The Difference Between Laminate, Veneer, and Solid Wood

When buying Amish furniture, choosing the right type of wood is a definite challenge, so what should you be doing? It is crucial that you know the difference between the types of wood that you will encounter at an Amish furniture store, but you should also know exactly what you shouldn’t be found. With that in mind, today we are going to take a look at the difference between laminates, veneers, and solid wood.

Veneer – One Thing you Should Never Find at an Amish Furniture Store

Veneer is not a solid wood – it is a thin layer of hardwood that normally measures 1/8 of an inch thick. In most cases, it is bonded or glued to a cheaper surface, or, in many cases, a particle board. In other words, it looks good, but once you get beneath the surface, it’s a far cheaper piece of furniture. This practice allows furniture to be built at a lower cost an will still retain the beauty of the solid wood furniture.

Objectively, particle board lasts longer in humidity, which often means that it is a better choice for bathroom vanities, but if you are here, then you are looking for the real deal. It is also important to remember that unlike Amish furniture for sale, veneers cannot be sanded as you will break through the top layer and end up at the particle board.

Laminate – A Synthetic Nightmare

We introduce you to another piece that you will not be found among online Amish furniture as you shop. Laminate is made from thinly sliced pieces of wood, or synthetic materials, and it is designed to completely imitate wood grain. It has a shiny finish and is often used in low-end furniture pieces that need more durable surfaces. How durable it really is, and how long it is going to last, will depend on how often it is used.

Solid Wood – The Gold Standard in Furniture

Authentic Amish furniture will always be made from solid wood, there are no exceptions. Unlike those we mentioned above, it can be more expensive but also more durable. In addition to that, it can be easily worked on, ensuring that it can stand the test of time and be a part of your home for many years rather than being replaced at the first sign of damage.

We will always recommend solid wood over any other type of wood on the market, and now you can see why. Make sure that you find the right piece of furniture for your home and most importantly, make sure that it is constructed from the right materials.