Expert: Kirk Ryan - 1/11/2009

Question
Hi,

We recently bought a lovely bedroom set from The Roomstore.  It felt like solid wood in the store, but now we are noticing it scratches easily and when dinged, it looks like a layer of the wood has flaked off.  I was told the furniture was made of hardwoods and veneers.  After doing some research, I see now that when the furniture it dinged for whatever reason (kids or what have you), it is the veneer coming off.  The furniture does not feel cheap, but I don't think I like this veneer thing!  Now I am afraid to even let my kids in our bedroom for fear they will easily damage the furniture.  Is veneer junk?  What is the best way to touch up the dings that show bare wood and flaking?  The color is a dark wood, sortof cherrywood color.  Thanks!

Answer
Veneer is becoming more and more common these days. Its a thin layer of real wood that is layered over a composition or MDF board. Solid wood prices are skyrocketing. Everything is going "green" and becoming more and more strict on environmental issues. So veneer is really practical when it comes to furniture. Sounds to me like you may have a veneered set with some solid edging maybe somewhere on it.

Veneer can be taken off and put back on quite easily by professionals. But the composition and MDF needs to remain solid. Solid wood of course is the easiest to repair, it can be easily sanded and fixed.

If the kids are ruining your furniture, then they should be kept out. Kids have the ability to ruin anything. Solid or veneer I have seen children destroy very valuable things. I remember some of the things I ruined on my parents. I destroyed a chandelier, a solid table, a chair, and a remember a wrestling match that ruined a glass coffee table and wrecked a wall. Wait until the kids are old and move out, then spend the money to get the good stuff. Trust me.  

To touch up the furniture ask your local hardware store if they have touch up markers and sprays for your specific wood coloring.

Best of luck!