A Description of Wooden Desks and Types of Wood

Types of Wood

• Three major types of wood are used to make a modern wooden desk: hardwood, plywood and medium-density fiberboard. Hardwoods are more expensive to source. Plywood is a strong, durable wood that can bear a heavy load. Many desks that you buy in the store are actually a fine veneer applied to a medium-density fiberboard.

Parts

• A wooden desk will consist of certain features. There needs to be a flat writing surface and four wooden desk legs. Optional components are small drawers and file drawers. A small drawer might be as simple as a pullout drawer in which to store stationery and pens. A file drawer should be wide enough to hang file folders. Some desks even have hidden compartments.

Finish

• Even if a hardwood or plywood is used for an entire desk, the maker must create a wood finish. A desk is finished to protect against damage, such as water rings from the bottom of beverage cups. The finish might be a wood stain or polish, and it helps to seal out moisture while providing a final tone for the wood. Some commercial desks include a plastic laminate finish.

Different Designs

• A basic leg and apron writing desk includes four wooden legs and an apron of wood across one side. This apron provides a facade for the desk, concealing drawers where the writer sits behind the desk. A work station desk, for a computer setup or for drawing, might be simpler (with no apron of wood). It might just be a sturdy surface, such has plywood mounted on an aluminum frame with wheels. This type of desk might not include any drawers.