Solid wood tables are timeless pieces that bring warmth, character, and durability to any home. Whether you're considering your first solid wood table or adding to your collection, we've compiled answers to the most frequently asked questions to help you make an informed decision.
1. How Do I Know If a Table Is Real Solid Wood?
Genuine solid wood tables are made from natural wood throughout, not just a thin veneer over particleboard. Look for visible wood grain patterns that continue around edges and corners, check the weight (solid wood is heavier), and examine the underside where you should see the same wood grain. At reputable furniture stores, the product description will clearly state "solid wood" rather than "wood finish" or "wood-look." Learn more about how to choose the perfect wood slab table.
2. What's the Difference Between Solid Wood and Engineered Wood?
Solid wood is cut directly from timber and consists of natural wood throughout. Engineered wood (like plywood or MDF) is manufactured from wood fibers, particles, or veneers bonded together with adhesives. While engineered wood can be more affordable and resistant to warping, solid wood offers superior durability, can be refinished multiple times, and develops a beautiful patina over time.
3. Which Wood Type Is Best for Dining Tables?
The best wood depends on your needs and aesthetic preferences. Suar wood is Southeast Asia's favourite, known for its stunning grain patterns and rich, warm tones. Black Walnut offers deep, luxurious dark tones and excellent stability, making it a modern classic. Sapele wood features a beautiful ribbon-stripe grain pattern with reddish-brown hues and exceptional durability. Beli wood provides beautiful character with unique grain variations. Each wood type has distinctive characteristics in terms of hardness, grain pattern, and color that make it special.
Suar wood showcases stunning natural grain patterns
Black Walnut offers rich, luxurious dark tones
Sapele wood features distinctive ribbon-stripe grain patterns
Beli wood displays unique character and grain variations
4. Will My Solid Wood Table Crack or Warp?
Wood is a natural material that expands and contracts with humidity changes. Quality solid wood tables are designed with this in mind, using proper joinery techniques and allowing for wood movement. To minimize risks, avoid placing tables near heat sources or in direct sunlight, and use coasters and placemats to protect the surface from moisture.
5. How Do I Care for and Maintain a Solid Wood Table?
Regular maintenance is simple: dust with a soft, dry cloth regularly, clean spills immediately with a slightly damp cloth, and avoid harsh chemical cleaners. Depending on the finish, you may need to oil or wax your table every 6-12 months using a proper maintenance set. Use trivets for hot dishes (see our Instagram guide on hot food and wood tables), coasters for drinks, and placemats to prevent scratches. For detailed guidance, check out our article on how to care for your solid wood slab table. With proper care, your solid wood table can last for generations.
6. Can Scratches and Dents Be Repaired?
Yes! This is one of the major advantages of solid wood. Minor scratches can often be buffed out or concealed with wood markers. Deeper scratches may require light sanding and refinishing of the affected area. For significant damage, professional refinishing can restore your table to like-new condition.
7. What Finish Should I Choose?
Common finishes include oil , lacquer , polyurethane and wax. At The Table Guy, we choose oil finish, which is popular for giving a natural appearance and ease of touch-ups.
Oil finishes enhance the natural beauty of wood by penetrating deep into the grain rather than sitting on the surface, which brings out rich color depth and highlights the unique grain patterns of woods like Suar, Black Walnut, Sapele, and Beli. This creates a warm, natural appearance that many customers prefer for premium solid wood furniture.
The finish is easy to maintain and repair since you can simply reapply oil to worn areas without needing to strip the entire surface, making it ideal for heirloom-quality pieces. Oil finishes are also more forgiving of minor scratches and wear, developing a beautiful patina over time that adds character.
From a tactile perspective, oil finishes provide a smooth, natural feel rather than the plastic-like surface of polyurethane, which appeals to customers who value the authentic wood experience. The finish is also breathable, allowing the wood to expand and contract naturally with humidity changes, which can help prevent cracking in solid wood pieces.
Oil finishes work well in humid climates like Singapore when properly maintained, though they do require periodic reapplication (typically annually) compared to more permanent finishes.
8. Are Solid Wood Tables Eco-Friendly?
Solid wood tables can be an environmentally responsible choice when sourced sustainably. Learn more about whether solid wood is sustainable. Solid wood is biodegradable, renewable, and has a lower carbon footprint than many synthetic materials. Plus, their longevity means less furniture waste over time.
9. How Much Should I Expect to Pay?
Prices vary widely based on wood type, size, craftsmanship, and design. Generally, expect to invest more upfront for solid wood compared to veneer or engineered alternatives. However, consider it a long-term investment—a quality solid wood table can last 20-50+ years or even become a family heirloom, making the cost per year of use quite reasonable.
10. Will the Color of My Table Change Over Time?
Yes, and this is part of solid wood's charm! Most woods develop a patina as they age. Suar wood deepens in color and develops richer tones over time. Black Walnut may lighten slightly while maintaining its luxurious appearance. Sapele develops a deeper, more lustrous reddish-brown color with age. Beli wood also evolves beautifully with age. This natural aging process is influenced by light exposure and is considered desirable by many, adding character and uniqueness to your piece.
Making Your Decision
Investing in a solid wood table means choosing quality, sustainability, and timeless style. Understanding these key aspects will help you select the perfect table for your home and care for it properly for years to come. Whether you prefer the rich character of Suar, the luxurious depth of Black Walnut, the elegant ribbon grain of Sapele, or the unique beauty of Beli, a solid wood table is more than furniture—it's where memories are made.
Have more questions about solid wood tables? Visit our showroom or contact us—we're here to help you find the perfect piece for your home.