Choosing the right wood finish is a key decision to make when shopping for hardware furniture of any kind, including Amish furniture. From creating the perfect style for your home to ensuring your new furniture lasts a lifetime, selecting a finish that works best for you will make all the difference. To help you with this task, here are some things to keep in mind.
The Type of Wood
First, decide what type of wood you’re buying. Several types of Amish furniture are available, including oak, cherry, hickory, and pine. Each has unique characteristics that should be considered when choosing the finishing option. For example, cherry tends to be a bit more expensive and requires a more detailed finish than other woods, whereas oak is a good compromise between cost and quality. Oak isn’t as expensive as cherry but not as common, so it may take a bit longer to find the right finish for it. Hickory is the most affordable option and can be finished in various ways, but it’s not as durable as some other woods.
The Wood Finish’s Durability
When you’re looking to buy Amish furniture, it’s important to consider the durability of the wood finish. Many think the only difference between different wood finishes is their look and feel, but this isn’t always the case. Some wood finishes are more durable than others, and you must decide which is best for your furniture and the expected use it’ll see. Varnish is considered the most durable wood finish, making it a great option for homes with children or pets.
Final Product Appearance
Consider how you’d like the result to appear. While the wood itself plays a large part in Amish furniture’s appearance, the choice of finish can dramatically change the way a wood species looks. You may want a finished product that is neat and organized, or you may prefer a more rustic appearance. You also may want to consider what colors you would like to use for your furniture. The right finish is key to creating the look and feel you’re going for in your home’s design!
Ease Of Use
This is an essential factor that should be considered when purchasing Amish furniture. The wood finish should be easy to clean and maintain, so you won’t have to worry about messes or marks. Oil finishes are the easiest to clean and maintain, but they are not quite as durable as other finish options. In contrast, polyurethane finishes are a good compromise between ease of use and durability. They resist moisture better than oil finishes but can still be cleaned easily with soap and water. Varnish is the most durable wood finish available but is also the most difficult to clean. This is because it requires either sanding or stripping before cleaning can take place. Varnish also has a low resistance to water and oils, so it may start to soften over time if left untreated.
Duration The Wood Finish Takes To Dry
If you’re ordering a custom-built furniture piece, it also helps to consider the length of time the finish will take to dry. The most common wood finishes take about two days to dry completely. However, depending on the type of finish and the climate in which the furniture is made, this time may be shortened or lengthened. For example, a clear lacquer finish will dry much faster than a traditional oil or stain finish. This will influence the time it takes for custom-ordered Amish furniture to be ready for pickup.
Key Takeaway
In conclusion, selecting the right wood finish for your Amish furniture is an important decision. It will determine the look and feel of your piece, as well as its longevity. With so many options available, you can choose a finish that best suits your style and needs. To get started on finding the perfect Amish furniture piece for you, visit one of our locations at Amish Oak in Texas today!
