When we first opened the box, I was a little worried - there were what appeared to be nicks all over the table top. They were uniform so it seemed like they were supposed to be there, but I wasn't in love with the idea. That is until the entire table was put together (which was extremely easy - took about a 15 min joint effort by my husband and I, all with 2 year old twin boys running around us!)...it goes perfect with our warm rustic living room and everyone that comes over gushes over it :)