Until the turn of the last century, most bureaus, chests, dressers, and beds (called case goods) were made from planks of wood. The "cost" of wood furniture went up with exotic or scare woods. Carvings, turnings, veneering and inlays added expense. Craftsmen used a veneer that was 1/8 to 1/4 inch and could withstand deep scratches and dents. Today's veneers are rotary cut (visualize a tree log acting like a roll of toilet paper) and about twice the thickness of your finger nail. Nice to look at, but not thick enough to withstand decades of use.

During the last century, companies spent millions of dollars developing composites and substitutes for the aesthetics and durability of solid wood. Plywood was first, followed by high density fiber board and chip board. These products provided a stable surface for the application of veneers and vinyl wall papers (imprinted with a wood color and grain). Manufacturers use endless combinations of wood species and composites to produce furniture that will fit any budget.

Our forests pay a heavy price for composite furniture , because of its limited life span. Furthermore, each generation has less and less quality furniture to be recycled by the next generation.

Now, less than 20% of all the ease goods sold in America are made from solid wood. Some composite furniture is very, very expensive but it will only be found in stores catering to the highest incomes. For the rest of us, composite case goods are marketed as "made from solid woods and veneers". For added sizzle the ad may add "in beautiful walnut finish". If you want wood furniture do not shop there.

Since 1947 Kincaid Furniture has been building solid wood case furniture (except the drawer sides and bottoms are plywood). They are the largest largest manufacturer of wood furniture in America. Please visit our store and learn more before you spend your hard earned dollars.

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