About Our Wood
At Minimaal en Mooi Houtwerke, we take pride in using authentic wood sourced both locally and globally. With a selection of twenty distinct wood species, we have options to match every style, taste, and budget. We believe in the unparalleled beauty and durability of solid wood, so we never use engineered substitutes.
When you choose our products, you’re investing in genuine, high-quality wood that will stand the test of time. The color and grain patterns of wood significantly influence the ambiance of your space. To help you make the best choice, we offer wood and finish samples, allowing you to see and feel the wood in person before making a decision. By comparing multiple options, you can confidently select the perfect wood for your project.
​
Each piece of wood is unique, with variations in color and grain pattern even within the same species. This natural diversity is part of what makes wood so beautiful. We strongly recommend ordering samples to get an accurate sense of our current inventory and envision how your finished piece will look.​
Understanding the Characteristics of Wood
At Minimaal en Mooi Houtwerke, we celebrate the natural beauty and diversity of wood. By understanding these characteristics, you can make informed choices that best suit your style and functional needs.
Grain Pattern
Each wood species we use has its own distinctive grain pattern, akin to the unique fingerprint of a tree. Some woods feature straight, regular grains, while others exhibit knotty, intricate patterns. Certain species, like Zebrawood, boast dramatic and eye-catching grain patterns that add a unique flair to your space.
Shrinking & Expanding
Wood is a natural material that responds to changes in humidity. Most wood species will slightly shrink or swell with seasonal changes. To mitigate this, we use high-quality finishes that help maintain the wood's dimensional stability, ensuring your furniture retains its form and beauty throughout the year.
Hardness
The Janka hardness scale measures the resistance of wood to denting and wear by determining the force required to embed a small metal ball halfway into the wood. Hardness varies among wood species, even within the "hardwoods" category. This characteristic is especially important for surfaces that endure heavy use, such as countertops, or in commercial applications where durability is paramount.
Density
Each wood species has its own density and weight characteristics. For example, Western Red Cedar is known for its lower density, making it an excellent choice for large doors due to its lighter weight. Understanding the density of wood helps us select the best material for your specific needs, balancing strength and functionality.
Uniqueness
Every tree is unique, leading to natural variations in color and grain pattern within the same species. This uniqueness ensures that each piece of wood used in our projects is one-of-a-kind, adding an element of individuality and charm to your custom woodworking piece.