What is veneer commonly used for?

Veneer is commonly used to provide a decorative surface to inferior woods. This practice takes advantage of the aesthetic qualities of high-quality wood while minimizing costs. By applying a thin layer of attractive wood on top of a less expensive core, manufacturers can create products that look visually appealing without the need for solid wood throughout. This technique is widely used in furniture, cabinetry, and paneling, allowing for an aesthetically pleasing finish that enhances the overall look of a product while using materials that might not naturally possess the same desirability.

The other options involve processes or characteristics that do not accurately represent the primary use of veneer. Veneer is not primarily utilized to add strength, change wood color through heat, or laminate layers of wood together—the latter processes usually involve different materials and methods altogether.