Comparison Between Common Woods and Precious Woods: Key Differences

In the realm of timber, there are significant disparities between common woods and precious woods. The following analysis compares and contrasts common woods, such as pine and fir, with precious woods, like mahogany and walnut, across multiple dimensions.

1. Price Discrepancy
   Common woods are abundant and easy to obtain, making them affordable. Woods like pine, spruce, and plywood are typical low-cost options. In contrast, precious woods command higher prices due to their scarcity, excellent durability, and aesthetic appeal. Woods such as mahogany, ebony, and rosewood are regarded as the “luxuries” in the timber market.

2. Durability and Strength
   Common woods have a softer texture, making them prone to dents, scratches, and deformation during daily use. Precious woods, on the other hand, are highly rigid and wear-resistant. They can withstand long-term usage and abrasion, offering significantly longer service life. Examples include oak and teak.
   

3. Appearance and Grain
   Common woods typically feature light colors and simple grain patterns, as seen in birch and poplar. Precious woods, however, boast rich, captivating hues and unique, beautiful grain patterns. Woods like cherry, walnut, and zebrawood add an artistic touch to any work.

4. Workability
   Common woods are user-friendly for processing. Cutting, nailing, and sanding are relatively easy, making them ideal for DIY enthusiasts. Precious woods have dense structures, posing greater challenges in processing. Professional tools and skilled craftsmanship are often required to handle them properly.

5. Application Distinctions
   Common woods are commonly used in general woodworking projects, such as constructing building frames, making basic furniture, and producing shelves. Leveraging their high-end texture, precious woods are primarily applied in creating luxury furniture, laying solid wood flooring, manufacturing musical instruments, and conducting opulent decorations.
   

6. Maintenance Requirements
   Common woods have weak protective properties and usually demand regular maintenance and moisture-proof treatment. Most precious woods possess natural corrosion and pest resistance. Woods like teak and cedar require less frequent upkeep.
   Selection Recommendations
   If budget is limited or large quantities of timber are needed, common woods are the economical choice. For those seeking aesthetic appeal and long-term durability, precious woods meet the quality requirements. Additionally, common woods suffice for structural engineering projects, while precious woods better highlight value when crafting fine furniture.