Wood Types

Abundant and sustainable, alder is grown across the Pacific Northwest—with a range that spans from Southeast British Columbia all the way down to Northern California. Alder is an all-around adaptable hardwood. Because of its consistency, versatility and sustainability, it has grown to become a popular choice both in the U.S. and overseas for furniture manufacturing and cabinetry.

Parawood is known by many names such as rubberwood, plantation hardwood, para rubber tree, Malaysian oak, white teak, and Hevea. Parawood is by far one of the best renewable sources of wood, is fire resistant, and is comparable to Oak and Maple in its density.

Pine trees are considered a softwood tree, which means the wood is softer than hardwood varieties. Pine is still a shock-resistant wood suitable for furniture, particularly for rustic styles. Over time, pine gains a patina that gives it an antique-like quality. The dents and dings that are bound to show up in the wood add to its loved aged look.

Maple is considered to be among the favorite hardwood choices for furniture building. Maple is generally considered to be incredibly strong, durable, and beautiful when properly finished. Woodworkers and furniture aficionados gravitate towards maple for its light, creamy color, smooth grain pattern, and impressive durability.

Oak is the most abundant hardwood grown in the United States. Oak trees grow slowly. This longer growth period produces dense wood, which creates a strong, durable construction that holds up well. Oak has been used in crafting furniture for centuries, making it one of the older material options.

There are roughly 12 different woods in our custom Amish furnishings such as oak, cherry, hickory, hard maple, rustic cherry, and brown maple.