CARING FOR YOUR FURNITURE

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITONS

Exposure to poor environmental conditions is a major cause of damage. Energy from light may damage furniture surfaces causing discoloration. Light damage occurs over time and is irreversible. The extent of damage is proportionate to the intensity and length of exposure.

The number one enemy of wood furniture is changes in humidity. Long after the tree is cut, wood continues to absorb and exude moisture as humidity rises and falls. Moisture causes the wood to expand and contract unequally along grain directions. Long-term exposure to humidity above 60% will cause wood to swell resulting in furniture components distorting from internal stresses. Likewise, long-term exposure to humidity below 20% will cause wood components to warp and split. Pressure from the wood constantly changing may cause furniture parts to no longer fit closely together. Because the wood is changing constantly, damages may occur to the finish. Some finishes are not as flexible and may become brittle with the occurrence of many humidity changes.

USE AND CARE

Care should always be taken when cleaning and using your furniture. We recommended that our furniture be cleaned with a damp, clean dust cloth. Any kind of surface or finish may be cleaned using this method. A mild detergent may be applied, if necessary, for areas that will not clean with just a cloth. Avoid the use of oil-based and direct-spray polishes as these may cause a waxy build-up.

Finish damage is a very common problem. Placing hot items, such as coffee mugs or dinner plates on a piece of furniture can soften the finish. Condensation from cold objects or liquid spills may cause the finish to "bubble" and leave a discoloration. The damage described above can be eliminated by using coasters.

Always use a protective pad beneath lamps or accessories, and on writing surfaces. Do not place rubber or vinyl products on the surface as discoloration and/or staining may occur.

Select furniture pieces are equipped with casters for convenient mobility. Never roll furniture with casters on unprotected hardwood or vinyl flooring.

HANDLING

Moving furniture can be harmful to its construction if not done properly. The following is a list of guidelines to follow when rearranging or moving your furniture.

  • Remove all contents stored in the piece of furniture such as TVs, dishes, audio equipment, etc. Contents increase the weight of the furniture and may cause scratches and dents on the surface as they shift.

  • Inspect the piece of furniture to assess where the strongest points exist and support it in these areas when moving the furniture. Avoid lifting tables by the tops or legs, as this may cause the components to separate.

  • Make sure the path is clear to avoid gouges, scratches and dents.

  • It is best to wrap the piece of furniture in a soft blanket to avoid possible damage. If you are storing the furniture, wrap it in soft padding and make sure environmental conditions are optimum.

  • Never slide your furniture along the floor to avoid breaking joints, chipping molding and breaking legs. Exercising care will help you avoid damage to your furniture and your floors.