A quality dining table can last you for years. Indeed, it can be an heirloom that you pass down. For that reason, experts usually caution you against choosing trendy tables. Wood is a classic material that never goes out of style. You have many choices in wood, though. You might find it difficult to choose which wood is right for your table.
Below are some of the common wood types and how they might work for you.
Maple
Maple is a very hard wood, so it's exceptionally durable. The color of the wood ranges from creamy white to golden brown. The grains in the wood are very fine with light curves in the patterning. Overall, the graining is minimal so that the surface is light and bright. Maple works well for young families because it goes with anything, and it's tough enough for small children.
Hickory
Hickory is even denser than maple, which makes it one of the most durable woods used for dining room tables. The coloration features both red and cream colors. The grain pattern is medium — it's more noticeable than maple. The tabletops of hickory tables are often striking because of the distinct graining, which makes them work well in rustic interiors.
Red Oak
Red oak is slightly less hard than maple, but it's still very strong. The color of the wood is orange-red, which is where it gets its name, with some white and light brown. The graining is pronounced and open, which helps hide dents in the wood. Red oak offers a traditional appearance. It also imbues rooms with a warm ambiance.
White Oak
White oak offers the same density as red oak. It's much lighter with cool white and sage-green undertones. Woodworkers often cut against the grain so the surface presents with dramatic variances of light and dark. This patterning can also help hide wear and tear. White oak looks good in rustic or Craftsman décor.
Walnut
Walnut is a bit softer even than oak. The wood features a distinct warm brown coloration with hints of gold and gray. The graining is very distinctive, featuring wide and narrow streaks. While the bold graining can help hide dents, walnut is more suitable as a statement piece in a modern home.
Cherry
Cherry is the softest of the woods on this list. Like walnut, the wood features a characteristic color, in this case, rich red and reddish-brown. Woodworkers typically stain the tabletop to bring out the red. Graining is very smooth and subtle. A cherry dining table is another good pick for a statement piece, perhaps in a traditional setting.
Choose a dining room table made of wood you'll love for years. Contact local dining table stores to learn more.
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