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IS ENGINEERED WOOD THE RIGHT SOLUTION FOR YOU?
What is Engineered wood?
If you’ve ever gone furniture shopping, then you’ve probably heard of ‘engineered wood’. The term simply refers to a man-made furniture product engineered to look like wood. Though it is often referred to as mass timber or composite wood, it is manufactured by binding strands of wood, with adhesives, to form a composite material. Although it cannot match up to the rustic aesthetic of solid wood, this engineered wood furniture definitely has its merits.
Also different combinations of raw materials produce variations of engineered wood. Therefore in this blog, we’ve compiled a list of the top five common types used in interiors & furniture and discussed the pros and cons.
Engineered Wood #1: Plywood
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Plywood is the original and most popular type of engineered wood. It is made by gluing thin sheets of cross-laminated veneer with durable, moisture-resistant adhesives. Hence commercial grade plywood is highly versatile. Therefore hardwood or exterior plywood can be used in outdoor structures such as patio furniture while indoor plywood is more suited for tabletops, desks, wardrobes and dressers. Also entertainment units and bookshelves are typically made using plywood.
#2: Particle Board
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If you’re looking for an eco-friendly alternative then particle boards are the way to go. They are created by heat pressing sawdust and resin together with chemicals such as dyes, wetting agents, and release agents. These boards are lighter than plywood and hence perfect for shelving and false ceilings.Also flat-pack furniture such as IKEA products and other ready-made furniture often use a type of particle board called Oriented Strand Board (OSB).
Keep in mind that particle boards are not suitable for outdoor furniture as they are prone to water damage. As a precaution, use a water-resistant sealer to make the furniture much more durable.
#3: MDF Board
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Medium-density fibreboard (MDF) is the latest trend in modern furniture. These boards are sturdy and highly durable. Add MDF-based kitchen cabinets beneath the stone countertops in your kitchen and enjoy them for decades to come. This type of wood is also immune to warping and cracking.
Despite being denser than regular plywood, MDF can soak up water quickly. So, make sure it is sufficiently waterproof before you install it in your kitchen or bathroom. Get in touch with the best home interior designers in Chennai to make custom MDF cabinets for your space.
#4: Birch Ply
The Birch Plywood is another good option for those who want an eco-friendly product. This calibrated ply is native to northern Europe and Russia.The wood is strong and durable because it is formed by three or more layers of birch.
This material a popular choice for most home renovation projects since it has nice, rich sheen and elegant finish. The birch ply is perfect for making cabinets, desks, and shelves.
#5: BWP Plywood
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The Boiled Waterproof Plywood, a.k.a BWP are manufactured with durable face and core veneers. Hence they perform splendidly in both humid and wet conditions. Since it is specially treated, it can resist rotting in a high moisture environment. Opt for BWP plywood for kitchen or bathroom flooring as the wood here is most likely to be exposed to moisture for long periods of time.
The best part about these man-made products is that they are more versatile than solid wood. There are also other options such as sun mica, veneer boards, laminated timber, etc. Though natural wood is aesthetically pleasing and long-lasting, engineered wood pieces are easier to work with using simple tools, and can be easily designed to meet specific requirements.
So, the next time you are trying to make a tough choice between a more affordable composite product and a heavy piece of wooden furniture, consider the ease of installation, and make the right choice! You can always reach out to interior decorators in Chennai for any furniture-related inquires.