Expert: Greg Scholl - 12/9/2011

Question
In light of your excellent explanation of what a Superior Laminate Finish is I was wondering your thoughts on the quality and durability of Superior Laminate Finish vs. Wood.

My understanding of the current quality of wood is that wood is of lesser quality than wood of 25-30 years ago. Am I correct in this assumption?

Also, if the quality of Superior Laminate Finish approaches the quality of wood, from the ability of how well both products hold up, would I be over-spending buying furniture made from wood as opposed to furniture made using the Superior Laminate Finish?

Thanks,
Jack Pugatsky

Answer
Hey Jack...I'm not sure I'd characterize modern wood as inferior on all counts...but construction wood, Pines, etc. have suffered from over harvesting, and  haphazard storage and rapid kiln drying takes it's toll on materials...exotic woods are carefully regulated and protected now as well, so the availability and range of material is also affected. Buying wood furniture versus 'engineered' furniture is really a choice one makes based NOT solely on durability, obviously...there are pros and cons for each, but as a rule, solid wood furniture has a warmth, and character seldom approached by the typical 'office' furniture factory. Much of this stuff is quite expensive too, so price is also NOT a true measure of the value for the money. As you investigate the styles and offerings, you'll quickly see that certain styles lend themselves better to real 'furniture', and when you start to get into the styles of solid wood furniture and Antiques, even...there is a certain 'look' that can't be found in the typical 'office' furniture lines. However, you are right in assuming that these high tech laminates and other plastic based 'finishes' are extremely durable...but some wood finishes, like the catalyzed finishes on higher end kitchen and bath cabinetry, and also found on high end office furniture that uses real wood and wood veneers, are extremely tough and durable as well. So I don't think you'd be over spending, if you do your homework, and realize what it is you're buying...it's all relative to the quality and production difficulty in manufacturing these pieces...something made of MDF or particle board and covered in a plastic skin might be durable, but it is not made with the same care and effort as something from solid wood and then finished properly, which is more time consuming and requires higher labor costs...hope that helps a little - post back if need be- regards- Greg