What are natural woods? What are its types and advantages?

Natural wood is a timeless material that has been used in building, furniture, and decor for centuries. It’s a versatile and eco-friendly option that offers numerous functional and aesthetic benefits. In this article, we will talk about natural wood, its types, unique characteristics, and the many advantages that make it a top choice for homeowners, designers, and builders alike.

 

What is natural wood?

Natural wood, also known as solid wood or lumber, is a raw material derived directly from trees without artificial treatments, modifications, or chemical processing. It is a complex organic material composed of various polymers and cellulose fibres, its physical and mechanical properties depend on several factors, such as species, growth conditions and wood structure. 

Due to its unique characteristics, natural wood is widely used in various industrial applications, such as construction, furniture making, flooring and interior design. Wood science and technology knowledge is essential in understanding the properties and behaviour of natural wood in different applications and environments.

 

What are the types of natural wood?

Natural wood can be classified into two categories based on their characteristics: hardwood and softwood.

Wood that comes from trees that lose their leaves, like oak and maple, is called hardwood. These trees’ trunks are larger and take more time to grow. Hardwood is commonly used in buildings and furniture because it is very strong and heavy. This type of wood can be found in floors, chairs, tables and other structures. Although it can be difficult to work with, homeowners like it because it is very durable and looks good.

Softwood is a type of wood that always comes from green trees. It’s lighter in weight and colour than another type of wood called hardwood. Although it’s cheaper and easier to work with, it’s not as strong or long-lasting as hardwood. That’s because softwood trees grow faster, which makes their wood less dense and sturdy. So, softwood needs more care and doesn’t last as long as hardwood.

 

What are the types of natural hardwood? 

Oak

Oak is a kind of strong wood that is often used for floors because it lasts a long time. There are two types of oak wood – red oak and white oak. Red oak has a warm red colour, while white oak is more neutral in colour.

Mahogany

Mahogany is a type of wood that is very strong and long-lasting. It has a beautiful reddish-brown colour and a straight pattern. Many people like to use mahogany wood for making furniture and cabinets because it is so durable. Additionally, it can make any room look more elegant and fancy.

Maple

Another popular choice for hardwood flooring, maple has a light, creamy colour with subtle grain patterns. It is known for its durability and resistance to scratches, making it a great option for high-traffic areas.

Teak

Teak, a type of hardwood that grows in tropical regions, is popular for its natural resistance to moisture and durability. As time passes, its colour deepens, giving it a rich golden-brown hue. Outdoor furniture and boat decks are common applications for teak due to its ability to withstand harsh weather conditions.

Walnut

Walnut is a hardwood with a unique grain pattern that adds aesthetic appeal to any interior space. It has a dark chocolate-brown colour that looks rich and luxurious. Due to its exquisite beauty, high-end interior designers and homeowners often prefer it for upscale projects. The wood’s rich colour and distinctive grain pattern make it a preferred choice for creating elegant, high-quality furniture, cabinets, and flooring.

 

What are the types of natural softwood? 

Pinewood

Pinewood, a well-known softwood in India, is widely used in the construction, furniture-making, and packaging industries due to its straight grain and light colour. It is also popular for making doors, windows, and flooring. Its low density and relatively low strength make it easy to work with, and it is readily available in the market at an affordable price. Additionally, the wood is easy to treat with preservatives, making it resistant to decay and insect damage. Overall, pine wood’s versatility and accessibility make it a highly sought-after material in various industries.

Cedar wood

Cedar wood is well-known for its natural ability to resist decay and insect infestation. It has a unique reddish-brown colour and a distinct aroma. Cedar wood is commonly used for making outdoor furniture, decking, and siding. It is also widely used in the construction of saunas and closets.

Spruce wood

Spruce wood is a popular type of softwood found in India. It has a pale yellow colour and a fine, even texture. This type of wood is commonly used in manufacturing musical instruments like guitars and violins, as well as for making furniture, doors, and window frames.

Fir wood

Fir wood, a popular choice for construction purposes in India, is characterised by a light brown colour and a straight grain. Due to its excellent strength-to-weight ratio and dimensional stability, it is commonly used for making structural beams, planks, and plywood. Moreover, high-quality Fir wood is used for manufacturing furniture and doors, owing to its attractive appearance and exceptional durability.

 

What are the advantages of natural wood? 

• Wood’s natural grain patterns and textures can enhance the visual appeal of any space, giving it a unique and timeless beauty.
• Wood is a renewable resource; if harvested responsibly, it can be a sustainable choice. Responsible forestry practices ensure the replenishment of trees, making wood an environmentally friendly option.
• Natural wood is known for its strength and durability, which makes it suitable for long-lasting structures and furniture.
• Wood has natural insulation properties that can help regulate temperature and reduce energy consumption, making it eco-friendly.
• Wood is easy to maintain as all you need is a soft cloth and a gentle cleaner to wipe away dirt and dust. Avoid using chemical cleaners or surface sprays to maintain the wood’s shine for years.

 

FAQs 

What is natural wood?

Natural wood is a material derived from trees and used for various purposes, including construction, furniture making, and paper production.

What are the advantages of using natural wood?

Natural wood is a sustainable and renewable resource that is biodegradable, recyclable, and has a low carbon footprint. It is also durable, strong, and has a unique aesthetic appeal that can add value to any project.

How can I tell if a piece of wood is natural?

Natural wood has distinct grain patterns and colours that can vary depending on the species of tree it comes from. It may also have knots, burls, and other natural imperfections that add character and uniqueness.

What are some common uses of natural wood?

Natural wood is used for a wide range of applications, including building materials, furniture, flooring, decking, cabinetry, and decorative accents like mouldings and trim. It is also used in the production of paper and other wood-based products.

What is the best way to care for natural wood furniture?

To care for natural wood furniture, keeping it away from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat sources is important. Regular cleaning and polishing can help maintain its appearance and durability.

What is the best type of natural wood for outdoor furniture?

Teak and cedar are popular choices for natural outdoor furniture due to their natural resistance to moisture and insect infestation.

Is natural wood environmentally friendly?

Natural wood is a renewable and biodegradable resource, making it an environmentally friendly material. However, it is important to ensure that the wood is sourced from sustainable forests to minimise its environmental impact.

Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com