What size oak dining table do I need?

Allow 60cm of table width per person as a minimum. For four people a 120cm table works; for six you want at least 150cm x 90cm or a 130cm round table; for eight you need 180cm or more. Our extending tables are ideal if your needs vary: compact for daily family use and expanding fully for guests. Always allow 90cm clearance from the table edge to the wall so chairs can be pulled out properly.

How do I protect an oak dining table from scratches and water marks?

Use placemats and coasters as standard. Wipe spills immediately with a soft, dry cloth before they soak in. Apply a quality furniture wax or oil every three to six months depending on how hard the table works. For extra protection during heavy use, a glass top or silicone table mat works well. Avoid placing hot dishes directly on the surface. Most minor surface scratches can be rubbed out with fine wire wool and rewaxing.

Do oak dining benches scratch wood flooring?

They can, particularly on wooden or LVT floors. Fit felt floor protector pads to all bench legs before use. Check them every few months as felt pads compress and can slip. For benches that get moved frequently, rubber ferrules are more durable than felt. We sell floor protector pads in our showroom if you need them.

Can I mix an oak dining table with different chairs?

Absolutely. Mixed seating has been a mainstream interior design choice for years. Oak dining tables pair especially well with upholstered dining chairs in linen, velvet, or leather. Painted chairs in dark navy or sage green contrast nicely against natural oak. The key is keeping one element consistent, whether that's the chair leg style, the seat height, or a linking colour.

How long does oak furniture last?

With proper care, oak furniture lasts 50 to 100 years or more. Oak antiques from the 17th and 18th centuries are still functional and beautiful today. Unlike modern disposable furniture, oak is designed to be repaired and refinished rather than replaced.