Choosing the perfect wood for your furniture can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it's important to find a material that offers the perfect blend of eco-friendliness, affordability, and durability. Enter mango wood – a standout choice that ticks all the boxes. In this article, we'll explore the pros and cons of using mango wood for your furniture and why it's becoming increasingly popular among homeowners.
What Kind of Wood Comes From the Mango Tree?
The mango tree, famous for its delicious fruit, also yields excellent wood for furniture production. Widely cultivated in South Asia, Oceania, and tropical regions of Asia, the mango tree can grow up to 100ft tall and 4ft in diameter. Once the tree stops bearing fruit after about seven years, it is cut down and the wood is extracted for various purposes, including furniture production.
Properties of Mango Wood as a Furniture Material
Mango wood boasts several unique properties that make it ideal for furniture making:
Appearance
Unprocessed mango wood features a dark brown sapwood or outer coating, while the inner surface has a paler color. Processed wood, on the other hand, has a rough and golden brown appearance.
Grain
The surface of mango wood typically exhibits dark spots and irregular lines, which contribute to its distinctive grain. These fine yet unusual grains set mango wood apart from other hardwoods.
Toxicity
Mango wood is generally safe and non-toxic, with no reported severe reactions. However, it may cause mild skin irritation in some individuals.
Advantages of Using Mango Hardwood
Mango wood offers numerous advantages as a furniture material:
Eco-friendly and Sustainable
Mango wood is highly sustainable and eco-friendly. Harvesting only takes place after the tree has completed its fruit production lifespan. This ensures that no healthy trees are harmed for wood extraction, making it an excellent choice for environmentally-conscious individuals.
Great Usability
Despite being classified as a hardwood, mango lumber is more user-friendly compared to traditional hardwoods. It can be easily handled with basic tools and is compatible with nails, screws, and glue without cracking.
High Durability
Mango wood is renowned for its strength and density, making it one of the most durable woods available. Add a protective finish to enhance its durability. It also possesses natural resistance to termites, although it's not completely immune.
Low Maintenance
Maintaining mango wood furniture is hassle-free. Simply clean it with a soft, moist cloth to remove dust particles, and apply wax for added protection against drying.
Inexpensive
Compared to other hardwoods like oak and mahogany, mango wood is affordable and budget-friendly. You can purchase one-inch thick mango wood for as low as $5 to $15.
Different Colors and Patterns
Mango wood offers a wide range of colors, depending on the finishing or spalting of the timber. You can achieve gray, pinkish, brown, or yellow shades, and even darker variations with the right wood stain.
Water Resistance
Mango wood exhibits excellent water resistance, making it an ideal choice for outdoor furniture, decks, and patios. Polishing the wood further enhances its water-resistant properties.
Designs
Despite being a hardwood, mango wood is relatively soft compared to traditional hardwoods like oak and mahogany. This makes it easy to shape and carve according to your preferences.
Disadvantages of Mango Hardwood
While mango wood has many advantages, it also has a few drawbacks:
Prone to Insect and Fungus Attacks
Unlike some hardwoods, mango wood is susceptible to attacks from woodworms and insects. To protect your furniture, it's important to treat it with appropriate chemicals that provide a protective layer.
Not Strong Enough for Some Furniture
Mango wood is not suitable for furniture that requires longer spans, such as beds and wardrobes, as it can be prone to warping.
Prone to Discoloration
Exposure to sunlight can cause mango wood furniture to fade or crack. Darker shades may become even darker when subjected to prolonged sun exposure.
How Can You Use Mango as a Furniture Material?
Mango wood is a versatile material that can be used for various furniture purposes, both indoors and outdoors. Some examples include:
- Tables and countertops
- Doors and window frames
- Kitchen accessories (chopping boards, serving trays, bowls)
- Paneling and flooring
- Desks, stools, and chairs
- Musical instruments (drums, guitars)
- Large furnishings (wall cabinets, display units, kitchen cabinets)
Is the Mango Tree a Hardwood?
Yes, the mango tree provides hardwood timber with higher durability and strength compared to most softwoods. With a Janka hardness score of around 1,100 per foot, mango wood is a reliable choice for furniture making.
Is Mango Wood Good for Furniture?
Absolutely! Mango wood is ideal for making home decor pieces. Its high water resistance makes it suitable for outdoor and garden furnishings. It is also strong yet lightweight, making it perfect for larger furniture pieces like table sets, display units, and kitchen cabinets.
Mango Furniture Maintenance Tips
To keep your mango wood furniture in top condition, follow these maintenance tips:
- Use a soft cloth for cleaning; avoid rough materials.
- Avoid using ammonia detergents, as they can dry out the wood.
- Regularly rotate your furniture to expose all parts to sunlight and air.
- Keep your wooden furniture away from fireplaces to prevent warping.
- Cover scratches with matching paint as soon as you notice them.
In conclusion, mango wood is an increasingly popular choice for homeowners seeking affordable and durable furniture. Its eco-friendliness, usability, and unique properties make it a standout material for a wide range of furniture styles and purposes. Consider mango wood when selecting the perfect material for your next furniture project.
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