Why is the choice of hardwood for dowels significant?

The significance of choosing hardwood for dowels primarily lies in its strength and durability. Hardwood, such as oak or maple, has a dense grain structure that provides robust support and structural integrity when used in construction or furniture assembly. This durability ensures that the dowels can withstand stress and maintain their functionality over time, which is essential for the longevity of the finished product. Furthermore, hardwood dowels are less likely to split or break under pressure compared to softwoods, making them a more reliable choice for projects requiring sturdy joints.

While factors like cost, workability, and appearance may be relevant in certain contexts, they do not match the importance of strength and durability that hardwood provides when used as dowels. This makes hardwood a preferred material for applications where performance and reliability are critical.