Reclaimed barnwood furniture may come from old barns but it has plenty of life left. It feels special because every mark shows off its history. The wood, of course, has distinct colors, ridges, and marks caused by exposure to the elements. While reclaimed barnwood furniture is durable and sturdy, it's very important to take good care of them. Here are a few tips for keeping your reclaimed barnwood furniture in great shape.
Caring for Your Reclaimed Barnwood Furniture
Avoid Direct Sunlight - Keep your reclaimed barnwood furniture away from direct sunlight to prevent discoloration and warping. Exposure can fade the warm tones of wood altering its appearance. If you must have the table in a sunlit area, use curtains inside to alleviate the impact. Outside furniture should be in a shaded area or under an umbrella. It's also important to avoid unstable temperatures and extreme changes to humidity.
Prevent Moisture and Heat Damage - Use coasters to prevent moisture rings on tables and clean up spills immediately. Be sure to clean the surface to ensure spills don't have a chance to harden, set, and stain. Keep hot items from coming in direct contact with the wood. Use hot pads and trivets when placing warm dishes and platters on these surfaces. This will lessen the chances of experiencing unsightly burn marks and discolorations on your reclaimed barnwood furniture.
Keep It Clean - Everyday cleaning can leave your reclaimed barnwood furniture looking fresh and can prevent the wood from dulling and scratching. Use a soft, lint-free cloth or old cotton t-shirt to clean surfaces. Use natural cleaners because chemicals can cause damage to the wood. Polishes can make them appear dirtier and collect dust.
Treating Common Spills and Stains - Avoiding spills and stains is nearly impossible, but there are ways to treat them. Watermarks can leave a discolored patch when moisture soaks into the wood. If you come across a stain, use a non-gel toothpaste on the stain. After wiping away the toothpaste, the stain should be no longer visible or very hard to see.
Refinish Your Barnwood - Reclaimed furniture doesn't always have a finish. After all, it has held up outside for years. But, on the other hand, finishing the wood has its advantages. The wood is protected and easier to clean. Finishes make the surface more durable to withstand everyday life. Keep in mind, many products may change the natural look of the wood. For example, varnishes and oils can darken or change the wood's color.
Contact us to add one of our stunning reclaimed barnwood furniture pieces to one of the important rooms in your home.