Strong and durable furniture is a wise investment. When your furniture is in top condition, you can enjoy its function for many years. The strength and durability of furniture is affected by the material it is made of, how it is made and how it is used. Here’s how these factors can influence strong and durable furniture.
Photo credit: Antique lit Old Board Road
Material
The material that is put into your furniture has a lot to do with its strength and durability. Hardwoods are those that come from deciduous trees such as oak, cherry, birch, maple and mahogany. They are sturdy and last a long time even with impact and wear and tear. With proper care, furniture made from softwoods such as pine, cedar, and redwood can last for years. Softwood furniture may be prone to dents and scratches with wear and tear, but it’s still possible to find good quality pieces and keep them in top condition.
Furniture made of steel and other metals is also designed to last. When combined with a material such as wood, it will add stability and resistance to wear and tear and weather.
Skill
Strong and durable furniture is furniture that is well made. With antique furniture, the pieces are made by hand. Unlike the nails and screws we use today, antique furniture used mortise and tenon or dowels. Mortise and tenon is when one piece of stock is threaded into another and tied in place. This is a simple method but promises superior strength. Fitting is formed when two or more mortise are joined together. The pas is admired for its aesthetics and is a common component of well-made furniture for its strength. How the furniture is put together says a lot about its quality. In turn, the quality also tells you about its strength and how long it will last.
Sanding, staining and finishing are also important for durable furniture. Furniture sanding provides a smooth finish that removes scratches and tiny gaps where moisture can accumulate. Staining and finishing protect the material from outside elements that can cause damage to furniture such as moisture and dirt.
Use and Care
The frequency of use and the way furniture is handled affects how long it will last. Furniture purchased for daily use is resistant to weight, possible scratches, temperature and other external factors. As a rule of thumb, furniture that is used frequently is more susceptible to wear and tear.
Furniture that is used more often, such as chairs and beds, requires maximum maintenance. Furniture that is less impactful but has removable or movable parts such as drawers and clocks requires regular inspection and maintenance.
Regular cleaning and dusting goes a long way in ensuring your furniture stays strong and long lasting. With wooden furniture, it makes sense to avoid contact with hot or cold objects. Checking your furniture for cracks and other repair needs will help you ensure that your furniture remains strong and can be enjoyed for many years.
Being able to tell if a piece of furniture is strong and durable will help you choose quality furniture. Consider these factors the next time you shop for furniture to enjoy a great buy.
