When it comes to home decor, wood is the preferred choice for crafting furniture, doors, cabinets, and other trimmings due to its warm and aesthetic appeal.
Like the fingers in your hand, different types of woods have distinct features, and knowing which kind of timber is best suited as per the budget and requirement will help you make the right choice.
In general, wood is classified into hardwood, softwood, and human-made wood.
Hardwood Vs. Softwood Vs. Man-made wood
Ced from flowering trees, such as oak, teak, walnut, and cherry. It is much denser and more porous as compared to softwood, and also long-lasting.
Softwood, on the other hand, is sourced from coniferous trees. Yellow pine, one of the most commonly used softwoods, has gained prominence in India in recent times.
As coniferous trees proliferate, the ecological impact of using pine wood is less. Besides, owing to its light shade, it can be easily tinted to take on various shades and forged into artsy, colonial pieces.
Many furniture stores are also using pine wood for contemporary furniture, as it is lightweight and easy to move around. You can purchase pinewood for about 500 rupees per cubic feet in India.
Wood Types Available In India
Now, moving to the classic varieties of wood accessible in India - Teak deserves the first mention, as it is the most expensive, and most commonly used wood for indoor and outdoor furniture, construction, doors, and cladding.
Teak is mainly imported from Myanmar. It is resistant to rot, rain, sun, corrosion, white ants, and termites - making it highly-priced but long-lasting and durable. If you are looking for exquisite furniture that will last you a lifetime, teak could be your best choice, but it may burn a hole in your pocket.
The price of teak varies according to age and quality. A seven to eight-year-old tree usually yields around 10-12 cubic feet of wood that can cost you up to 1.5 lakh rupees.
There are many other hardwoods used for furniture making in various parts of India. These include the famous Indian rosewood or sissoo, which is available for over 3,000 rupees per cubic feet. This beautiful wood darkens with age and has long been used for crafting unique, heritage pieces.
Are you building or renovating your decor with high-performing, beautiful furniture? Choosing the right type of wood requires you to consider your budget, the climate that you stay in, and the decor you have in mind.
In Conclusion
Each type of wood possesses unique characteristics that can greatly impact the appearance, durability, and overall quality of the final product. Hardwoods such as oak, mahogany, and walnut offer exceptional strength and longevity, making them ideal for furniture that will withstand heavy use.
Softwoods like pine and cedar, on the other hand, provide a more affordable option without compromising on aesthetics. Additionally, engineered woods like plywood and MDF offer versatility and stability, especially for intricate designs or budget-conscious projects.
When choosing the best wood for your furniture, it's crucial to consider factors such as your budget, desired aesthetics, durability requirements, and environmental considerations. Some woods may be more sustainable and eco-friendly, while others might require special care or maintenance.