Frequently Asked Questions

Is it Okay to Refinish Antiques? Will it Ruin the Value?

The only trade magazine for professional restorers/refinishers was "Finishing & Restoration"(*). Before it went out of publication, the magazine was host to a multi-issue debate regarding the wisdom of refinishing and/or restoring antique and older furniture. A number of professional refinishers and conservators shared their diverse points of view which covered the full spectrum from "refinish everything" to "refinish nothing."

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"Well-conceived and well-executed refinishing and restoration usually enhances the value of just about any piece of old furniture."

So that answers the question of whether it's okay to refinish antiques. But refinishing isn't always the best solution to make an older or antique piece of furniture look nice. The right solution depends on the condition of the finish along with what you would like it to look like and how you will use it. The next step is to identify and assess any damage to the piece and make a plan to remedy any problems. To get started, click on the "Repair vs. Refinish" link at the top left of this page.

(*) - formerly "Professional Refinishing"

My chair is wobbly. Is it best to use metal corner braces and other metal hardware to make sure it is really strong?

Answer: Contrary to what you might believe, metal connectors and fasteners are not the best answer for holding two pieces of wood together. Metal fasteners such as screws will hold a piece together tightly for only a short time. As you use the chair the joints are flexing under the weight. The screws are much harder than the wood. As the joints flex the wood moves but the metal doesn't. Over time the screw will become loose from grinding and pressing against the wood, causing the screw holes to enlarge and ultimately the screw will fall out.

The best way to hold two pieces of wood together is a tight fitting, well glued, joint. Many people have a poor image of repairs done with glue. This is because it is essential that:

1. The proper type of glue is used for the material being joined.
2. A tight well fitting joint is accomplished. Wood glues will not have any strength across an open joint.

Quality wood joinery is the hallmark of superior furniture.

What kind of polish should I use on my furniture?

Answer: There are two main type of furniture care products available, oils and waxes, both have their uses. The #1 best method for preserving a fine finish is simply to keep the piece clean and dry. Today's finishes provide all the protection the wood will ever need. No additional waxes or oils are really necessary.

Exceptions:

1. In a heavily used family room where drinking glasses might be left on tables, I recommend a good paste wax for the tops. This will give an extra barrier of protection from water damage. Oil is not recommended for these pieces because you will be constantly fighting finger prints, smudges and dust stuck to the greasy surface.
2. Oil might be the answer on an antique dresser, where the finish is cracked and checked. The oil will help slow the drying out of the finish any further. If the piece is heavily used, then I would recommend wax instead.

Avoid polishes containing silicone. Silicone makes the wax much easier to apply and gives a pleasing shiny surface. When it comes time to refinish however silicone can be extremely detrimental to the final out come. Silicone can cause a condition in the new finish called fisheyes. This is the separation of the finish around the grain. A pock marked and uneven finish is the result.

How do I remove the white vacuum marks along the bottoms of my wood furniture?

Answer: Rub lightly in the same direction as the grain with a scotchbrite pad (the same type you use to scrub your dishes). Then rub with a soft cloth.

How do I remove a white ring or spot on my table top?

Answer: A white ring is moisture captured in the top layers of wax. Believe it or not, sometimes coating the surface with mayonnaise and allowing to set for a few minutes will release this moisture and the finish will become clear again. If this doesn't work it might be time to call a professional. Furniture Rescue can send someone to your home to assess the situation.

How do I remove a black ring?

Answer: Black rings are usually bad news. Black rings are in the wood and refinishing is most likely required.

If you have a question about furniture repair and care that wasn't answered above, please fill out the form below and submit your question.

Where can I find replacement hardware for my Furniture?

Reproduction hardware can be hard to find. Go to our links page to find some great sources for hardware for furniture new and old.

I found a broken bolt under my recliner and now it doesn't work. Can this be fixed?

Answer: Yes, in most case it can be returned to like new working order. See our Recliner Page for instructions on what to do with a broken recliner.