A practical guide to wood finishes
Practical planning advice. Confirm product specifications and options directly with AK.
Compare solid wood, veneer, laminate and painted finishes by appearance, durability, maintenance and cost. Ask for physical samples in the room where the furniture will be installed.
Separate the surface from the structure
Solid wood, veneer and laminate describe different constructions. Veneer is a thin real-wood surface over a core; laminate is a manufactured surface. Ask what the core, edges and backing are made from, not only what the visible face looks like.
Compare samples in your room
View physical samples beside the flooring and wall colour in daylight and evening light. A colour on a screen cannot show the actual grain, gloss or texture. Keep the approved sample or its specification with the quotation.
Choose for the conditions
Discuss moisture exposure, direct sunlight and cleaning routines. Pay particular attention to edges near sinks and areas touched frequently. Ask what cleaning products are suitable and which marks or wear can be repaired.
Write down the specification
Confirm the material, surface finish, colour or sample code and hardware in the proposal. Ask how natural variation or a replacement panel would be handled. Compare quotes on the same specification rather than colour alone.
Bring measurements and questions to a conversation with AK.
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