What Is a Live Edge Coffee Table?
Coffee tables made from live edge wood are not average. They are unique in every way. A live edge coffee table uses wood that maintains the shape of its natural edges. It is neither refined nor altered. A coffee table with a live edge design is always a one-of-a-kind piece with a lot of charm and character, and no two designs are alike, making it a more precious piece.
Coffee tables with live edges are often customized. You choose the wood slab you like and have it made to your preference. Designs, stains, finishes, and the type of seal used must all be considered when making this furniture.
Best Woods for Live Edge Coffee Tables
With numerous wood species available domestically, choosing the best wood can get overwhelming. The physical appearance of the wood is not the only consideration since you must also factor in how it can withstand spills from coffee and how heat-resistant it is.
Most domestic hardwoods and softwoods can be used for furniture making, including making coffee tables. But, the best woods we recommend for live edge coffee tables are the following:
- Ash
- Black walnut
- Boxelder
- Cedar
- Cherry
- Hickory
- Maple
- Oak (red or white)
- Redwood
Other woods not mentioned above work fine as coffee tables, too. But, the ones we listed are the ones we consider the best choice given their durability and aesthetics, including the natural color of their heartwood and sapwood, as well as grains and texture.
Care and Maintenance Tips for Live Edge Coffee Table
Tables need tender loving care. Coffee tables do not serve as mere decorations. They’re functional, thus, they experience wear and tear too. Spills and stains are also common on top of dealing with hot cups.
Taking care of a beautiful piece like a live edge coffee table includes using coasters to ensure that hot mugs and cups won’t touch the wood directly. You must wipe spills and stains off the table top immediately. Sealing and resealing of the unique table are also highly advisable, given the nature of its function in the living space.
FAQs
Is live edge furniture durable?
Yes, they are durable if the wood you choose for the furniture is sturdy and strong. Woods have different densities, hardness, and strength. So, it is best to research the particular wood you like to use in furniture to ensure that it can withstand the test of time.
Do I need to seal a live edge coffee table?
Sealing a live edge coffee table is a must. Since a coffee table is prone to spills, stains, and coming in contact with hot items, sealing it protects it from harmful elements that can damage the wood in the long run. You must re-seal any wood furniture every year or two to ensure the wood remains protected.
Does a live edge table cracks?
Wood moves in different environments. It can either expand or contract depending on its surroundings. That said, a live edge slab used for the coffee table must be mounted properly to ensure enough space for the wood slab to expand and contract as much as it wants. If not, then the probability of cracking is high.
Where to Buy Live Edge Coffee Table
Live edge coffee tables are the current fad. It exudes timeless class and adds a natural element to any interior. You can purchase this style in furniture shops and specialty stores such as Alderfer Lumber Company Inc.
We have a good inventory of slabs, sustainably sourced from various kinds of woods, that can fit your dream design. Our live edge slabs are in good condition since they are dried and stored properly.
We also provide custom millwork where we can make a live edge coffee table to your specifications.
Give us a call or email us if you have any questions! We are happy to help.
