Resurrection Woodworking
The effects of Heat and Humidity on Hardwoods...
Did you know that up to half the weight of freshly sawn wood is water? Furniture is crafted from wood that is carefully dried, retaining just enough moisture for the furniture to properly acclimate to the relative humidity in your home. The wood in furniture continues to exchange moisture with the air, shrinking and expanding in response to changes in relative humidity. Like your own skin, solid hardwood furniture's natural response to extremely dry air is to lose moisture and shrink a bit.
The halves of an extension table may part slightly or a few tiny openings may appear on a solid wood surface. This will correct itself as the relative humidity rises, and the wood absorbs enough moisture to expand slightly. On the other hand, if you don't have an air conditioner or dehumidifier, your home's relative humidity may get too high. Parts of your wood furniture may absorb excess moisture from the air and expand, perhaps causing drawers to stick. Once again, this will correct itself as your home's relative humidity decreases. The furniture's quality and sturdiness are not affected by these natural changes.
Stain Removal Tips
Today's high-performance finishes demand special and careful attention when it comes to stain removal. While there are countless remedies for stains, some may damage the furniture's finish. If you're at all unsure, give us a call and we'll be happy discuss your latest furniture mishap.
Otherwise, these common stains often can be treated with do-it-yourself furniture first aid. But bear in mind; always test your remedy on a small area to see if it removes the stain without disturbing or damaging the finish.
Watermarks & Rings
Often, rings are in the wax, not the finish. Cover the stain with a clean, thick cloth, press down with a warm (not hot) iron, and repeat. Or rub with salad oil, mayonnaise or white toothpaste. Wipe the surface clean, then let it dry for 30 to 60 minutes, then wax or polish.
Light Cigarette Burns
Rub with scratch-concealing polish, or with a paste of linseed oil and rottenstone, working with the grain until the burn mark disappears.
Nail Polish
Blot the spill immediately, then rub with extra-fine steel wool dipped in wax. Wipe dry and wax or polish.
Candle Wax or Gum
Harden the substance by holding an ice cube wrapped in cloth against it, then use your fingernail or plastic credit card to remove it. Rub the area with extra-fine (0000) steel wool