The bottom line is that nothing beats old growth wood. There are good reasons that products made with wood from old forests are valued. Increasingly, more people are seeking out this kind of wood for their furniture and building projects. Since older forests are largely protected, this wood is recycled from other sources, such as barns that are hundreds of years old or even items like old pickle barrels.
Unmatched Durability
One of the simplest reasons to select furniture and other products made out of old growth wood is that it is really tough. New growth wood has no chance of standing the test of time like old growth wood. Since it is taken from trees that are often hundreds of years old, this wood is very tough. Originating from dense forests, old trees offer the benefit of more rings per inch. It is harder and stronger. It also can stand up to issues like wood rot and insects. Not only is the wood itself harder, but also it has the added benefit of having been exposed to the air for an extended period of time.
In terms of durability, new wood has zero chance of matching up. It is no accident that an entire industry has grown up around reclaiming old growth wood from old barns, factories, schools and other structures. Old growth wood is impressive wood in more ways than one.
Today savvy homeowners are flocking to use reclaimed old-growth lumber in their homes and for their furniture. They are making this choice in part because of the durability of old growth wood.
Furniture that is Made to Last
There are other substantial benefits to selecting furniture made with old growth wood. A large percentage of modern furniture simply isn’t made to last. While it is true that real wood furniture may costs more than cheaper alternatives, it is also true that that manufactured board, or MDF furniture, is a poor imitation of real wood furniture.
MDF furniture, which is so popular with the “big box” retailers, fails to provide long term durability. Further, it is often made using harmful chemicals that degas into the environment over time.
Poor quality furniture must be replaced more frequently. In the long run, this factor makes it a poor investment and one that should be avoided at all costs. Most of the furniture on the market today is made from poor quality materials that literally fall apart, but furniture made from old growth wood is tough stuff. The financially prudent move is to opt for old growth wood furniture, which is sure to stand the test of time.
Old growth wood is denser and as a result it is more stable. This stability results in wood that is more resistant to swelling as well as shrinking.
Lower Your Carbon Footprint
A benefit that many often overlook with old growth wood is that it is eco-friendly by nature. Using old-growth wood in furniture means a lower carbon footprint, as the energy involved in growing, cutting and transporting new wood has been bypassed. If you are looking for a very eco-friendly furniture option, you’ll want to consider furniture that is not created from newly cut and harvested trees. Truly, using reclaimed wood and old growth wood is one of the ultimate forms of recycling.
A Gorgeous Appearance
As though all of these benefits are not enough, there is also the issue of beauty. Many people find that the look and feel of old growth wood is simply superior to what new wood can offer. The imperfections found in old growth wood infuse it with a charm and life that is impossible to duplicate or match. When you choose to use old growth wood in your home, whether it is flooring, furniture or another use, you will find that old growth wood’s beauty is unmatched and unrivaled.
Old growth wood furniture is, simply stated, charming. In addition to its tremendous durability, old growth wood furniture will stand the test of time. The beauty of older wood translates to furniture in a very soulful and impressive way. Many feel that there is a sort of magic quality that resides in old growth wood furniture. The imperfections, knots and character of the wood helps furniture makers bring the wood to life in the form of furniture. The end result is a functional work of art that is full of both character and life.
If you are looking for furniture that is a cut above most other offerings, then you’ll love old growth wood furniture. The cookie cutter look and feel of most modern furniture is completely absent. Old growth wood furniture has a rich and attention grabbing look that other furniture just can replicate.
When you select old growth wood products, it is important to invest the time to learn more about the wood and how it was treated and sourced. A great furniture manufacturer will not just use old growth wood, but will also be able to tell you what products were used on the wood, why, how the wood was sourced and from where.
Ultimately, old growth wood products such as old growth wood furniture are a worthwhile and savvy investment. Old growth wood products last and last, and that means that your grandchildren will enjoy it in their homes too one day. Unlike other wood products on the market today, you will use your old growth wood products not for just years, but instead for many decades.
Old growth wood furniture can be passed down to future generations and will still retain their charm and appeal. When it comes to selecting the best furniture and wood products on the market opting for old growth wood is a very smart move. The beauty, durability and character to be found in old growth wood products is unrivaled.