Avoid Ruining Your Antiques
No one ruins an antique on purpose but hundreds of pieces of antique furniture are irreparably harmed each day by their owners because they simply don’t know any better. All of this harm is done in the course of attempting to care for antiques. Improper care for an antique not only creates significant monetary damage but also creates damage to the historical perspective of the antique. Follow these tips to maintain the value of your antique.
1. Cleaning a technique with modern cleansers could assist in creating value, however, this is not the case with all antiques. For example, no one wants to buy a dusty couch but a weathered look on an old copper lamp may add value. Consult with an expert on that particular type of antique before you attempt to clean anything besides a daily dusting routine.
2. Adding to tip 1, never ever ever refinish any antique unless you have permission to do so from a qualified professional and a qualified professional is doing the job. Refinishing an old antique can strip away 90% of the value so don’t do it !!
3. Avoid placing an antique piece in front of direct sunlight, near an open window where it could be wet, near an air conditioner or adjacent to a heating device. Placing an antique in an undesirable place could ruin the material that it’s made of or destroy the finish. Textiles, paints, woods and early plastics are all susceptible to light and water damage.
4. Clean up spills and stains immediately. Avoid excessive rubbing and if it’s at all possible, clean by using a gentle patting technique and avoid back and forth and circular patterns.
5. This is a tip I heard years ago and it’s so well said that I could say it once again. Store your antiques where you would be comfortable. So, if it’s excessively damp in your basement or excessively hot in your attic, your antiques could be uncomfortable too.
