What are the advantages of having a diningroom table made out of Alder wood versus Pine wood?

Question

I'm trying to decide whether spending a little more to have a diningroom table made out of alder instead of pine is worth it. I've already decided on this particular ranch style table, it's just a matter of whether I have it made out of pine or alder. And I was wondering if anyone would be kind enough to enlighten me with the advantages of having it made out of alder instead of pine? The table will be either solid pine or solid alder, and quite hefty since it's a ranch style table. Thank you.

Answer 1

Pine is a little softer wood so it will nick and scratch easier that alder. Also the harder the wood the easier it is (usually) to dust and polish it. If you have kids or pets that might be hard on the table it would be worth it to get the harder wood. If you're 88 and very proper with your furnishings the pine would probably hold up fine.