How Do I Choose the Best Oak Kitchen Tables?

A homeowner who prefers a beautiful and durable piece of furniture may want to consider oak kitchen tables for his or her home. This hardwood is exceptionally hard and strong, and it has an attractive wood grain that can be showcased when the wood is quarter-sawn for use in construction. Choosing the best oak kitchen tables starts by determining your needs: you will need to measure the space in which the table will be placed so you can figure out which size will be most appropriate for the space. Think about how many people will sit at the table during meals and other events.

Once you have figured out which size you need, think about whether you need an expandable table that will feature expansion leaves. This will add cost to the table, but it will also make the unit more versatile and useful in a variety of situations. Some expansion leaf designs are permanently affixed to the table via hinges, while others are removable and can be stored when not in use. Think about which design will suit your needs best, and make sure to consider where people will sit when using the table. Leaves that stay attached may prevent some parts of the table from being used when the leaves are down.

Two basic options exist for purchasing oak kitchen tables: you can either purchase prefabricated or custom-built models. Custom-built oak kitchen tables will be more expensive and may take more time between the order placement and delivery, but getting the table custom-built will ensure you get exactly what you want and need. The furniture maker will be able to create an attractive piece and include any features you need to make the table work well in your space. If the prices of custom oak kitchen tables are too high for you, prefabricated models can be attractive and durable as well.

Be sure to do a bit of research into oak so you will be able to distinguish it from other woods. The grain and color will be fairly distinctive, but other woods can mimic the look of oak and may in some cases be passed off as oak. Only buy oak kitchen tables from reputable dealers who offer return policies or warranties. Before purchasing, inspect the table carefully to ensure it is not damaged in any way, and make sure all joints are created solidly. The table should not wobble, squeak, or otherwise indicate that joints are loose.