In recent years, products made from pine wood have experienced a real hype due to their positive properties. Nevertheless, there are also reports of supposed or actual pine wood disadvantages, not all of which seem to fit the specific properties of pine wood. The following disadvantages are mentioned in detail:
- Pine wood products lose important properties when varnished
- Toxic substances are produced when cleaning the products
- Pine wood products are difficult to care for
- Products are not dishwasher safe
- Pine wood is relatively soft and therefore prone to denting
Pine wood loses some of its positive properties when varnished
Varnished surfaces – including those of pine wood – close the pores and serve to protect the surface from external influences. This generally also applies to pine wood products. However, an important property of pine wood is its open-pored nature, through which essential oils such as pinosylvin are released to the outside. The pinosylvin in pine wood creates its typical scent and its bactericidal and fungicidal effects, provided that the pores of the wood are not closed by a varnish or other surface sealant.Surface sealing of products made from pine wood causes the wood to lose another important property. It normally balances the humidity, absorbing excess moisture and releasing it back into drier ambient air. In bread bins made of pine wood, the balance of humidity has a high significance for the shelf life of the bread products.
The problem of the sealed surface can be easily solved by simply leaving the surface of the pine wood in its natural state. Treatment with fine sandpaper with a grit of about 250 creates an attractive, smooth surface without sealing the pores. The positive properties of pine wood are not affected by this.
Is pine wood toxic from care?
The pinosylvin contained in pine wood with essential properties has bactericidal and fungicidal effects and is not suitable for internal applications, meaning it should not be consumed. The typical smell and scent that pinosylvin emits even have positive properties for humans. The question of whether pine wood is toxic can be answered with a clear no, as long as the pine wood remains natural.The use of common household cleaning agents when caring for pine wood can lead to reactions between the cleaning agent and the essential oils of the wood. Temporarily toxic substances can be produced. The same applies to waxing pine wood with beeswax. Treating the surfaces with beeswax can even lead to a temporary, unpleasant odor.
So what to do? Avoiding the above problems is incredibly simple. Pine wood care should only be done with a duster and, for heavier soiling, with clear water. You just need to ensure that the wet pine wood dries slowly again, i.e., not on the heater or with a hairdryer, as the wood could then warp or crack. Light sanding after drying makes the surfaces smooth and fresh again.
Caring for a pine wood bread bin is easy
Bread bins made of pine wood are very popular because the pinosylvin they contain prevents mold formation in the bread bin and provides a certain amount of moisture regulation. For pine wood bread bin care, the principle also applies that only clear water should be used for cleaning, so as not to deprive the wood of its antibacterial, fungicidal, and moisture-regulating properties. It is important not to hinder the breathability of the pine wood surface.Pine wood products are not dishwasher safe
For the reasons outlined above, pine wood surfaces should only be cleaned with a dry duster, a damp cloth, or, in the case of very heavy soiling, with clear water without any added detergent. This means that pine wood parts are also not suitable for the dishwasher. We therefore advise simply rinsing the parts with clear tap water in case of heavy soiling and then allowing them to dry slowly at room temperature.
The relatively soft pine wood is prone to denting
Compared to other softwoods, pine wood is relatively hard, but compared to hardwoods like oak or beech, it is relatively soft. This means that rough handling of pine wood products can leave small dents on the surface. What you as a user might perceive as a disadvantage is an advantage for the carpenter or sculptor because the wood is relatively easy to work with.Not all our veneered products are prone to denting. The wood, hay, or stone veneers are laminated on the back and coated or oiled on the front. They are therefore absolutely shatterproof, durable, and stable. The products require practically no care other than an occasional dusting or wiping with a damp cloth.
Frequently asked questions
What are the real disadvantages of pine wood?
Pine wood is more expensive than many alternative woods and can warp in dry rooms (small cracks can appear). It is softer and less wear-resistant. However, for many buyers, the advantages outweigh these disadvantages.
Is pine wood really beneficial for health?
Pine wood emits a pleasant scent, and many report improved sleep quality. Scientific studies show positive effects, but it is not a miracle cure. The psychological effect of the natural scent is often significant.
What is pine oil known for?
Pine oil, extracted from the wood, is said to have calming and relaxing properties. It is traditionally used to promote sleep and clear airways. The characteristic scent is unmistakable.
Can I use a pine wood lamp in any room?
Yes, pine wood lamps are versatile and suit various interior styles. They optimally unfold their relaxing effect especially in the bedroom and living room.