Protect Your Investment And Your Pride - Tips For Restoring Wooden Furniture

For most people, purchasing large pieces of furniture is done with the intention that the furniture will last forever. Wooden furniture especially has an air of permanence about it; when a large table, bed, armoire or similar piece enters a home, its owner tends to assume that that will be the last piece of that type he or she will ever need to purchase.

The reality of furniture ownership, however, is that pieces will need restoration. Natural wear and tear will leave its mark on your wood furniture, and you should be prepared to combat those effects. Below, you'll find a guide to some tips for restoring your wooden furniture and allowing you to enjoy it as it was intended.

Thorough Cleaning

It is often said that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and that is especially true in the case of furniture restoration. If your furniture is left to sit under a layer of dust or is otherwise subjected to a very dirty environment, the microscopic damage that is done can have a serious impact on your ability to restore a piece.

Be sure to dust your wooden furniture regularly and thoroughly clean any spots of stubborn dirt with gentle soap and warm water. You should consult your manufacturer to learn which cleaning compounds will safely interact with your wood's varnish, as using the wrong products can cause a breakdown of the protective finish.

Reamalgamation

If your furniture is frequently subjected to extremes in light or temperature, its finish can start to suffer. If you notice cracks, separation, or flaking occurring in wood sealants, it's possible that the original finish on your furniture is starting to break down. If that occurs, it should be addressed immediately.

In some cases, you may be able to locate the original finish that was used on the wood and apply it in patches. In other instances, when the original isn't available, you will need to gently sand down your furniture and clean it thoroughly before applying a new coating to guarantee protection.

Camouflaging

In the most extreme circumstances, damage to your wood furniture may be irreparable. Deep gouges, large scratches, burns, and other serious marks may damage the look of your furniture and leave you searching desperately for solutions. In these cases, throws, blankets, or other covers may be a tasteful way to disguise flaws. These additions can add a degree of comfort and homeliness to your belongings while also protecting them from further damage and blending their look seamlessly into your home.

For more information about restoration, contact Steamatic of South Jersey or a similar company.