Working with solid wood can be a challenge, especially for professionals who are not yet familiar with the types of wood available on the market. It is important to understand that each material has its own characteristics, for example. Furthermore, applications may vary according to these characteristics. In other words, this is essential knowledge for carpenters and furniture manufacturers. It is essential that carpenters, architects and designers know the types of wood for furniture, correctly specifying their projects.

Partnering with good suppliers goes beyond cost-benefit analysis and must guarantee environmental certification of products, the quality of the plates received and the care required for storage and maintenance.

There are several types of hardwoods that are sold for different purposes. This material is used according to the decoration styles. The variety is so great that it is often difficult to choose.

The point is that there are species that are appropriate for use in civil construction structures and there are others that are used in the decorative and functional parts of an environment. Therefore, the material can be seen in doors, windows, ceilings, panels, furniture, floors, shutters and even in decorative objects.

Hardwoods have specific characteristics that make them more resistant. To understand the subject and see the available types and their applications, continue reading Toth's article.

Characteristics of hardwoods

They became known as hardwood because of the colonization period, when they could only be extracted with authorization from the Portuguese Crown. They are materials with greater commercial value, as they come from native trees and grow slowly.

These woods are more rigid, heavier and have high resistance and durability. Commercial production is organized within current legislation.

Hardwoods have striking colors, which can be beige, yellow, red and brown. They have a smooth and glossy surface and, therefore, guarantee a refined finish. They can be found in different sizes and each species is suitable for a type of application.

Common wood is softer and less resistant. Therefore, it requires treatment to prevent attacks from fungi and insects. It has the lowest commercial value, but can also be used for many different purposes.

Main woods for furniture

Mahogany

Mahogany is a type of noble and sophisticated wood. Its color ranges from vibrant reddish brown to pink. It is a highly durable material that is easy to work with. In addition, it is resistant to fungi and termites. Mahogany, which is very common in southern Pará, is in high demand on the market.

However, as it is one of the species currently threatened with extinction, its extraction is subject to strict rules. These restrictions have meant that a large part of the materials sold under the “mahogany standard” brand are made up of other types of wood, finally covered with a generous layer of the noble species.

Itauba

Widely found in the tropics, especially in northern Brazil, itauba is highly resistant to attack by microorganisms. An important point is the drying of this wood, which must be natural. This is because artificial drying can pose a risk, as it causes cracks over time.

Cumaru

Cumaru wood is found in the north of the country and is a highly recommended type of wood for making furniture, especially in terms of its resistance. However, it can be difficult to work with due to its rigidity. Perhaps for this reason, its use is usually restricted to the manufacture of flooring.

American oak

Hardwood with moderate durability. Despite its rigidity, it is considered easy to work with, but difficult to dry. American oak is not very resistant to insects and, if not taken special care of, the wood may crack and deform in the medium term.

To extend the durability of furniture made from this material, care must be taken when moving it. It should also be kept away from heat sources such as hot pans.

Cedar

This wood has a reddish-brown hue and is quite versatile. Cedar is easy to saw, sand and screw, which makes the process of assembling the furniture it is intended for more practical. Common in South America, it is characterized by low permeability and quick drying. Its resistance to attack by insects and microorganisms is considered average.

When it comes to caring for the material, applying clear varnishes or sealants is a great way to protect the cedar from moisture and increase its lifespan. You can also treat the piece with cedar oil to enhance its luminosity.

Pine

Pine wood is part of the group of reforestation inputs. Its main characteristic is that it is soft and has a fine texture. In addition, it is resistant, durable and of high quality.

Pine

Pine is a durable material, but it is not immune to scratches. It is a wood with a higher cost when compared to other options on the market.

Processed or Reconstituted Wood

Wood for furniture obtained from the industrial manufacture of solid wood panels, from wood in sheets (plywood), particles (chipboard, MDP and OSB) or fibers (MDF, HDF and Hardboard), being bonded together by means of pressure, temperature and/or resins.

Main types of processed wood for furniture

Plywood

Variety of sizes, thicknesses, densities and manufacturing processes, and can be slatted (used in siding and doors), laminated (indoor areas), naval (high mechanical, water and flame resistance, ideal for outdoor areas). It is used to produce furniture of the most varied shapes.

Cluster

It is generally used on the back of furniture. It is not very malleable, has low density, low resistance to humidity, and is cheaper than other boards. “The particles in the agglomerate are uniform in size and distributed throughout the board. The same particles that are in the core of the board are also found on the surface, making it irregular and making finishing with paint and lamination difficult,” adds Ramos.

MDF (Medium Density Fiber Board)

It has a homogeneous appearance, diverse colors and the finish can be matte, glossy or woody. Widely used in machining processes, as it is malleable, suitable for the production of rounded parts and low-relief effects. It can be used in all types of furniture.

HDF (High Density Fiber Board)

High-density panel, dimensional stability, with a smooth and uniform surface. It has good cutting and machining capacity, being used in the bottom of furniture; bottom and sides of drawers; niches and honeycomb panels.

MDP (Medium Density Particleboard)

Similar to solid wood, it is used to produce furniture with straight lines and flat surfaces, which will be painted or coated. Suitable for the production of decorative panels, shelves, tables, chairs, cabinets.

Hard plate

High physical and chemical resistance, high density, providing good finishes. Can be stamped, machined, molded, curved, painted and sheared. Used for the production of cabinet and drawer bottoms, residential and office furniture and for the production of pallets.

OSB (Oriented Strand Board)

High mechanical resistance, widely used in construction. It can be used in lamps, tables, chairs, pallets, countertops, and sofas. It has a distinctive aesthetic, is resistant to humidity, and is affordable. It is an excellent option for those who want low-cost custom furniture!