Oak is the National Tree of the United Kingdom. Well known for its strength, the oak tree has a long life span. Some of the oak trees in UK are believed to have survived for 2000 years. Widely used for furniture and highly admired by people, oak is strong and durable. Historical records indicate that massive four poster beds made of oak were very popular even during the period of Queen Elizabeth I. Many of the centuries old oak furniture are dark brown in colour even though it is a light coloured wood. The colour transformation is the result of constant polishing for maintenance.
Oak is generally used for the manufacturing of heavy pieces, as this hard wood is very sturdy even with minimum maintenance. Being a hard wood, it is difficult to carve out intricate designs on oak furniture. People prefer oak furniture without painting as its natural pale colour is very pleasing. Oak furniture is therefore given oil or lacquer finish to retain its classic look. Beds, chest of drawers, chairs of various types etc. made out of wood are sought after by connoisseurs of wooden furniture. As already mentioned, oak furniture require very little maintenance. Regular dusting and cleaning will help to retain its gloss and elegance. Accumulation of dust and dirt on the wood will cause irreparable damage to the furniture. Occasional polishing will enhance its durability. Care should be taken to protect the oak furniture from scratches as well as from heat and moisture.
While buying oak furniture, make sure that you are dealing with a reliable source. Remember that the UK Government has a clear-cut policy regarding the use of wood, especially when it is procured from forests. All reputed furniture dealers respect and follow this environment friendly policy and take care to procure oak trees from sustainable sources. As a locally grown tree, oak is comparatively cheaper than imported woods like mahogany.
Apart from the new furniture, there are refurbished oak furniture available in the market. As the most durable hard wood available in the country, oak can be retrieved from used furniture. Many of such pieces, refurbished from classic or antique oak furniture are often considered as precious possessions by those who know the real value of the woods.
Online furniture stores is a good option to choose oak furniture, whether it is new pieces or refurbished ones. It is better to peruse the catalogues available on the websites of the furniture dealers. There are auction sites also, where the customers can procure cheaper products. What ever be the mode of shopping, verify and confirm the return policy, warranty and transit damage insurance while buying. As far as possible choose well known brands, to ensure the quality of wood and workmanship. Beware of spurious products marketed by some unscrupulous people to dupe the customers. As far as the prices are concerned, the customers can make use of the price comparison sites while shopping online.
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