Furniture to last a lifetime – and beyond…
Why is reclaimed timber better?
Reclaimed timber is more stable than newly logged wood. Years of undergoing a standard level of dryness and humidity makes reclaimed timber stronger. It’s therefore less inclined to crack or warp – especially when used in extreme climates. Old timbers also inherit a warm and rich patina. By using reclaimed wood, you’re also contributing to nature by keeping the earth green. Gallery 278
Preservation
Whether furniture is made from rosewood, satinwood or teak, all types of wood have a visible grain – intrinsic to its beauty. To preserve old wood and highlight its natural grain, simply condition your furniture every three to six months with oil suitable for wood – available from any DIY store. This is the best way to allow your piece of heritage to shine! Adityaa Homes
Dehumidifiers and humidifiers are another great way to ensure the moisture levels in the air are kept at an optimum level. Oriental Handicraft
Maintaining teak
Oil or wax your furniture regularly, according to how your furniture has been finished. If it has been oiled, there are many teak oils available in DIY shops.
When using wax, always use a proper furniture wax. Beeswax is the best and it also helps protect against fungus. Apply with a soft cotton cloth.
Do not use aerosol sprays! These tend to build up layers which can become sticky and eventually erode the original finish.
Avoid putting hot or wet cups and plates directly onto wood as this can produce white ring marks. To fix, purchase a ring remover from a DIY shop. If the mark can not be completely removed the area may need to be lightly sanded with very fine sandpaper or steel wool. Then apply some wood stain, followed by either wax or oil.The Shophouse
Repairing scratches
Solid wood furniture is built to last a long time but it does require a regular care programme. Cleaning and maintenance with quality products helps protect the wood, preserving its natural patina and enhancing its beauty. If scratches or small nicks occur, try this simple fix:
Fill scratches in furniture with a shoe polish or beeswax-based wood polish that best matches the lightest shade of the furniture’s finish. A neutral shade of shoe polish is often your safest bet.
Before applying to the scratch, apply a test amount to an inconspicuous area of the furniture first to ensure the mix won’t damage the finish.
Rub the mixture into the scratch with your finger, in the direction of the wood’s grain. Ierus Living
Always keep solvents, alcohol, nail polish and polish remover away from wooden furniture. When dusting, always lift objects – never slide them across the surface of the wood. Wipe spills immediately. Art Trend Gallery
Wood infestation
Don’t let the bugs bite!
Infestation of your treasured pieces is always a possibility – especially in Asia. Even though reliable retailers fumigate their items prior to taking delivery this treatment doesn’t protect the pieces forever. It’s important to regularly check all your furniture for signs of infestation such as small piles of dust or tiny round “egg-like” mounds. If these are seen, call in a reliable pest control company to advise the best course of action. Don’t dust away the “evidence” before they arrive, as the dust will help them identify the culprit!
Even if a piece of affected furniture is fumigated the risk of re-infestation is always there. The pests responsible move around by air and can lay their eggs at random, even choosing the same piece of furniture twice! So check your furniture on a regular basis. The pests often do their work inside with minimal outside evidence so careful monitoring is a must. Galerie Cho Lon
