A solid wood top is something you use every day and keep for years, so it is worth getting the details right when you order. These are the choices that affect how it looks, how it wears and how long it lasts.
Choose the wood for the job
Oak, walnut, ash and teak are hard, durable and good for tables in daily use. Softer woods such as pine cost less but dent and scratch more easily.
Measure the room, not just the table
Allow about 60 cm of width per person, and leave around 90 cm between the table edge and the wall so chairs can be pulled out comfortably.
Pick a sensible thickness
Around 3 to 4 cm suits most dining tables and desks. Thicker tops look impressive but are heavy, cost more and need a stronger base.
Decide on the edge
A straight edge is clean and modern, a rounded edge is kinder to elbows and children, and a live edge keeps the natural shape of the tree.
Oil or lacquer
Oil soaks into the wood, gives a natural look and is easy to touch up, but needs reapplying from time to time. Lacquer forms a harder protective coat and needs less care, but is harder to repair locally.
Allow the wood to move
Solid wood expands and shrinks with humidity. A top should be fixed to its base with fittings that let it move, otherwise it can crack or warp.
Look after it
Use coasters and mats, wipe spills straight away, keep it out of strong direct sun and away from the direct blast of the AC.
