How To Make Your Wood Furniture Last Longer
If you’ve had certain wood furniture pieces for a long time in your home, they can start to look a bit outdated and old. However, there are actually many ways in which you can make your wood furniture last that extra bit longer. From a fresh coat of paint to using protective varnishes, here are just some ways that you can make the wood furniture in your home look like new and last for much longer.
Consider refreshing the paint job
As wood furniture is used, it is subjected to wear and tear, which can cause its surface to look dull or scratched over time. By repainting your furniture, you can protect the surface from further damage and restore the furniture to its original appearance. Using spray paint at home makes it easy for those with little to no experience with painting, and it can produce a smooth, even finish. The key is to ensure that the furniture is properly prepared beforehand. This includes cleaning the surface, lightly sanding if necessary, and applying a primer to ensure the spray paint adheres.
Use protective varnish on surfaces
Using a protective varnish or sealant on your wood furniture can help to make it last longer. This will protect the wood from scratches, fading, and other damage. These materials provide a protective barrier that prevents moisture, dirt, and other substances from entering the wood. This helps to reduce the risk of warping, cracking, and other damage that can occur over time. It also helps to keep the wood looking new and vibrant, which can help to increase its value and longevity. Applying the varnish or wax is relatively easy and can be done with a brush, cloth, or even from a spray can. Allow it to dry completely before buffing it to a shine. This process should be repeated every few months to ensure that the wood stays well protected.
Make sure that you proper store your wood furniture
Properly storing wood furniture is key to making sure it stays looking great and lasts for years to come. To ensure your DIY furniture project remains in great condition, it is important to keep it away from moisture, excessive heat, and direct sunlight. Moisture can cause wood to warp and rot, while excessive heat can cause paint to fade and peel. Direct sunlight can cause fabrics to fade and discolor. Therefore, it is best to keep furniture in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, if possible. Additionally, make sure to cover wood furniture when not in use to protect it from dust and dirt. Taking these simple steps will help to ensure your upcycled projects remain in great condition for many years to come.
Properly check & maintain your furniture on a regular basis
Regularly inspecting and tightening screws and bolts is an important maintenance task that should not be overlooked. Over time, screws and bolts can become loose due to normal wear and tear, or vibration, which can cause damage to your furniture. By inspecting and tightening screws and bolts regularly, you can prevent expensive repairs and replacements, as well as ensure that your system is safe and secure. Before tightening any screws or bolts, it is important to inspect the area for any signs of damage or wear, such as rust, corrosion, or loose threads. If any damage is found, the screw or bolt should be replaced. Additionally, the correct size and type of screw or bolt should be used, as using the wrong type can cause problems. Finally, when tightening screws and bolts, use a torque wrench to get the best results, as it will ensure that the screw or bolt is tightened to the right level without being over-tightened and causing further damage. Regularly inspecting and tightening screws and bolts is an important maintenance task that should not be overlooked.
Take your time when doing your own furniture DIY
When it comes to maintaining, painting, or fixing your wood furniture, taking your time on the piece will help it to last longer. Doing a rushed job can lead to furniture that is not properly sealed, painted, or varnished, and can cause damage to the piece in the long run. Taking your time to properly sand, seal and paint the piece will help it to stay in good condition for many years to come. When sanding the piece, it is important to take your time to ensure that all scratches and imperfections are smoothed out. This will help the paint to stick better and will help the piece look more polished.
