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Lucille's
Appraisals
"Information about finishes is
riddled with myths and, half-truths. This situation creates countless problems
because it diverts from the information you need to understand finishing.
Some of the myths imply that the old finishes, and old ways of
applying finishes, are somehow better then what we have and
what we do today.
Other myths suggest that finishes are sort
of mystery, consisting of secret formulations that are held
in confidence by those who, somehow, already know them."
Bob Flexner,
Author,
Understanding Wood
Finishes
As I continue spending time with
clients and customers, I find Bob to be precise in the above quote. We will
remove the mystery. This FAQ section intends to give some additional
understanding of the process. If you have other questions, contact
Gerry Thurston
Glossary
of antique furniture terms.
Ten most frequently ask Questions.
1)Q How do I know what
finish to use on a good piece of furniture or valuable antiques?
A Appearance, Protection,
Durability, and Reversibility are the most important aspects. The number one
cause of antique value degradation is incorrect restoration. Experience being
the best teacher, it's recommended that you proceed with caution and consult
with a professional furniture finisher/refinisher.
2) Q Why are there so many
different types of finishes for furniture?
3) Q When refinishing a
piece of furniture, do I always need to remove the finish ?
A No, As a matter of fact,
when possible, it is better to restore and preserve the original finish.
Especially with antiques. Rejuvenating and maintaining "patina"
is essential for antiques to appreciate in value.
4)Q When is it necessary
to completely strip and refinish a piece ?
A Complete stripping,
toning and new finish can be performed at any stage in the life of a piece.
Choosing to do this is your option. Refinishing becomes necessary when wood is
exposed directly
to the atmosphere.
Adding finish to the piece will preserve it but if the appearance is not correct
then consider complete refinishing.
5)Q What is the difference
in cost for complete refinish vs. rejuvenation of the existing finish?
A In general, the cost is
about one half. Keep in mind, all work is based on time and the required
material.
6)Q Can I have a piece
stripped and then refinish it myself ?
A Yes, with the new
finishes available, in many cases we recommend that you let us strip and
condition the piece ready for you to finish.
7) Q Should I try to strip
a piece myself ?
A You can, but let me
qualify this statement. Not only is this step of refinishing the least
interesting, it is messy as well as a health hazard. It is not cost effective
unless you are doing many items at the same time. Most refinishers hand strip
but now use a special table and recycle the stripping material. This method is
fast, efficient and safe. We pass the savings along to you.
8) Q Why is the price
estimate for refinishing sometimes more than what it costs to replace it?
A It is important to
understand that the restoration process is far from just repair and refinishing
of old furniture. Look closely at the item and determine if you should invest in
the restoring process. Our mission is quite simple. With research, we help
clients determine the importance of preserving an heirloom /antique. In addition
to the beautification of your surroundings, it is important to preserve the
legacy that you pass along to your heirs and future generations.
9) Q Does the finish you
use permit the wood to breathe?
A Probably the biggest
misconception regarding just about all finishes is that wood somehow needs to
breathe. Nothing could be further from the truth. If any wood is permitted to
"breathe" this adds to deterioration over time. We take extra precautions to
make sure that wood is sealed completely. Kiln dry wood, used in all furniture,
contains a small amount of moisture. If that moisture continues to dry out you,
will start to see cracks and splits. Wood must be totally sealed. Properly
finished and maintained furniture will not have this problem.
