A Quick Guide for Furniture Buyers

Whether you're shopping for a dining set, a coffee table, or flooring, knowing how to recognize different types of wood can help you make smarter, longer-lasting choices. Wood isn’t just wood — different species have unique looks, strengths, and price points. Here's a beginner-friendly guide to identifying some common types of wood by appearance and feel.

1. Oak – The Durable Classic

Oak is one of the most popular hardwoods in furniture. It has a prominent grain pattern that can look straight or wavy. There are two main types:

• Red oak has a slightly pink hue and open grain.

• White oak is a bit more golden or grayish, with a tighter grain.

Oak is heavy, strong, and resistant to wear — great for dining tables and flooring.

2. Maple – Smooth and Subtle

Maple has a fine, even grain and a pale, creamy color. It's harder than oak and tends to resist scratches well. Maple is often used in contemporary furniture for its clean look. Sometimes, it has a subtle, shimmering “curly” or “bird’s eye” pattern in higher grades.

3. Walnut – The Sophisticated Choice

Walnut is known for its rich, chocolate-brown color and straight grain. It may have some lighter streaks or variations, which add character. Walnut is often used in upscale furniture, cabinetry, and accents. It's not as hard as maple or oak but offers timeless elegance.

4. Pine – Light and Rustic

Pine is a softwood, so it dents more easily, but it’s widely used for its affordability and rustic charm. It’s light yellow or cream-colored with visible dark knots and swirls. Pine is popular in farmhouse-style furniture and pieces that aim for a more relaxed, country look.

5. Mahogany – Deep and Rich

Mahogany is a tropical hardwood prized for its deep reddish-brown color and smooth, straight grain. It’s commonly used in heirloom-quality furniture. Over time, mahogany darkens and develops a rich patina. Because of its cost and sourcing concerns, it’s often found in high-end or antique pieces.

Tips for Identifying Wood:

• Color: Is it pale like maple, dark like walnut, or reddish like mahogany?

• Grain pattern: Is it tight and straight (maple), bold and wavy (oak), or uneven with knots (pine)?

• Weight: Hardwood like oak and walnut will feel heavier than softwoods like pine.

• Finish: A stained piece might disguise the natural wood. Try checking an unfinished area (like under the table).