Solid wood

What is solid wood?

Solid wood refers to wood that is cut from a single piece of the tree trunk without being broken down into smaller pieces or combined with other materials. This natural form preserves the original structure and grain of the wood and makes it a favoured material in wood processing.

Solid wood | Photo © by Hugo Kämpf

Properties of solid wood

Solid wood is characterised by its exceptional strength and stability, as it is cut from a continuous piece of tree trunk. This structure ensures high resistance to mechanical stress, making solid wood ideal for durable furniture and load-bearing structures. The density of the wood affects weight and strength, with denser woods such as oak being particularly robust, while softer woods such as pine are lighter and well suited to furniture.

A remarkable feature of solid wood is its ability to regulate moisture. It can absorb and release moisture, which contributes to a pleasant indoor climate. However, this property can also lead to problems if the wood is exposed to extreme changes in humidity. Regular care is therefore important.

Aesthetically, solid wood offers a natural grain and colouring that varies depending on the type of wood and gives each piece a unique beauty. It also offers good thermal and sound insulation properties, helping to create a comfortable environment.

Solid wood is also a renewable resource, especially when it comes from sustainably managed forests. This sustainability makes it an environmentally friendly choice for construction and furniture projects. Finally, solid wood is easy to work with, making it versatile for different designs and applications.

Solid bar counter | Photo © by Hugo Kämpf

Applications of solid wood

In furniture manufacturing, solid wood is used for high-quality furniture that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional. Interior design projects benefit from solid wood in the manufacture of floors, wall panelling and staircases. Solid wood also plays an important role in the construction industry, particularly in the construction of timber frame houses and roof trusses.

What can all be solid wood?

Solid wood can be found in many different products and applications:

• Furniture: Tables, chairs, benches, wardrobes and beds made of solid wood offer stability and elegance.
• Flooring: Parquet and floorboards made of solid wood are durable and give rooms a natural touch.
• Interior fittings: Wall panelling and staircases made of solid wood create a warm ambience.
• Building elements: Solid wood is used in roof trusses and frame constructions, especially in timber frame houses.
• Decorative elements: Shelves and works of art made of solid wood are functional and aesthetically pleasing.
• Garden furniture: Benches and outdoor furniture made of solid wood are robust and weatherproof.
• Kitchen utensils: Solid wood chopping boards and kitchen utensils are durable and gentle on cookware.

Advantages of solid wood

• Durability: Products made of solid wood are characterised by their robustness and long service life. With the right care, they can last a lifetime.
• Sustainability: When used from sustainably managed forests, solid wood is environmentally friendly. It contributes to environmental protection and is a sustainable building material.
• Aesthetics: The natural grain and colour variations of solid wood make each piece unique and give it a special elegance.
• Increase in value: Furniture and structures made of solid wood often retain or increase in value, especially if they are well cared for.

Disadvantages of solid wood

• Cost: Compared to other wood materials such as veneer or chipboard, solid wood is generally more expensive. The costs vary depending on the type of wood and processing.
• Maintenance: Regular maintenance is required to preserve the beauty of solid wood. This includes cleaning, polishing and occasional re-oiling or re-waxing.
• Susceptibility to moisture: Solid wood reacts sensitively to changes in moisture and can crack or warp if not treated properly. Appropriate storage and care are crucial.

Care and maintenance of solid wood

To care for solid wood, you should dust regularly and occasionally use damp cleaning. Thorough drying is important after cleaning. Care oils or waxes help to protect the wood and preserve its natural beauty. The wood should also be protected from direct sunlight and extreme temperature fluctuations to prevent colour changes and cracking.

To summarise - simply explained

Solid wood is wood that is cut directly from a tree trunk and processed without additional materials. It is characterised by its high strength and unique beauty and is used in furniture, interior design and construction projects. Despite higher costs and maintenance requirements, solid wood remains a popular choice due to its durability and aesthetics. Proper care helps to maintain the quality and appearance of the wood product over time.