Fine furniture is a significant investment that should provide a lifetime of use and enjoyment. Wood is vulnerable to temperature changes, light and moisture. The humid weather condition in Singapore makes it even more vital that the extensive wooden furniture in your home is pampered adequately from time to time.
Here are some simple things you can do to protect your fine furniture during everyday use. Following some of these tips can extend the lifespan of the furnish and the furniture itself:
- Keep furniture away from sunlight – avoid placing in front of a window. Clear finishes can fade and deteriorate.
- Avoid placing your furniture near hot air vents or air conditioners. Rapid or extreme fluctuation in temperature or humidity may cause cracking, splitting and warping of your wooden furniture.
- Do not place hot objects directly onto the surface of furniture. It will leave an irreparable mark. Use a drink coaster or table pad.
- Blot up spills immediately. Especially if the furniture has only a thin layer of lacquer, it will leave a stain once liquid seeps in.
- Use a humidifier or put a glass of water inside the furniture to help maintain the relative humidity. Changes in relative humidity can cause wood to expand and contract. This expansion and contraction can cause glue joints to loosen, drawers and doors to drag or become stuck in their opening. Extended periods of high humidity can lead to mould growth, rotting and insect infestation.
- Avoid contact with solvent-based products such as fingernail polish or removers. Protect your dressing table with a piece of glass top.
- Do not wax furniture too often. Due to the humid weather in Singapore, wax takes about 6 months to dry up completely. If a new layer of wax is applied before the old layer is dried, dust will collect.
- Never place burning candles on a finished wood surface. As the candle burns down and the wax melts, it generates and transfer heat, hence damaging the finish and wooden surface. Be sure to place a candle stand or tray underneath the candle.
- Place a small glass of water inside your display cabinet when you turn your spot light on. Heat generated from the spot light will cause the cabinet to crack.
The proper care and treatment of your furniture will help to maintain its original beauty and finish. If you are unable to perform the regular maintenance, consult a professional refinisher for assistance. This might appear as a costly venture, but the number of years it extends the life of your furniture will ultimately make it a profitable option. Just like you need a proper vacation once in a while, so does your furniture!
If you have any tips which you wish to share, please email us!
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