Frequently Asked Questions!

Q: Is it possible to refinish my dining table top excluding the legs, chairs and buffet?

A: Yes. We often redo tabletops only and are able to match the color to the other pieces.

Q: Can your finishes prevent ring-marks from glasses?

A: Yes. We use a vinyl sealer to make our finishes waterproof and also seal the underside of the tabletops. Heat, however will harm most finishes.

Q: How hard are your finishes?

A: Too hard to scratch with your fingernail. We use a catalyzed lacquer with high solids. Our finishes come in dull, satin, semi-gloss and high gloss. However, it is still possible to get scratches and abrasions from heavy use.

Q: Can you match my dining set to go with my kitchen cabinets?

A: In most cases we can get very close color matches even with different species of wood. A lot of furniture forensics go into determining the color step process of high end finishes. I have accumulated experience and knowledge of color and finish theory over the past twenty-five years.

Q: Will refinishing lesson the value of my mother's hope chest?

A: That depends. If it was a mass produced item from the 20th century then probably not. The antique market value is determined by age, scarcity and condition. If it was handed down from your grandparents or great grandparents then I would carefully refurbish the existing finish. If it has hand painted artwork it is even more crucial to conserve it. By doing work this way I don't chance losing antique value and keep the age showing. I always confer with my clients on what level of restoration a piece needs to maintain the value, appearance and usefulness.

Q: Will stripping harm my furniture?

A: If it contains particle board we prefer not to use our flow over stripping system as it can cause swelling. All other types of furniture do well.

Q: Do you do repairs?

A: Yes, all types. Also upholstery. We are the one stop for all your furniture restoration needs.

Q: Will you let me bring my own fabric for my work?

A: Yes. We will use yours and you are also welcome to look at our many fabric sample books.

Q: My puppy chewed my chair legs. Can you repair them?

A: Of course. Puppies and children provide a steady revenue stream.

Q: Can you quote me a price over the phone?

A: I can give you a ballpark figure after asking a few questions. You can also email me pictures through the contact page. A firm estimate will be given when I see the piece up close.

Q: Can you quote me a price over the phone?

A: I can give you a ballpark figure after asking a few questions. You can also email me pictures through the contact page. A firm estimate will be given when I see the piece up close.

Q: How much do your estimates cost?

A: They are free unless a loss claim due to flood or fire is needed. In that case we charge $100

Q: I had 3 feet of water in my house. Can you restore my furniture?

A: In most cases solid wood furniture is restorable even with 5 feet of water. When it dries out and there is no major warpage we are good to go on with restoration. Even veneered pieces often do well. Upholstery and particle board furniture is generally not restorable after water intrusion.

Q: Is the dollar amount I will spend to restore my furniture more than the pieces are worth?

A: It depends on how you value the furniture you own. Was it passed down to you? Will you be a good custodian and pass it on? What I consult about is how to place an heirloom value on restoration. Every day I tell people that with upholstery you can buy new for less than a redo, unless it is that "Special Piece". Often time’s sentimental value outweighs monetary considerations, although I only consider giving reasonable prices. The family values inherent in heirlooms is what brought me to the business and keeps rewarding me every time I bring new life into a family treasure for a new generation.