Furniture Glossary Terms

What Is the Difference Between Wood Veneer and Solid Wood Furniture?

Solid wood furniture is built from timber all the way through, making it durable and refinishable but heavier and pricier. Veneer furniture uses a thin layer of real wood bonded over a core such as MDF or chipboard, giving the look of solid wood at a lower cost and with less warping, though it is more vulnerable to damage if the surface layer is chipped or sanded through.

What Does Foam Density Mean for Sofa Cushions?

Foam density, usually measured in kg per cubic metre, describes how tightly packed a cushion's foam is rather than how firm it feels. Higher-density foam generally holds its shape and support for longer under regular use, while lower-density foam can feel soft initially but flatten and lose resilience more quickly over time.

What is Engineered Wood?

Engineered wood refers to materials created by bonding together wood strands, veneers, or fibres with adhesives. In home & garden applications – such as furniture – it’s typically used for items like TV units and bedroom wardrobes. It's important to understand that 'engineered wood' doesn’t automatically mean ‘cheap’. The quality varies greatly depending on the type of wood used (like MDF or particleboard) and the adhesive applied. Generally, it offers a more stable surface than solid timber and can be produced in larger sizes, making it cost-effective for mass production. Consider its intended use; heavier items benefit from denser engineered wood types.

What is Solid Wood?

When a product is described as ‘Solid Wood’, it generally refers to furniture constructed primarily from timber where the grain runs continuously through the entire piece, without significant internal voids or composite materials. This means the wood has been cut from a single log or closely related logs. For UK shoppers, this typically indicates greater durability and longevity compared to products made with engineered wood. Solid wood is heavier than alternatives and can be more expensive, but offers a natural aesthetic and generally requires careful maintenance like occasional oiling to preserve its appearance and protect it from moisture.

What is Rattan?

Rattan, when used to describe garden furniture and similar items, refers to the material from which the product is made – specifically, the stems of certain climbing palms, most commonly *Corymbia gedistana* (also known as New Zealand Rattan) or *Diplophyllum edulis* (Java Rattan). This material is labour-intensively processed into a woven construction. It’s important to note that ‘rattan’ used in this way isn't the same as solid rattan furniture; it describes the weaving technique. Due to its natural origin, it's generally lighter than metal or treated wood, and requires more careful maintenance – regular cleaning and protection from the elements are crucial for longevity. It is a relatively cost-effective material choice compared to some other premium outdoor options.

What is Velvet?

Velvet, when used to describe a home and garden product like a sofa or cushion, refers to a textile characterised by its dense pile of short cut fibres. This creates a luxurious, soft feel against the touch and a rich, deep colour appearance. Practically, velvet is known for being relatively durable due to the tightly woven base fabric but can be susceptible to snags and marks if not handled carefully. It tends to be heavier than other fabrics like cotton or linen, and generally represents a higher cost point. Consider its maintenance needs - it often requires specialist cleaning – and factor this into your decision.

What is Mesh?

In the context of home & garden products, ‘Mesh’ refers to a fabric construction where individual strands are woven together to create open spaces. It's typically used for materials like storage baskets, laundry hampers, and shelving components. This means the material is breathable – allowing air circulation – which can be beneficial for drying clothes or preventing moisture build-up in storage areas. Mesh products tend to be lightweight and relatively inexpensive compared to solid fabrics. However, they may not offer as much structural support or protection against damage as denser materials, so consider this when choosing a product’s longevity.