What is Rubberwood? Key Advantages, Limitations, and Comparisons

Rubberwood is a cheaper option that is easy to work with. This type of wood is also sustainable and considered low maintenance. However, it is not as durable or waterproof as other premium hardwoods. Understanding its pros and cons is essential to help you make informed decisions.

This article provides an overview that answers what rubberwood is, its advantages and limitations, as well as the comparisons with other woods. It also discusses how the right maintenance can help buyers keep the furniture look good and durable.

What is Rubberwood?

Rubberwood is a type of wood that comes from the rubber tree, which is mostly grown for making latex used in rubber products like tires and gloves. The wood is harvested and used for manufacturing furniture, flooring, and other products after the trees stop producing latex. This process typically takes place when the tree reaches 25-30 years old.

After the rubber trees stop producing latex, they will typically be cut down and wasted. Many people think rubberwood is toxic. However, chemical treatments are used during the processing and manufacturing. The aim is to protect wood from fungi, insects, dust, and other health-threatening substances.

Rubberwood Key Advantages

Compared to other types of wood, rubberwood has different strengths. The following are several disadvantages of rubberwood you must know:

Eco-friendly

For eco-conscious individuals and businesses who advocate for sustainability, rubberwood can be an option. The sustainability of rubberwood comes from the fact that the rubber trees are not being cut down solely for their wood. The trees have already served their primary purpose of producing latex.

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Cost-Effective

Rubberwood is usually cheaper than other choices of hardwoods, including oak. It can be cheap for many reasons. First, rubberwood is considered a byproduct and extra resource, not a primary product that requires high cost of planting and growing the tree. Additionally, many producers are located in regions with lower labor costs.

Flexible Design

The tree is easy to process, including the cutting, shaping, and finishing, which cut down the manufacturing costs. This gives designers and manufacturers flexibility to create different styles and designs more easily compared to other hardwoods.

Performance

While not the hardest wood, rubberwood still offers good strength and durability for many everyday uses, especially when properly treated. This advantage often helps contractors or designers to find a more affordable alternative without compromising quality.

Low maintenance

Rubberwood furniture is generally easy to care for. For example, regular dusting and occasional polishing are enough to keep it looking good. This can be a perfect option for homeowners who sometimes don’t have time to regularly clean the furniture.

Risks and Limitations of Rubberwood

While rubberwood offers many advantages, you still have to consider its risks and limitations. These are the main disadvantages of rubberwood: 

Sensitivity to Moisture 

Rubberwood is not naturally waterproof. It can absorb moisture and swell or warp if kept in damp places and exposed to water. To compensate for this, choose products that are sealed with waterproof materials.

Chemical Treatments & Safety

This risk may pose less harm to customers, but can be highly crucial for workers. Rubberwood is often treated with chemicals to prevent insect damage. These treatments are safe when the wood is finished but can be a concern during manufacturing.

Durability Compared to Premium Hardwoods

Rubberwood is considered durable for everyday use. However, compared to other hardwoods, the durability of rubberwood is inferior. It may show wear faster, especially if being put in a living room where people move or touch the furniture a lot. It can get scratched, faded, or dented.

Allergies / Latex Residue

Some people who are highly allergic to latex may worry about rubberwood. In fact, the manufacturers would remove the latex during the production. Therefore, the risk of allergic reactions is actually very low, but may still have a small chance of people getting a reaction.

Heat sensitivity

Rubberwood can be sensitive to heat and may get damaged or discolored easily if exposed to hot objects or direct sunlight for long periods. This disadvantage limits people who want to put the furniture outdoors or next to windows. 

Rubberwood vs. Other Woods: Comparison

Once you understand what rubberwood is, you might be interested in how it stacks up against other types of hardwood. Here are some key comparisons to consider:

Rubberwood vs Oak, Maple, Teak

Oak, maple, and teak are different in nature. Unlike rubberwood, these trees are grown specifically for their wood, making them a primary product. They tend to be more durable and harder than rubberwood.

However, oak, maple, and teak can be more expensive. On the other hand, rubberwood is more affordable and lighter, but not as strong and long-lasting.

Rubberwood vs Engineered Wood (MDF, Plywood)

The main differences between rubberwood and MDF or Plywood is the production process. Engineered woods like MDF and plywood are made from wood fibers, not a whole tree. Although they are a product of the manufacturing process, the finished wood can be very stable and smooth, but less natural. 

Since rubberwood is solid wood they offer a more natural feel. In terms of its strength, rubberwood is relatively stronger than engineered woods.

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Rubberwood vs Exotic or High-End Hardwoods

Exotic woods are made from exotic, premium, and rare trees, including Brazilian Walnut and African Mahogany. They offer exceptional durability and beauty. However, these products come with a very expensive price and environmental issues. 

Rubberwood can be limited, but not rare in the same way. When it comes to luxury appeal and prestige, rubberwood can’t match high-end woods. However, rubberwood is clearly more affordable and eco-friendly.

Rubberwood Maintenance Tips

To compensate for rubberwood less durability and non-waterproof characteristics, here are 4 best practices to maintain your furniture to keep it in good condition over time:

1. Keep the surface dry. Some furniture like tables and chairs are sometimes prone to spills. Wipe up spills immediately and avoid placing them in humid areas.
2. Avoid using harsh chemicals. If you want to clean the furniture, make sure to use gentle cleaning products. Only use a soft, damp cloth and dry the surface completely afterward.
3. Protect from heavy objects. Rubberwood is relatively softer compared to oak or teak. It can easily get scratched. Therefore, you can try using pads under or above, and avoid dragging them on the ground.
4. Apply wood polish. Sooner or later, the furniture will be exposed with moisture or heat over time, no matter where you place them. To preserve it, you can try adding a protective layer using a wood polish.

Key Takeaways

Rubberwood has its own pros and cons. Whether you're working with rubberwood or upgrading to premium hardwoods, choosing the right wood makes all the difference in transforming your space.

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