Veneer vs. Solid Wood Furniture: What Homeowners Should Know

Homeowners usually have two choices when they’re looking for new furniture: veneer or solid wood. While both options have their benefits, it can be difficult to determine which is best for you and your home. Continue reading to discover the differences between veneer and solid wood furniture and what homeowners should know before purchasing.

What Is Veneer?

Veneer pieces consist of thin layers of wood glued together to create a real wood look, without using solid wood. The outer layer is wood, and the underlying layers come from inexpensive materials such as particleboard. As a result, veneer furniture can be less expensive, depending on the retailer. Veneer furniture also comes in many styles, finishes, and colors.

What Is Solid Wood?

Solid wood furniture consists entirely of real wood and is often more expensive than veneer furniture. However, it is also higher quality and more durable. Solid wood furniture can last for generations when properly cared for. Solid wood furniture also comes in various styles, finishes, and textures.

Durability

Solid wood furniture has a huge advantage over veneer furniture when it comes to durability. Solid wood furniture is less prone to damage, such as scratches, dents, or heat damage. Since it consists entirely of wood, it is more resistant to wear and tear. A huge benefit to solid wood is, if there is a deep scratch or accidental chip in your furniture, it can be completely strip sanded and refinished to be as good as new. Veneer furniture, on the other hand, is more susceptible to damage, and irreparable if scratches, nicks, and dings get through the thin top layer.

Maintenance

Both veneer and solid wood furniture require regular cleaning with a mild soap and water to keep them looking their best. Solid wood requires less maintenance since the screws used to assemble drawer slides, door hinges, and hardware stay stronger and more solid when embedded into solid wood versus veneer with its particle board core.

Cost

The cost of furniture is a big consideration for many homeowners. Veneer furniture is sometimes more affordable than solid wood furniture because of its inexpensive material makeup. However, solid wood furniture is a better investment in the long run because it is more durable and long-lasting. You should consider investing in veneer furniture if you want to save money. Otherwise, solid wood furniture is the better choice if you want furniture that will last for years to come.

Homeowners should know that the differences between veneer and solid wood furniture come down to their preferences on design, functionality, and budget. Solid wood is a high quality, preferred, natural material to use for furniture, but it cannot be conformed to accommodate all designs and functions. Veneer furniture is a good option if you want lower cost furniture that looks great. But solid wood furniture is the way to go if you want furniture built to last. Ensure you take care of your furniture so it will last for years, whichever you choose.

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