The Top 10 Answers to Questions About Farmhouse Tables
When considering the purchase or customization of a farmhouse table, several common questions tend to arise. Here's a comprehensive look at the top ten FAQs about farmhouse tables, offering guidance to ensure you choose the perfect piece for your home, with insights from experts at Minnesota Farmhouse.
What size farmhouse table do I need?
Consider not only the number of people you regularly host but also the size of your dining area. A well-sized table should balance the space available without overcrowding the room. It's essential to leave ample space around the table for movement and chairs. If your gatherings vary in size, consider a table with extensions that can accommodate more guests when needed. This flexibility allows you to adjust the table size according to your hosting needs, ensuring everyone has enough space at the table.What kind of wood should I choose?
The choice of wood for your farmhouse table not only defines its look but also its longevity and maintenance needs. Options include reclaimed woods like pine and oak, which offer a unique character with their distinct grain patterns and natural imperfections that add a rustic charm to your space. These woods are often sought after for their environmental friendliness and historical significance. Alternatively, maple provides a smoother, more uniform look with its fine, consistent grain, making it ideal for more contemporary or refined settings. Maple is also known for its durability and resistance to wear, which can be beneficial for tables that will see heavy use.What is the most durable finish?
For the best protection of your farmhouse table, a clear top coat applied over stained or painted wood is highly recommended. This coating not only preserves the beauty of the wood but also offers a shield against everyday wear and tear, making it ideal for tables frequently used for dining or as work surfaces. To further protect your table, use placemats and coasters to prevent heat damage, water rings, and scratches from everyday use. These simple accessories can significantly extend the life of your table's finish by acting as a barrier against potential damage. It's also beneficial to choose a finish that suits your lifestyle; for instance, a polyurethane coat is more resistant to heat and solvents, making it ideal for families with young children or for tables that are used heavily.How do I care for my table?
Wipe with a damp cloth and avoid harsh chemicals. Specific care tips vary by finish type. We discuss this in more detail in our blog post titled: 'How to clean and maintain your farmhouse table: top 5 tips’What are the aesthetic considerations for choosing a farmhouse table?
The aesthetic appeal of your farmhouse table significantly influences the style and ambiance of your dining space. Minnesota Farmhouse offers a variety of designs, each with unique characteristics to complement different decor styles:Craftsman Knotty Alder: This table combines the timeless appeal of Craftsman style with the rustic charm of knotty alder wood, known for its distinctive grain patterns and robust character.
English Country Table Knotty Alder: Features traditional English country style with turned legs, adding a touch of classic elegance and a sense of historical beauty to any room.
Country X Knotty Alder: Showcases a rustic 'X' base design, blending traditional craftsmanship with sophisticated style, making it a standout piece that merges old-world charm with contemporary living.
Metal X Base Walnut: Merges the rustic warmth of walnut wood with a modern industrial metal 'X' base, offering a contemporary look that complements both traditional and modern interiors.
Each style brings its unique vibe, from rustic to contemporary, allowing you to choose a table that not only meets your functional needs but also complements your home's decor. For a comprehensive view of all the designs we sell, you can explore our full collection here.How long will it take to receive my table?
Production times range from 6-12 weeks, influenced by order volume and time of year.Can I order online?
Standard items can be ordered directly from our online shop, but custom pieces often require direct communication to finalize details. Visit our online shop for pieces that can be ordered immediately.What is a smooth groove finish?
This innovative finish involves filling the natural grooves of a planked wood surface with a clear polymer. This process not only preserves the rustic, planked appearance of the wood but also creates a smooth, easy-to-clean surface that is ideal for daily use. The clear polymer fills any gaps and inconsistencies in the wood, which not only enhances the table’s durability by providing a uniform surface that prevents food particles and liquids from getting trapped but also maintains the aesthetic appeal of visible wood grains and knots. This type of finish is particularly advantageous for families with young children or for use in high-traffic areas, as it simplifies maintenance without sacrificing style.How are the tables constructed?
To ensure durability and stability, the tables are constructed using high-quality wood glue and biscuits that create strong, seamless joins. This traditional woodworking technique involves fitting pieces of compressed wood (biscuits) into precision-cut slots in the wood, which are then glued to form a tight and secure bond. This method not only enhances the structural integrity of the table but also allows for a cleaner aesthetic as the joints are almost invisible. The use of these materials and techniques results in a solid piece of furniture capable of withstanding daily use and lasting for generations. The craftsmanship involved in this process reflects a commitment to quality and attention to detail, ensuring that each table is not only functional but also a beautiful addition to any home.What types of wood are used?
Minnesota Farmhouse uses only kiln-dried, furniture-grade woods like white pine, knotty alder, and oak, which are selected for their quality and stability. Kiln drying is a crucial process that removes moisture from the wood, ensuring that it is less likely to warp, shrink, or swell. This stabilizes the wood, making it ideal for furniture that lasts. Each type of wood brings its own unique properties:White Pine offers a soft, lightweight, and versatile option, often chosen for its fine grain and smooth finish.
Knotty Alder provides a slightly harder alternative, well-loved for its rustic appearance and the character added by its visible knots.
Oak is valued for its exceptional strength and durability, featuring a prominent grain that makes each piece distinctly appealing.
For more FAQs or to ask further questions, you can schedule a visit to our shop at 30190 Roanoke St NW, Cambridge, MN, call us at (763) 843-8134, or fill out our contact form at the bottom of this page.
We’re excited to help you find the perfect farmhouse table!
