Viilu

Viilu is a thin sheet of wood used as a decorative surface for furniture, cabinetry, and interior panels. Typically ranging from about 0.2 to 3 millimeters in thickness, veneer is applied to a less expensive core material such as plywood, MDF, or particleboard to give the appearance of solid wood while reducing material costs and weight.

Veneers are produced by removing layers from a log through rotary-cutting, plain slicing (flat-cut), or quarter- or crown-cut methods. The resulting sheets are dried, graded for grain pattern, color, and defects, and then cut to size. Common species used for viilu include oak, maple, birch, walnut, cherry, and pine, though virtually any wood can be used. Veneers can exhibit a variety of grain figures, such as cathedral, rift, or burl patterns, and may be stained or finished to enhance appearance.

Applications and substrates: Veneer sheets are bonded to substrates like plywood, medium-density fiberboard (MDF), or particleboard and then pressed. They are finished with stains, varnishes, or lacquers to protect the surface and achieve the desired look. In addition to furniture and cabinetry, viilu is used in doors, wall panels, and decorative veneered panels.

Advantages and considerations: Viilu enables the use of expensive or scarce wood species on large surfaces and improves material efficiency while maintaining a natural wood appearance. Limitations include sensitivity to moisture and potential edge fiber separation if bonding is poor; proper handling and backing are important for durability. Regular care involves avoiding excessive moisture and cleaning with a soft cloth.