Wood is one of the most versatile materials in the world, with applications ranging from indoor and outdoor home applications to industrial use. Used indoors, wood offers a classy and warm touch to home decor and is an affordable option for outdoor use. Wood requires some care for preservation and longevity. How you care for wood depends on its type, where it is used, how it has been treated and various other factors.
Caring for Wooden Fences
When used for fencing, wood is threatened by weather elements and pests. It can also lose colour, which leads to it losing the lustre that makes it a good choice for such uses. Caring for wood used in outdoor applications requires sealing and painting it before installation as well as treating it to protect against pets.
It will require cleaning every three to five years to remove moss, greying, mildew and dirt. It should then be recoated using a water-repellent and UV-inhibiting coating.
Cleaning Painted Wood
Wood can be painted for interior decor and similar uses, and it is easiest to clean and care for in this state. It requires dusting using a vacuum cleaner which helps avoid scratching. You can also use a soft cloth or sponge to get rid of smudges and marks.
If there is a lot of dirt and grime on it, consider using mild soap detergent testing on a small surface first to prevent damage to larger areas.
Consider using wax to restore the wood around one time a year, with a mixture of beeswax and olive or coconut oil producing amazing results.
Caring for Solid Wood
Solid wood, especially oak, can be sanded and refurbished numerous times throughout its lifetime. Polishing with natural oil once or twice a year will help it retain its lustre for a long time. You can deal with scratches and dents by sanding it down and applying a new layer of oil.
Providing care for wood floors like this is especially useful because they suffer a lot of tear and wear. You can always get solid wood options from retailers like Builders Oak who have a reputation for providing long-lasting, beautiful wood solutions. Even when you have such great solutions, it is still a good idea to dust the wood using a soft cloth and avoid detergents. These can stain or damage the floor or leave a layer of oil that will build up over time.
Caring for Wood Decor and Floors
Regardless of the type of wood you have in the home, you should avoid placing it next to sources of heat or in direct sunlight. Doing so can lead to cracks that will be difficult to correct and fading. If you have to place wood furniture near air vents, close some louvres to reduce airflow.
Also, always clean spills up immediately because they can stain the wood. Wood can also soak up liquids leading to additional damage.
Wood is a beautiful and versatile material, but it requires some care. The exact type of care it needs will depend on how you use it, but always be gentle and use protective polishes for its preservation and longevity.
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