Wooden furniture - Questions and information

• Which types of wood are best suited for living room furniture?

For furniture in the living area, hardwoods such as oak, beech, and walnut are suitable as they are particularly stable and durable. Ash impresses with an elegant grain, while walnut looks sophisticated with its dark tone. Softwoods such as spruce and Swiss pine are appealing due to their warm appearance, are easier to work with, and create a cozy atmosphere. Swiss pine, in particular, has a pleasant scent and can positively influence the indoor climate.

• Are solid wood furniture pieces more stable than veneered furniture?

Yes, solid wood furniture is generally more stable and durable than veneered furniture. It consists entirely of real wood, is robust, and can be sanded down or repaired multiple times. Veneered furniture, on the other hand, has only a thin layer of real wood on a support board (e.g., particle board or MDF) and is often cheaper and lighter. While veneered furniture is less prone to shifting and remains more dimensionally stable, solid wood furniture lasts for decades with proper care.

• How does wood change over time? Can it darken?

Yes, wood changes naturally over time, often gaining more character. Many wood species, such as oak, pine, or Swiss pine, gently darken and develop an even warmer radiance. Fluctuations in temperature and humidity can cause wood to slightly shift, which gives it its unique liveliness. With good care, regular air humidification, and protection from direct sunlight, it remains beautiful and stable for decades.

• What surface treatments are available for wooden furniture, and what are their advantages?

Wooden furniture can be treated in various ways. An oil treatment emphasizes the natural grain and remains breathable, though it requires regular re-oiling. Varnish provides a resilient protective layer and is easy to maintain, but can hide the wood structure. Wood stains can change the color of the wood while keeping the grain visible. A brushed or lye-treated surface highlights the texture and lends a rustic charm.

• Is wooden furniture suitable for households with children or pets?

Yes, wooden furniture can certainly be suitable for households with children and pets if you keep a few things in mind. Solid wood is robust and can withstand a lot, while a good surface treatment like varnish or oil protects against scratches and stains. Furniture made from harder woods like oak is more resistant to wear. For families with small children or pets, it may be useful to choose oiled surfaces, as they are easier to repair.

• How can I repair scratches or small damages on wooden furniture myself?

Scratches or small damages on wooden furniture can often be repaired yourself quite easily. First, you can use wood repair pens or wax sticks to hide minor scratches. For deeper scratches, wood filler that you apply to the affected area and then sand smooth is helpful. If the surface is damaged, you can use fine sandpaper to carefully sand down the area, and then re-oil or re-varnish the furniture to restore the protection. For dents, a damp cloth and an iron can help to gently raise the dents back up.

• Which wood is particularly easy to maintain and resistant to stains?

Oak is considered particularly easy to maintain and resistant to stains. It is robust and resilient, so it handles daily wear and tear well. Maple is also a good choice as it offers a smooth surface that is less prone to stains. Beech is also relatively resistant to stains and quite easy to maintain if cared for regularly. In general, regular surface treatments (such as oil or varnish) help protect wood against stains additionally.

• Is wooden furniture also suitable for allergy sufferers?

Yes, wooden furniture is generally well-suited for allergy sufferers, as wood is a natural material that does not contain synthetic chemicals that could trigger allergies. Solid wood furniture is particularly advantageous as it does not have the harmful emissions that can occur with some artificial materials. It is important, however, that the furniture is not finished with harmful varnishes or chemical treatments. Those who are sensitive should ensure the wood is treated with natural surface treatments such as oil.

• Are there differences in the environmental footprint between solid wood and veneered furniture?

Solid wood furniture generally has a better environmental footprint because it is longer-lasting and repairable, which extends its lifespan and reduces the need for replacement furniture. Since they are made entirely of real wood, they require fewer artificial materials such as support boards or chemical adhesives, which are used in veneered furniture. In addition, they are often fully recyclable and leave a smaller ecological footprint over their lifespan.

• Why does Swiss pine smell so intense, and does the scent fade over time?

The intense scent of Swiss pine comes from essential oils contained in the wood, especially pinene and Swiss pine oil. These substances emit a pleasant, calming fragrance. Over time, the scent may fade slightly because the essential oils evaporate due to humidity and temperature loss. If the scent fades, a light surface treatment can refresh the aroma.

• What is the difference between solid wood and real wood?

Solid wood is wood that consists entirely of one piece, whereas "real wood" is a general term for genuine wood that can also include veneered wood (a thin layer on a carrier material). Solid wood furniture is therefore crafted from a continuous block or board, which makes it particularly robust and durable.

• What harmful substances can be found in furniture?

Furniture can contain harmful substances such as formaldehyde (found in particle board and MDF), flame retardants, and solvents in varnishes and adhesives, which can be detrimental to health. Plasticizers in plastics can also cause hormonal disruptions. To reduce these risks, it is recommended to choose furniture made of solid wood or with environmentally friendly and certified surface treatments.

• How healthy is wood for the biological rhythm?

Wood generally contributes to a healthy indoor climate by regulating humidity and improving air quality. The calming properties of wood can therefore have a positive influence on the well-being and the natural rhythm of the body.