Sheesham, diyar and kikar are the three woods most people in Pakistan ask about for beds, doors, dining tables and wardrobes. Each has its strengths. Here is how they compare, and when an engineered board such as MDF is the better choice.
Sheesham
Sheesham, also called shisham or Indian rosewood, is a dense, heavy hardwood with golden to deep brown colour and darker streaks. It is strong, takes polish beautifully and is the classic choice for beds, dining sets, chairs and carved furniture.
- Best for: beds, dining tables, chairs, classic furniture
- Watch out for: price and weight; it must be well seasoned or it can crack
Diyar
Diyar is deodar cedar from the northern mountains. It is lighter in colour and weight, with a straight grain and a pleasant smell. Its natural oils help it resist rot and insects, which is why it has long been used for doors, windows, frames and ceilings.
- Best for: doors, windows, frames, ceilings and paneling
- Watch out for: it is softer than sheesham, so table tops dent more easily
Kikar
Kikar is acacia, the babul tree common across Punjab. It is very hard and heavy, usually the most affordable of the three, and strong enough for frames and structural parts.
- Best for: frames, structure, budget doors and beds
- Watch out for: irregular grain that is harder to finish, and cracking or twisting if the wood is not properly dried
Quick comparison
| Sheesham | Diyar | Kikar | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hardness | Hard | Medium | Very hard |
| Looks | Rich brown, attractive grain | Light, straight grain | Reddish brown, irregular grain |
| Insects and rot | Good when seasoned | Very good | Fair |
| Typical cost | Higher | Higher | Lower |
| Best use | Beds, dining, chairs | Doors, windows, frames | Frames, structure |
Always ask about seasoning
Whatever the wood, it must be properly dried before it is made into furniture. Fresh wood shrinks, cracks and twists as it dries in your home. Ask your maker how the wood was seasoned.
When MDF is the better choice
For wardrobes, kitchens, office tables and anything with a high-gloss, marble or plain colour finish, MDF with a laminate or sheet finish is usually better. It stays flat, gives a perfect surface and costs less. Many pieces combine both: MDF panels with solid wood edges and frames. Read our MDF vs particle board vs solid wood guide.
Planning a bed, almari or door? See our home furniture or design it in 3D.