Manufacturers of oak panels know what it takes to expose the natural beauty of the deep grain of this wood in order to make furniture that is as beautiful as it is strong. And because of the composition of oak, this wood is strong, durable and resistant to fungus and insect infestation. Tannin is responsible for giving oak these sturdy characteristics. You may be familiar with the term tannin if you're a wine or Scotch enthusiast. It's because these beverages are carefully aged in oak barrels that the tannin taste is imparted. Depending on the type of oak, American or French, the alcohol will acquire different attributes.
That same tannin that is responsible for making a tasty beverage is also the wood's characteristic that makes it so strong. Coupled with the natural beauty of the wood, it's no wonder oak panels are a popular choice for furniture makers. The strength of the wood makes it resistant to dings and scratches due to normal wear and tear, like banging into it with the vacuum cleaner, or an army of children role playing war games complete with heavy arsenal, setting up fort under their beds. You won't get that same resistance to accidental bumps with a softer wood like pine, which is more porous and susceptible to nicks and bumps.
A manufacturer of oak panels will know how to elicit the natural beauty of the wood grain through the type of cut used. The quarter-sawn method is the most popular choice to highlight the intricate grain details. Put simply, the cut is made at a 90 degree angle to the age rings of the tree trunk. Not only do you get more beautiful oak panels with this cutting method, but you also get a stronger panel. Using the quarter-sawn method adds strength to the board, gives it a more uniform shape and size and makes it less vulnerable to shrinking and warping.
Now that the superlative qualities of oak have been revealed to display how quality oak panels are made, you can also consider that oak comes in a variety of thicknesses to suit your furniture needs. Historically, oak has been used indoors for both furniture and interior panelling to create an aura of prestige, wealth and strength. Oak retains this characteristic today and is a superior choice for constructing furniture.
Author Resource:
SMI Hardwoods is the UK's leading supplier of European Oak Panels . For quality Oak Panels contact SMI now.
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