What's the difference between Real Solid Wood and Laminated Wood (sometimes called solid wood)
Posted by Ingrid Fehr on
We noticed recently some raised dog bowls, or as we call them elevated pet feeders coming on the market that look similar to ours. Of course they don't have our non-toxic finish... and we realized they were laminated tops advertised as solid wood.
When we say solid wood, this is what we mean...
And, this applies to every product we make!
What is Solid Wood?
In our terminology, solid wood is just that. A piece of wood that can be sanded, stained and clear coated.
*Solid wood can get a dent or a ding from use, but over time, it remains solid and strong.
*Solid wood can be repaired, refinished or restored if you have dents, dings or scratches from age or misuse.
*Solid wood is durable.
*Solid wood is sustainable & eco-friendly.
*Solid wood has character such as knots, worm holes, sap pockets & even as the tree is cut, the wood varies from piece to piece.
*No two pieces are identical.
*A major benefit is the sustainability factor of buying real solid wood furniture.
*Solid wood can be sourced from replenishing North American forests and manufactured in a way that is much more natural. Another reason to buy made in the USA products!
*There is no worry about it crushing from a move or disintegrating from a little standing water.
*Solid wood is more economical over time.
*Solid wood is not a throw away item.
*Solid wood is heavier= stable and solid
*Well-built, solid wood furniture is incredibly durable and designed to last for generations.
*It can withstand the wear and tear that comes from daily use.
*Solid wood requires minimal maintenance.
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What is Veneer?
Veneer is a thin layer of wood or synthetic material, usually thinner than 1/8”. The veneer is bonded, or glued with adhesive, to a cheaper surface that is hidden below. A less expensive wood or particle board can often be found underneath.
Often sold under the term “SOLID WOOD”
This term is allowed when the thin veneer surface is laminated to another cheaper wood underneath.
We believe that’s a misconception!
*Due to the fact that it is manufactured instead of harvested, veneers can be designed to give the appearance of a wider variety of wood finishes and provide a more uniform finish or grain.
*What is underneath the veneer?
Many manufactures use a combination of MDF, particleboard and other materials as the core of their furniture. These materials are mixed with chemicals and glues to be formed and provide strength. While this core makes them lighter and easier to manage, it also makes them more susceptible to damage that often cannot be repaired.
*You are usually unsure of what is under the veneer.
*May contain MDF, particle board or other products with significant chemicals and glues.
*If it has a particle board core it can suffer from moisture absorption.
*Can be damaged if moved by loosening joints.
*Defects over time- Edges peel back, Blistering,and de-lamination.
*Difficult to repair
*Tends to be disposable