Considerations When Storing Hardwood Furniture
When opting for long-term storage solutions for your hardwood furniture, it is not simply about finding a storage unit for it and leaving it there until the next time you need it. Maintenance measures must be taken to ensure that the quality of your hardwood furniture is not compromised while it has been put away. This is because wood furniture has a higher propensity to succumbing to mould, cracking and scratches if not stored appropriately. Here are some of the considerations you should have when putting your hardwood furniture into storage.
Consider treating the wood before storing it
Wood treatments can be beneficial for a number of reasons. When you treat your hardwood furniture, it makes it less susceptible to pests. This will decrease the chances of finding your furniture riddled with holes once you take it out of storage. Treating your furniture also prevents it from developing cracks. Applying furniture polish to the wood and sealing it will ensure that it retains its moisture, which will go a long way in keeping it in good condition.
Consider climate control in the storage space
If your hardwood furniture is constantly exposed to erratic temperature changes, it will keep expanding and contracting. Over time, this begins to affect the structural integrity of the wood, hence making your furniture pieces weaker than they are. If possible, you should always consider opting for a storage unit that has a climate control feature. This will ensure that your wood is stored at an appropriate temperature during the entire period you have put your furniture away.
If you are not hiring a self-storage unit and instead are putting your furniture away either in your attic or in your basement, you should consider investing in a dehumidifier. Although not as effective as a climate controlled unit, the dehumidifier can still reduce the amount of moisture in the air. This will prevent your hardwood furniture from absorbing the moisture and expanding while in storage. It also will decrease the chances of mould and mildew breeding in that environment.
Consider covering your furniture
Most homeowners will know to cover their furniture when they put it in storage. The mistake they make though is covering it plastic. Since plastic is not breathable, it ends up creating condensation o your furniture and this will eventually lead to the swelling of your hardwood furniture Rather than plastic, opt to cover your furniture with cloth materials such as moving blankets or furniture pads as these will prevent any moisture from penetrating into your furniture.
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