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The methods for taking care of antique furniture have changed over the years. As items age, special consideration must be taken, and they cannot be treated in the same way as modern home furnishings.

The Effect of Heat and Sunlight on Antiques

Where antique items are placed in the home is very important because too much light is damaging to antique furniture. Sunlight can degrade finishes, veneers, wood and fabrics. Antique furniture should be placed out of direct sunlight, and curtains or shades should be used to diffuse or block sunlight on particularly sunny days. Also, where possible, turn pieces of furniture around occasionally to even the fading process.

Avoid placing antique furniture in front of heating and air conditioning vents, radiators, fireplaces or stoves. The heat can cause drying out and shrinking that can loosen glue joints, veneers, inlays and marquetry. Any of these things can significantly decrease the value of the piece.

Moisture and Humidity in the Air

Antique furniture is greatly affected by the amount of moisture in the air. Changes in relative humidity can cause wood to expand and contract, damaging wood and veneers. This expansion and contraction can cause glue joints to loosen, and drawers and doors to become stuck in their openings.

Long periods of high humidity can lead to the growth of mold, rot and even possibly insect infestation. If the climate is humid, the use of a dehumidifier is recommended. Similarly, if it’s too dry, consider using a humidifier. Either way, maintaining relative humidity will minimize any adverse effects that can be caused by too much or too little moisture in the air.

Cleaning and Polishing Antique Furniture

Many people believe that wood needs to be treated with oil to keep it from drying out, but this is really a myth. Furniture oils will temporarily enhance the appearance, but will eventually contribute to the degradation

of the finish over time as oils leave a residue that can attract dirt and dust build up.

Do not use a spray polish on antique furniture. These polishes often contain silicone, which can penetrate the finish and will cause problems with future restoration or repairs. They also leave a film behind, and they can cause scratches.

The best way to maintain a finish is with a coat of high-quality antique furniture wax. Furniture wax is long lasting and made specifically for antique woods. A thin coat of wax applied (be sure to follow the manufacturers instructions) once or twice a year will help protect the finish. Let it dry overnight and then buff with a soft cloth. Ask a local antique dealer for their recommended brand.

In between waxing, dust with a soft, lint free cloth on a regular basis. Dampen the cloth slightly (but only slightly), as a dry rag can cause scratches when dusting.

Note: Wax may not be suitable for surfaces with a deteriorating finish. When in doubt, consult a furniture restoration specialist in your area for advice.

Handling and Moving Antique Furniture

When moving antique furniture it's best to first remove shelves, doors and drawers. It will lighten the load and reduce the risk of damage. Protect glass doors with moving blankets or other padding. Here are a few other tips:

• Large pieces of furniture should always be lifted and never dragged across the floor. Dragging can cause the loosening of joints.


• Chairs should always be carried by the seat rails as opposed to the back splat, top rail or arms.


• Tables should be carried by the apron or legs. Never carry tables by the top as it can pull loose from the base.


• Marble tops should be removed and transported vertically. A marble top transported laying flat can crack easily. The piece will be destroyed and the mover can get hurt.


• Mirrors and glass should also be transported and stored vertically for safety’s sake.

Refinishing Antique Pieces

There are a couple of schools of thought when it comes to refinishing antique pieces. Stripping and refinishing removes the original coating and damages the patina as well. Once removed, it can never be recovered. Patterns of wear indicating the history of use are also lost during the refinishing process. Some people think that this should be avoided at all costs.

On the other hand once a piece is damaged or scratched some of the value is lost, therefore refinishing the piece will help to restore it and bring back some of it’s former glory.

When considering antique furniture restoration, the best thing to do is consult an antique or restoration expert and get their professional opinion.

Beautiful Indonesian teak furniture + Quality Teak Dining Room Furniture

May 10, 2010

Looking for Indonesian teak furniture is quite exciting. Whether it is for indoors or outdoors, it is durable and long lasting. Teak furniture does not splinter and does not rot. That makes it perfect for outdoors. Add a little beauty in the garden with a teak bench. Put a teak table and chairs on the patio for pleasurable outdoor dining. You can even find wonderful pieces for your indoor living. Desks and tables, occasional tables and bars. So many exciting pieces of teak furniture to choose from. Many pieces are available in Indonesian teak furniture. Chaise loungers, bars, Adirondack chairs, table and chair sets, and benches. Depending on the style you are looking for, the prices vary just as much. You can also purchase matching cushions to add to the comfort and beauty of your teak furniture. Indonesian teak furniture turns a beautiful silvery gray patina over time. You can always add a little teak oil to it and bring back the honey glow that was once on it. In Indonesia the people make the furniture by hand. It is quite an art and has become a tourist attraction even . Crowds stop to watch the furniture makers at work. Detail is crafted into this beautiful furniture that will last for years to come. Hardy and long lasting, teak wood is the perfect wood for patio or outdoor use. Shopping for Indonesian teak furniture is fun. You can find it at many pool and garden shops. Fine furniture stores also carry a wide variety of teak furniture. Shop online and compare prices. Don’t forget to ask about shipping and handling. Many items can be found on sale during the summer clearance time at the end of summer. Also, Memorial Day sales and Fourth of July sales are great times to keep an eye out. Teak furniture cost more, but it lasts forever which makes it very economical. You will be the envy of all your friends with Indonesian teak furniture. Its natural beauty and quality of style will have your friends asking for your help decorating their own homes. So enjoy your furniture for years to come. Are you searching for a teak dining room furniture set? Not sure where to start? First you need to decide what style you might like. There are many styles to choose from. From antique to contemporary, the choice is yours. Teak dining furniture is available in many styles and sizes.

Do you have a large family? Maybe you need a teak dining furniture set that will seat 6 or 8. They can be found. Smaller ones are more readily available. If you are looking for something that you can use on the patio, teak is the perfect wood for this. Teak dining room furniture is great for outdoors . Or maybe you want to bring the outdoors inside. Teak wood is a sturdy hardwood that does not splinter. It withstands water, does not rot and lasts a long long time. Let me tell you where your teak dining room furniture comes from. Southeast Asia is the most common place for finding teak. It is harvested on teak farms and it takes 50 years to complete the cycle. The people of Indonesia craft this wood and it has even become a tourist attraction in the city. Watching them hard at work is a must see. Teak wood turns a silvery gray patina over time. The weather does not harm the wood only gives it a personality. You can use a little teak oil to restore the honey glow to the wood. You can find teak dining room furniture in many fine furniture stores. The styles and prices will vary. Check online and compare prices before you shop. Research the company and the customer service policy. Also, read the feedback that other customers have left for you. You can also purchase teak online. The shipping and handling fees vary so be sure to ask. You will be glad you purchased teak dining room furniture when you have your first dinner party and your friends and family will rave over your taste and selection in fine furniture. You will be the envy of the neighborhood. Teak wood lasts a lifetime so that makes it such an economic purchase in the long run.