How to Restore Old Wooden Furniture

Common Furniture Issues and How to Fix Them

Old wood poses a wide range of hazards, whether you continue using it or dispose of it in a landfill. With this in mind, reusing these pieces is not only a sustainable approach but also preserves the environment and keeps your family safe.

Structural Repair

Visible damage on the surfaces of your furniture pieces is often a sign of age, prompting immediate attention before minor issues escalate into major problems and costly replacements. The handyman will carefully take the furniture apart using specialized tools to separate glued joints. Once each part is carefully disassembled, they will clean off the old glue, apply new wood glue, and use clamps to hold the pieces together until the glue dries. If you are dealing with broken furniture, then the carpentry service will cut and shape new parts to ensure they match the original shape and size.

Surface Repair

While surface damage is often considered a cosmetic problem, ignoring old wooden pieces can exacerbate underlying issues. With this in mind, hiring a professional handyman to address surface issues is crucial. When dealing with minor damage like small cracks and holes, the technician may use putty sticks or a wood filler to seal them before they worsen. After the repairs dry, the affected area is sanded smooth using fine-grit sandpaper for an even finish.

Refinishing

Refinishing old wooden furniture involves restoring the aesthetics and the overall feel of your pieces. The handyman will strip the original varnish, paint, or wax using the appropriate chemical strippers, a wire brush, or steel wool. After successfully removing the old finish, the next step involves sanding the wooden piece to create a clean and uniform surface. This is a crucial process before applying the new finish or paint, as it ensures that the final protective coat properly seals the wood and protects it from moisture and damage.