1)    Does refinishing destroy the value?

Value can often be increased through restoration when the correct process is matched to the need and historical value of your furniture. A piece can be de-valued when the wrong process removes all traces of the original condition.

2)    How do I know my piece is worth restoring?

The article on our website may help you; please read the “9 Questions Anyone Can Use to Determine When to Restore.” Also a Free Evaluation will help if you have answered “yes” to most of the “9 Questions.”

3)    Does it cost less to restore than replace?

It depends on the quality, uniqueness and connection you have to your furniture. The “9 Questions Anyone Can Use to Determine When to Restore” is helpful to read.

4)    What is an Evaluation and how is it different from just an estimate?

An experienced estimator provides a free 23-Point Inspection in your home to evaluate the condition of your pieces to determine the materials, finish, history, approximate age, when it was built, by whom, and what each piece needs; culminating in an informal appraisal of the current fair market value and the value after restoration.

5)    Do you restore only antiques?

We restore quality pieces from the 16th century to the 21st century, modern and antique. Check out our photo gallery for some examples.

6)    What is the difference between refinishing, restoration and conservation?

Refinishing is defined as the chemical removal of the existing finish, sanding, staining and the application of a new finish. Which may or may not be the correct process to protect the authenticity of a piece, depending on it’s historical, sentimental and intrinsic value.
Positive: Refinishing can produce good results when a finish is no longer usable or restorable and must be removed and replaced. The result is a functional and beautiful finish.
Negative: Total refinishing can produce a generic one-finish-fits-all result which is not always desirable on unique pieces.

Restoration is defined by Webster’s dictionary as “a bringing back into a former, normal or unimpaired state or condition…a representation of the original form.” In other words, restoring involves bringing back the original condition through the investigation of what process matches the need, the historical, sentimental and intrinsic value of any piece. A unique piece requires a unique process.
Positive: Restoration can produce excellent results and increase value when a piece is in need of major repair and has historical and sentimental value. The result is increased value and usability for future generations.
Negative: Restoration can cost as much as replacement and must be measured by an appraisal of historical, sentimental and intrinsic value.

Conservation as defined by Webster’s dictionary “is the act of preserving, guarding or protecting; preservation from loss, decay, injury or violation. The official care and protection of natural resources….” In other words when you have a Louis XV piece don’t refinish it, maybe not even restore it (unless of course it has been neglected for 100 years) but focus on conserving, protecting, cleaning, minor repairs as you would a fine art piece that is meant to last for centuries.
Positive: Conservation will preserve and increase the value of any piece when properly investigated and administered. The result is to preserve and increase value for centuries.
Negative: Conservation in some cases can render a piece unusable due to the sensitivity of the veneer or the finish.