Oak at Eichholtz: Solid, Veneer and Finishes

Q: Why does an oak table develop fine cracks?

Because wood reacts to the ambient air. Dry heating air causes it to shrink. Between approximately 40 and 60 percent relative humidity, the movement remains inconspicuous.

Q: How do you care for oiled oak?

With a dry or slightly damp cloth, and one to two times a year, apply care oil in the direction of the grain. All-purpose cleaners and standing water should be avoided.

Oak at Eichholtz: Solid, Veneer and Finishes

Oak is the wood that endures the longest in furniture and presents the most diverse appearances. The same species can appear light and serene, deep brown and rustic, or almost grey, depending on how it has been treated. The difference lies in the finish, not in the tree itself.

Solid or Veneer

Both are of high quality when executed correctly. Solid wood is oak throughout, can be sanded down and refinished, but is more prone to movement. Veneer is a thin layer of real wood applied to a stable substrate. It is more dimensionally stable, which is a significant advantage for large surfaces, and allows for book-matched veneers, creating mirrored grain patterns that would be impossible to achieve with solid wood. A large dining table in veneer is not a compromise but often the technically superior solution. The edge is crucial: it reveals the quality of craftsmanship.

The Finishes

Oiled. The oil penetrates the wood, leaving the surface open and tactile. It can be repaired, but is more susceptible to water rings.
Lacquered. A sealed layer, more resistant to liquids, but requires complete refinishing if damaged.
Smoked. Ammonia reacts with the tannins in the oak, darkening it throughout, not just on the surface. The tone is deep and warm.
Limed or Brushed. The soft earlywood layer is brushed out and the pores are filled with a light pigment. This creates the typical grey, textured appearance.

Wood Works, and That's Not a Flaw

Oak absorbs and releases moisture. In dry heating air, it shrinks; in summer, it swells. This can manifest as fine gaps, slightly warped panels, and sometimes a drying crack on the end grain. The ideal range is approximately 40 to 60 percent relative humidity and 18 to 22 degrees Celsius. Two practical consequences: do not place furniture directly next to or above a heater, and in winter, prioritize humidity over increased heat.

Care

For oiled surfaces, a dry or slightly damp cloth is sufficient, along with care oil applied in the direction of the grain once or twice a year. For lacquered surfaces, a damp cloth without additives is enough. Avoid microfiber with strong pressure, all-purpose cleaners, and standing water. Hot pots and wet glasses should be placed on coasters, as a white ring in oil, while repairable, requires effort.

Combining Oak

Oak complements almost any material, as long as the temperature of the tones matches. Warm, oiled oak pairs well with brass and travertine, while limed or grey oak tends to suit black, nickel, and marble. Two different oak tones in the same room rarely look convincing, whereas a clear contrast with another material almost always does.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is veneer inferior to solid wood?

No. Veneer is more dimensionally stable and allows for elaborate grain patterns that would not be possible with solid wood. For large panels, it is often the technically superior solution. The craftsmanship of the edges is crucial.

Why does an oak table develop fine cracks?

Because wood interacts with the ambient air. Dry heating air causes it to shrink. Between approximately 40 and 60 percent relative humidity, the movement remains imperceptible.

How do you care for oiled oak?

With a dry or slightly damp cloth, and care oil applied in the direction of the grain once or twice a year. All-purpose cleaners and standing water should be avoided.

Personal advice

We advise you personally and online. Send us your room dimensions or a photo at info@casa-luxury.de and we will put together a suitable selection for you.