Is Rubberwood a Good Choice for Furniture? Exploring the Pros and Cons

Ever wondered if rubberwood is a good choice for your furniture? You’re not alone! It comes from the rubber tree and is considered eco-friendly. But its density can make it tricky to work with. 

In this article, we’ll break down the advantages and disadvantages of rubberwood compared to other popular options like oak and walnut. Let’s see if rubberwood suits your furniture needs!

Rubberwood furniture, an eco-friendly choice from latex-producing trees, offers durability and affordability. However, it requires proper care to prevent water damage and pest issues, making it a sustainable and practical option for furniture.

What is Rubberwood?

Rubberwood comes from the Pará rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis), primarily found in regions of Asia, Africa, and South America. These trees are mainly cultivated for their latex, used in rubber production. However, once they reach the end of their latex-producing life cycle, they are harvested for their wood, known as rubberwood.

Rubberwood is a versatile material used to produce various products, including furniture, flooring, cabinetry, and decorative items. Its light color darkens beautifully over time, making it a popular choice for furniture such as tables, chairs, cabinets, and bed frames. Additionally, its eco-friendly nature, being a byproduct of the rubber industry, adds to its appeal as a sustainable option for woodworking projects.

rubber tree plantation

The Pros of Rubber Wood Furniture

1. Sustainability

Sustainability is a key aspect of using rubberwood for furniture. With approximately 10% of the world’s forests being cut down annually for fast-wood production, the environmental impact is significant. However, harvesting rubberwood offers a green solution. This wood comes from rubber trees in South America and Asia that have completed their latex production cycle. 

Instead of being discarded, these trees are repurposed into logs for furniture, reducing environmental footprint and offering an affordable alternative to traditional hardwoods. Rubberwood’s unique lifecycle, transitioning from latex production to wood harvesting, makes it a sustainable choice, minimizing the need for constant land clearing and promoting environmental conservation.

2. Durability

Rubberwood is renowned for its strength and durability, despite common misconceptions. As a hardwood from the maple family, it boasts impressive characteristics. With a strength of about 9500 psi, stiffness of 1.3 million PSI, and a hardness rating of 500 pounds, it rivals other hardwoods like oak in durability. Its natural shock absorbency makes it a preferred choice for gymnasiums and high-traffic areas. 

Additionally, its resistance to scratches and dents makes it ideal for homes with children. With proper maintenance, rubberwood furniture and flooring can last up to thirty years, offering a long-lasting investment.

3. Affordability

Rubberwood offers affordability, making it an attractive option for furniture and flooring. As a byproduct of the rubber industry, it is priced lower than traditional hardwoods like oak. While some may perceive rubberwood as less durable, it provides excellent value for its cost. With natural latex production being the primary focus of rubberwood trees, the wood itself is considered a byproduct. This cost-efficient production method results in savings that are passed on to consumers. Choosing rubberwood flooring can help homeowners stay within budget while still achieving the desired aesthetic for their space.

4. Rubberwood’s Stain and Paint Capabilities

Rubberwood is highly receptive to stains and paints, offering versatility in design. It takes stains and finishes exceptionally well, allowing for customization to match any aesthetic preference or setting. While seasoning rubberwood is necessary to eliminate odors, it may leave behind brown stains that penetrate deep into the wood. 

However, these stains can be effectively concealed with various staining options, providing countless possibilities to enhance the wood’s appearance. Alternatively, the natural golden brown color of treated rubberwood presents an attractive option for those seeking a minimalist décor approach.

5. Contribution to Quality Furniture

Rubberwood stands out as a top choice for quality furniture production due to its exceptional durability and longevity, often surpassing even maple and teak wood in endurance. Its dense grain structure contributes significantly to its resilience, ensuring minimal shrinkage and cracking over time. Despite its robust nature, rubberwood boasts a light blond color that seamlessly complements various design styles, offering versatility in aesthetic appeal. 

With proper care, such as regular cleaning with a damp cloth, rubberwood furniture can maintain its integrity and appearance for years to come. Additionally, its stable composition makes it ideal for crafting durable and reliable furniture pieces, while its attractive natural color adds to its allure.

The Cons of Using Rubberwood for Furniture

1. Perishable Nature

Rubberwood, while valued for its durability and versatility, is also known for its perishable nature, requiring diligent care to prevent degradation over time. Susceptible to fungal staining and insect infestations, it demands regular maintenance to safeguard against these threats. Chemical treatments may be necessary to mitigate these risks, albeit at the expense of environmental concerns. Moreover, the allure of rubberwood attracts various wood-loving pests like beetles and termites, posing a threat to furniture integrity if left unchecked. 

While rubberwood presents a sustainable option by repurposing trees previously used for latex production, sourcing practices must be scrutinized to ensure environmental responsibility. Concerns arise regarding rubber tree plantation expansion at the expense of rainforest ecosystems, highlighting the need for sustainable forestry practices in rubberwood production.

2. Latex Allergies

For individuals with latex allergies, caution is warranted when considering furniture made from rubberwood due to its inherent latex content. Contact with rubberwood may trigger allergic reactions ranging from mild skin irritation to more severe symptoms like anaphylactic shock. Given its association with natural latex, rubberwood poses a potential risk for those susceptible to latex allergies. Therefore, it’s advisable for individuals with known latex sensitivities to consult medical professionals before choosing rubberwood furniture for their homes.

3. Water Damage

Rubberwood furniture is susceptible to water damage, making it crucial to exercise caution when using it in environments prone to moisture, like bathrooms or kitchens. Exposure to water can cause rubberwood to become slippery when wet and may lead to deterioration over time. Therefore, it’s essential to implement preventive measures and avoid prolonged exposure to moisture to maintain the integrity and longevity of rubberwood furniture pieces.

4. Limited availability

Limited availability refers to the relatively restricted access to rubberwood compared to more commonly used hardwoods like oak or maple. Rubberwood is primarily sourced from rubber tree plantations in regions such as South America and Asia. However, these plantations may not be as widespread or accessible as those for other hardwood species. As a result, furniture makers and consumers may encounter challenges in finding a wide variety of rubberwood furniture options or specific pieces they desire. Limited availability can also affect pricing and lead times for rubberwood furniture products.

Is rubberwood a good choice for making furniture?

Yes, rubberwood is a good choice for making furniture. It is durable, eco-friendly, and resistant to shrinking and warping. Rubberwood has a fine grain and can be easily stained or painted, offering versatility in furniture design. Additionally, it is often more affordable compared to other hardwoods. However, it does require proper care and maintenance to prevent damage from moisture and pests. Overall, rubberwood is a reliable and sustainable option for quality furniture.

Rubberwood furniture, when properly cared for, boasts an impressive lifespan of up to 20 years. Consistent maintenance is key to preserving its longevity, ensuring you can enjoy its beauty and functionality for decades to come.

Yes, rubberwood can darken with age, especially when exposed to UV rays like those from sunlight. To prevent excessive darkening and maintain its original appearance, it’s best to avoid direct sunlight on rubberwood furniture.

Maintaining the Integrity: Care Tips for Rubberwood Furniture

Maintaining rubberwood furniture is relatively straightforward and can help preserve its appearance and lifespan. Regular cleaning is essential, including dusting regularly and washing gently with a microfiber or organic cotton cloth, mild dish soap, and cool water at least twice a year. Ensure to dry the furniture immediately after cleaning to prevent water damage. 

For minor repairs, such as dents or scratches, wood filler can be used for larger areas, while heat from a hot iron applied with a tea towel can help reduce damage in smaller areas. Avoid exposing rubberwood furniture to heat sources like radiators to prevent warping or cracking. Additionally, keep the furniture out of direct sunlight to prevent bleaching, and wipe up any spills promptly. Finally, sealing the wood with a high-quality, zero-VOC stain/sealer can enhance its durability and longevity.

In Conclusion

Choosing rubberwood for your furniture needs can be a sustainable and cost-effective option, offering durability, versatility, and aesthetic appeal. With its eco-friendly credentials and impressive strength, rubberwood stands as a viable alternative to traditional hardwoods. However, it’s essential to acknowledge its perishable nature and susceptibility to water damage, as well as considerations regarding latex allergies and limited availability.

By understanding both the advantages and disadvantages of rubberwood, you can make informed decisions when selecting furniture for your home. With proper care and maintenance, rubberwood furniture can grace your living space with timeless elegance and functionality for years to come.

Experience with Deep Furniture, your reliable furniture manufacturer and exporter in Muar, Johor, Malaysia. Elevate your space with our exquisite furniture collection. Explore now!