Furniture Repair - Expert Top Tips

Skilled in all types of furniture repair

If a favourite piece of furniture has taken a bit of a knock recently, don't be too ready to rush out and buy something to replace it, repair is a lot less expensive. Established in 1992, Furniture Medic provides expert furniture repair and restoration services both on and off site, depending on the damage. The company will repair all kinds of modern and antique furniture including upholstery.

However, since we all know prevention is better than cure, we caught up with Furniture Medic's technical expert Gary Butler to get his advice on some common problems and how they can be repaired.

Dye Transfer - Leather has a tendency to absorb colours from other fabrics such as denim. Gary says, “a good regular care routine will reduce the build up of dye and your furniture will retain its appearance.” Gary advises you clean your leather sofa monthly using a good leather cleaner which should be applied using circular motions with a soft brush such as a new shoe brush. Blot dry the surface using paper towels and allow to dry thoroughly. Finally apply a leather conditioner and make sure your sofa is completely dry before using. It is vital to find out what type of leather your sofa is, as this repair does not apply to Aniline or Semi Aniline leathers.

Ink Stains - If you accidentally mark your leather furniture with a ball point pen do not be tempted to immediately start scrubbing! Gary says, “It is important you act quickly, but don’t start scrubbing frantically to repair the damage, just apply your normal leather cleaner to a soft cloth and gently rub. Ink does have a tendency to disperse over time so just continue with your normal care routine and eventually you will hardly even know it was there!”

Oil Finished Tables and Surfaces - Much of the modern furniture about today has an oil finish to it which requires regular maintenance. This kind of finish is not permanent. Gary warns that each time you wipe your table down, a small amount of the finish is removed! He advises that when purchasing an item enquire as to what type of oil it has been finished with. To keep your furniture looking at its best, apply the oil once every one to two months.

“Don’t be so quick to conclude that you have to fork out to replace your damaged, loved furniture as there are some tricks of the trade that you can do yourself as a quick fix repair depending on the severity of the damage," says Gary. "Equally, you can take preventative measures to ensure your loved furniture does not fall victim to common mishaps in the home.”

For more information on furniture repair and to find your nearest Furniture Medic visit www.furnituremedic.co.uk