How to Restore a Potbellied Stove
Although their bulbous shapes elicit amorous chortles from some, potbellied stoves earned their place in history with distinction. During America's early past, potbellied stoves were commonly used to heat public spaces such as schoolhouses, workshops, offices, saloons and train stations. An antiques enthusiast who has recently acquired an old, but slightly neglected, cast-iron potbellied stove can maintain a piece of history by restoring the stove's appearance as well as its functionality. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Shop vacuum
- Wrench
- Screwdriver
- Wire brush
- White vinegar
- Gel rust removers (optional)
- Sponge
- Dish soap
- Hammer
- Chisel
- Stove cement
- Trowel or putty knife
- Stove polish
- Rag
Instructions
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1
Vacuum the interior and exterior of the potbellied stove, using a shop vacuum, to remove any loose debris.
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2
Separate any parts that are removable, such as the stove door or the vent covers, with a wrench or a screwdriver.
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3
Remove rust by scrubbing rusty spots with a wire brush and white vinegar. Eco-friendly gel rust removers are also available for rust that is harder to remove.
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4
Wipe down the potbellied stove, inside and out, using a sponge and a solution of hot water and dish soap. Afterward, wipe down the stove with fresh water to remove residue, then leave the stove to dry.
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5
Chip and abrade away any stove cement from stove joints or seams with a hammer and chisel, and the wire brush. Dampen the joints or seams and apply new stove cement, using a trowel or putty knife.
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6
Massage all surfaces of the stove with stove polish, using a clean rag.
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7
Reassemble the stove parts.
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8
Burn an inaugural fire in the stove after it is installed to heat-cure the stove cement and to "burn off" the stove polish. Open all windows and doors to allow the smoke to escape. Start a small fire and gradually build it to high temperatures. Keep the fire burning until the smoke disappears.
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Tips & Warnings
Heavily damaged stoves may require additional precautions. Tap any spots in the walls of the stoves that look weak, using a hammer or screwdriver. Heavily rusted stoves can be sandblasted or stripped by a professional. Before restoring, stoves can also be tested by placing them outside, starting a fire inside, and looking for any smoke leaks.
References
- Photo Credit Comstock Images/Comstock/Getty Images
