|
Modern technology has improved furniture production, including
the tools and the methods used in furniture making. Fortunately, the natural
beauty of wood remains untouched by technology to this day. For hundreds
of years the pure beauty of wood furniture has made for treasured family
heirlooms.
Although wood is beautiful, it is far from perfect. Knots,
mineral deposits, worm holes, and unusual grain patterns are natural. Each
piece is as individual as a fingerprint and will take a stain slightly differently
- even two boards from the same tree. These characteristics are inherent
to wood and are not defects unless they interfere with the product's use.
Please remember that some manufacturers, striving to obtain
a particular “look,” incorporate wood's imperfections and other
slight irregularities into the finished product. This is especially true
of casual styles.
Solid wood expands and contracts due to changing levels
of humidity in the home. This can affect the amount of space between table
extension leaves and the table top - this is natural of solid wood.
Dust regularly with a clean, soft, damp
cloth. Avoid polishes containing petroleum products since they can damage
the finish. Even dust particles can be abrasive, so always dust with the
grain and not against it. All wood grains absorb stains differently. Inch
by inch there will always be varying degrees of light and dark tones. This
characteristic makes your piece beautifully unique.
Avoid placing furniture in direct sunlight which
can bleach the finish. Make sure heating and air conditioning vents are directed
away from furniture, as drastic temperatures may cause warping.
When placing lamps, beverages, hot objects, etc. on wood
surfaces be sure to use felt discs, placemats (without rubber backing),
or coasters.
Despite modern, water-resistant finishes, it's very
important that water not maintain contact with finishes or remain
in decorative router lines.
When storing table leaves, always
lay flat - standing on end can cause warpage.
Maintaining even humidity conditions is
beneficial to all wood furniture. Operating a humidifier in your home is
recommended.
Tilting back in chairs while
seated is dangerous and will loosen the joints. This practice should
be discouraged! Also avoid standing on chairs & hooking your heels
on the cross supports of the chair base. Remember, decorative wood spindles
are fragile and will break when subjected to undue stress.
Please note that oil based finishes require special
care. Refer to product specific brochures for details or contact
us.
|
