Oak wood characteristics
The genus unites several hundred species, most of them are tall massive trees with dense hardwood. Growth conditions affect properties, but all species are characterized by hardness, resistance to deformation, resistance to cutting, wear resistance.
Technical characteristics of oak wood:
- specific gravity – 550–700 kg/m3 for dry material;
- volume weight (at 10-15% moisture content) – 700-800 kg/ m3, the mass of 1 m3 of a freshly cut tree exceeds 1000 kg;
- compressive strength along the fiber line – 56 MPa, with static bending – 87 MPa;
- modulus of elasticity – 12.3 GPa;
- natural humidity – up to 60%, after drying, the mass decreases;
- end hardness of oak wood – 57.3 N/mm2, radial – 48.2 N/mm2, tangential – 52.8 N/mm2;< /li>
- thermal conductivity – 200/400 mW (mxK) across, 400 mW(mxK) along fiber line;
- low hygroscopicity.
The color range of oak is wide, ranging from almost white to almost black. Grayish, brown and golden hues are common, red colors are not typical. The texture is porous, the radial rays are clear. Oak wood is considered a reference, used to create decorative coatings. When in water, the tree does not rot, it becomes stronger, darkens.
Types and styles of kitchens
A kitchen set of any kind can be made from solid oak. The linear method of installing furniture is applicable in a room of any size. In a small square kitchen, L-shaped sets are convenient. Corner furniture makes life easier for the hostess, everything is at hand. In a spacious room, you can install furniture in the form of the letter “P” or organize an island.
A variety of shades, a unique pattern allow you to make furniture from solid wood, made in any style:
- For the Provence style, light colors are preferable. Facades can be made of glass, decorating it with textured drawings.
- Depending on the area of the room for a headset in a classic style, you can choose bog or bleached oak. Volumetric carved patterns complement the facade well. Massive furniture allows you to use the entire palette of shades. Fans of antiquity can use one of the methods of artificial aging.
- Baroque furniture is a luxury, the use of expensive decor. It is necessary to provide options for combining the style of furniture and modern household appliances.
- The “correct” loft is a natural array, simple, even rough forms, natural shades, high quality.
- Smooth natural lines, luxurious finishing materials – glass, metal, exotic woods.
- A rustic-style solid oak kitchen is good not only for a country house, it will create a cozy atmosphere in a city apartment.
Pros and cons of an oak wood kitchen
Benefits of solid oak:
- creating an atmosphere of comfort, prosperity;
- durability, with regular care, an oak kitchen will last more than 100 years;
- safety, no harmful components;
< li>wide range of colors;
- pleasant natural aroma;
- possibility to repair, restore furniture.
Fashion trends do not affect the popularity of solid oak furniture; over the years, the appearance becomes more refined. The main disadvantage is the high cost, but if you divide it by the service life, then the purchase of an oak kitchen turns out to be a profitable investment.
The set is heavy, there will be problems when changing the layout. Like any wood product, solid wood furniture needs care and protection. It is important to use products that do not violate the structure of the wood.
Kitchen furniture made of solid oak, care
The material is widely in demand among furniture manufacturers, it is easy to process, and securely holds fasteners.
To preserve the natural beauty, the wood is not stained, it is used:
- staining to darken the color;
- bleaching;
- varnishing;
- impregnation with oil or wax
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Moisture resistance and high hardness have made oak the best choice for a kitchen set.
