In Singapore, there is a variety of wood types that are commonly used in furniture making. These include rubberwood, acacia, teak, oak, MDF etc, each made to fit a certain style and aesthetic. However, while each kind of wood has its unique set of pros and cons, in this article, we will delve into why teakwood is the superior choice. Whether you’re on the hunt for the perfect wooden piece to complete your living space, or looking to do a room makeover, you will find that teakwood furniture in Singapore is just what you need.
Teakwood
Teakwood is considered superior in furniture making in Singapore as it has a natural resistance to weathering and insects. Teakwood contains oil that repels insects such as termites and makes it resistant to decay and fungal attacks. This makes it an excellent choice for outdoor and indoor furniture, especially in Singapore’s tropical climate, where high humidity and frequent rainfall can pose challenges to other types of wood. Additionally, because of the natural oil present in teakwood, teakwood furniture does not easily warp, crack, or split when exposed to moisture. Aesthetically pleasing, teakwood has a warm, golden-brown colour and a tight, straight-grain pattern. Its natural oils give it a beautiful sheen, and many people appreciate the way teak ages gracefully, developing a silver-grey patina as time passes. Furthermore, teakwood furniture requires minimal maintenance, only requiring regular cleaning and occasional application of teak oil to preserve its original colour.
Rubberwood
Rubberwood, also known as parawood or Hevea wood, comes from the rubber tree. Rubberwood is often more affordable than some other hardwoods, making it a cost-effective choice for furniture manufacturing. Rubberwood is considered an environmentally friendly option because it is harvested from rubber tree plantations. These plantations are established for latex production, and the rubberwood comes from trees that have reached the end of their latex-producing life cycle. Harvesting the wood from these trees provides an additional economic benefit and promotes sustainable forestry practices. The grain pattern of rubberwood is generally straight and uniform, providing a clean and contemporary look. However, rubberwood is susceptible to insects and fungal attacks. Rubberwood is perishable and has a strong tendency to decay. Thus, harsh chemical treatment to ensure proper sealing and finishing is always done on the woods. Moreover, Rubberwood is a medium-density hardwood, making it relatively easy to work with. It is not as dense as some hardwoods like oak or teak, which can affect its durability.
Acacia wood
Acacia wood comes from the Acacia tree, which is native to Australia but is also found in other regions, including Asia and Africa. Acacia wood has a rich, warm colour with variations ranging from light to dark brown. It often features a distinctive grain pattern, adding to its aesthetic appeal. Acacia wood is durable and hard, making it resistant to wear and tear. However, its durability can vary depending on the specific species of acacia. Some acacia species are more durable than others, and the quality of the wood can also be influenced by factors such as growing conditions and the specific environment in which the tree is cultivated. Some well-known and commonly used species, such as Acacia mangium or Acacia melanoxylon, are generally considered durable.
Acacia wood contains natural oils that provide some resistance to decay and insects, but it may not be as naturally resistant as teak. When considering the durability of acacia wood, it’s helpful to keep in mind that there are numerous species within the acacia genus. Acacia wood that is less dense, has a lower concentration of natural oils or is prone to insect infestation may be less durable than other varieties.
MDF
MDF stands for Medium Density Fiberboard. It is an engineered wood product made from wood fibres, wax, and resin that are compressed and heated to create a dense, flat panel. MDF is made from wood fibres obtained from hardwood and softwood residuals. These wood fibres are combined with wax and a resin binder, such as urea-formaldehyde or phenol formaldehyde. MDF is often more affordable than solid wood, making it a cost-effective choice for budget-conscious projects. However, MDF is susceptible to water damage and can swell or break down if exposed to excessive moisture. Therefore, it is not recommended for use in high-moisture environments or outdoor applications without proper sealing. Additionally, some people may be concerned about the formaldehyde content in MDF, although efforts are made to produce low-emission or formaldehyde-free MDF for certain applications.
Oakwood
Oakwood refers to wood that comes from oak trees, which are deciduous hardwood trees belonging to the genus Quercus. There are two types of oakwood, namely red oak and white oak. Both are prevalent in furniture making due to their durability, strength, and resistance to decay. However, oakwood originates mostly from the northern hemisphere which has a temperate climate. As compared to tropical climates where the humidity level is constantly high, oak can absorb moisture from the air, potentially leading to swelling, warping, or cracking of the wood. While oak is generally resistant to insects and decay, certain tropical climates may harbour specific types of insects that could pose a threat to the wood. Termites, in particular, are known to thrive in warm and humid environments and can cause damage to wooden structures. Oak may require more maintenance in tropical climates to mitigate the effects of high humidity. Regular cleaning and protective coatings can help prevent issues such as mould growth and wood damage. This increased maintenance may be a consideration for those looking for low-maintenance options. Oak may be more expensive in tropical regions due to the costs associated with importing it.
Thus, we can infer that teakwood is a superior wood for furniture making especially in tropical countries such as Singapore. Its durability, strength, resistance to decay, and aesthetic make teakwood a top choice for outdoor and indoor purposes. However, many are deterred from choosing teakwood because of its prohibitive cost. However, at Timberry, we offer quality, teakwood pieces sourced from sustainable plantations at affordable costs thereby, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of teakwood without exceeding your budget requirements.
Why TeakWood Reigns Supreme
Teakwood is a versatile and durable material that offers numerous advantages for craftsmen and furniture lovers in Singapore. Its strength, durability, and evergreen appearance make it suitable for various styles and designs, including western, eastern, classic-rustic, modern, round, and square shapes. Teakwood is classy and elegant and can maintain its beauty over time. It can be used for indoor and outdoor furniture, and its high-quality oil concentrate ensures its longevity.
Teakwood is popular among wood artists and carpenters due to its hardness and texture, making it a lifetime investment. It can be used in various types of furniture, including tables, side tables, chairs, cupboards, TV consoles, benches, sofas, dining tables, carvings, flooring, walling, accessories, and accents.
While teakwood furniture in Singapore may be expensive compared to other materials, it offers numerous advantages. It can be used in various spaces, such as living rooms, bedrooms, terraces, patios, and gardens. Teakwood is resistant to damage, moulds, moisture, termites, and other insects, providing durability, beauty, and functionality. Don’t miss the opportunity to invest in teak furniture in Singapore and elevate your home with elegance and a strong touch.
Source The Best Teakwood Furniture at the Best Prices at Timberry!
While teakwood is highly regarded, teakwood furniture in Singapore does usually fetch higher costs. Because of this, some people may prefer other types of wood for specific styles or budget considerations. That is until our team at Timberry has developed a line of teakwood furniture pieces at affordable prices without sacrificing the quality whatsoever. Because we understand the importance of finding pieces that achieve both style and functionality, we’ve paved the way to provide top-of-the-line teakwood furniture pieces that are comparable to other rubberwood, acacia, and MDF. Get in touch with us today to find the right Teakwood furniture that will tie your home together perfectly!