I inhereted a wood desk from my Great-grandfather, how do i restore or protect it from further damage?

Question

This desk is very old and the wood on top has started to chip off. I want to be able to either repair it or protect it from further damage. I can provide a picture if you think you can help. My e-mail is: [e-mail]

Answer 1

I worked at an antique store for years. I have to suggest that you take it to a professional restorer if you have the money and one available. It can be quite expensive for good restoration but it is definately worth it. You will be amazd what it will look like!

If you cant or dont want to take it to a restorer, try orange oil. Test a little bit on the leg of the desk near the bottom first. Put the orange oil on a soft cloth and wipe the wood with it in soft strokes. Let it set. Check 24 hours later to make sure that it is absorbed and there are no white spots. If there are white spots, then you need to remove the grime first. Get a good wood cleaner from a hardware store or even better, an antique store.

If there is no discoloration and the oil fully absorbs, then you can go ahead and rub down the desk. The orange oil should clean some of the dirt off of the desk, so you may have to change your rag as it appears dirty.

As for the wood that is chipping. There really isnt much you can do about the lost wood. A restorer can add in filler to make the desk look better, but this decreases the value some. I suggest putting a glass top on the desk to prevent the wood from chipping more and to protect it in general. You can get glass or plexi-glass ordered to size.

Remember, some restoration decreases value. It is best to have a professional examine the desk and appraise it before you do any restoration. Note: Orange oil cleaning will not decrease the value any, that is why I suggest it.

Answer 2

Though it would be more costly, I think you should consider taking it to a professional furniture restorer, especially one who specializes in antiques. Yes, you could do it yourself but, if you mess it up, there might be no going back.

I should add that I've had some woodwork repaired on occasion and they can do some amazing stuff.

Answer 3

First, please don't attempt to restore it. Something that is as old as that is more valuable left unrestored. If you are going to use it, be very careful with it. Try to found out who the manufacturer was. Some collectors could give you an idea. If you store it, make sure it can breathe and make sure mice don't get to it. Good luck, it might be worth alot of money.