coloured wood and will fit in with most interior designs. The dark veins are highlighted against the light wood and make it a beautiful, eye-catching timber that is perfect for a statement dinner table.
Choose an Expert Timber Furniture Manufacturer
Once you have decided on a type of timber for your new furniture, then it’s time to find a reliable timber furniture supplier or manufacturer. The sort of timber you choose is only half of what determines how high-quality your piece of furniture will be. The expertise of the timber furniture craftsperson will determine whether you receive a beautiful, durable and finely crafted item. Choose your company wisely, and ensure they are experienced and trustworthy.