Wood Furniture Treatment

Wood furniture should be treated to prolong its life.

Treating wood furniture will preserve the surface and finish for many years. Outside furniture will last longer if properly treated, and indoor furniture will be protected from spills, food and pets. Treating wood furniture also enhances its beauty. There are a variety of methods used to keep wood furniture in top condition. Antique furniture may need to be specially treated. Wax can be used to preserve and treat the finish on some antique wood.

History

There are various methods for treating wood furniture. Before the invention of chemical wood cleaners and conditioners, people used natural oils, such as lemon oil, to clean and condition wood.

Significance

Natural lemon oil is a safe alternative to harsh chemicals that can damage porous wood, such as pine. Wood furniture may benefit from a light sanding as well, especially in the case of delicate or antique furniture that is being restored. Use 150- to 220-grit sandpaper to help restore these types of wood pieces. After the wood furniture is sanded, it can be treated with wood stain or paint, then varnished.

Function

Furniture stain treats wood by enhancing the natural color. Stain is absorbed into the grain of the wood and conditions the wood along with tinting it slightly. Applying a second coat of stain may darken the wood; one coat of a dark-color stain can alter the appearance of light wood. To seal in the stain, a glossy varnish is applied after the stain has dried.

Types

A water- and insect-proof varnish for furniture is ideal for maintaining a newly treated piece of wood furniture. A veneer table can easily be treated by gluing any lifted veneer back into place using wood glue. Wood sealant also works well to fill in any scratch marks or gouges in the veneer. However, the entire veneer surface may need to be replaced if the veneer on a wood table is severely damaged.

Benefits

Paints help to seal in wood after it is refinished or old veneer has been replaced. Priming the wood before applying a latex enamel paint coats the surface of the wood or veneer, making the paint look smooth and even.

Considerations

Cleaning wood is an easy way to treat it. By cleaning the wood, surface grime and dirt and the insects or bacteria within the dirt will not eat away at the surface and weaken the wood. This is especially true for outdoor furniture that is not protected with water and insect-proof varnish.

References

• The Henry Ford: Furniture and Wooden Objects