Wood veneer sheets, thin sheets of wood that is obtained from peeling the log of a tree, are a widely used surfacing material in both residential and commercial properties. A veneer sheet is glued onto the surface of wooden furniture to enhance its aesthetic appeal, durability, and sturdiness. One of the main reasons an increasing number of interior designers and architects are turning to veneer surfacing is that, unlike solid hardwood, it does not expand or contract with changes in temperature. Broadly classifying, there are two types of veneer sheets; natural and engineered. Continuing on the subject, we draw a comparison between the two choices to help you determine which one is right for you. Read on.
Natural Wood Veneer Sheets
As the name suggests, natural wood veneers are made from tree trunks by a process called ‘slicing’. That’s the reason why natural wood veneers are one of their kind. Every tree is unique, with factors such as the soil, geographic location and other conditions influencing the bark’s design and rings. The manufacturing processes do not alter the intrinsic patterns in the wood, so each veneer sheet comes out as a unique work of nature’s art.
Compared to engineered veneer sheets, natural wood veneers demand superior production technology. Overall, natural veneer sheets are considered more premium and valuable.
Engineered Wood Veneer Sheets
Also called recomposed, reconstituted, manufactured or man-made veneers, engineered veneer sheets are manufactured by reprocessing and remanufacturing wooden sheets to achieve the required design and aesthetic appeal. When it comes to production, engineered wooden sheets greatly differ from natural veneers. Engineered veneers are obtained by slicing thin sheets from fast-growing and renewable species of trees. These slices are then dyed in vats, dried, and glued together into blocks of various shapes. These blocks are then re-sliced and re-glued based on the design preferences for the final product. Once all of this is done, you obtain an engineered veneer sheet which emulates natural wood patterns.
Despite a seemingly sophisticated manufacturing process, engineered veneer sheets are less expensive to produce. Factors like waste management and use of less expensive and rapid growing trees significantly brings down the cost of production.
The Verdict
Both engineered and natural veneer sheets have a wide range of design options and are near equal in terms of aesthetic appeal. For the best of natural wood veneers, you can always count on a premium brand such as Decowood. Our veneer sheets not carry unmatched elegance, they are also highly resistant to termites and water damage. To discuss your requirement, fill out our contact form or simply call +91 11 4279 1399.