Fine interior woodwork makes a tasteful, stunning accent in any space! It’s easily adapted to any style and maintains its durability over time. It’s the perfect investment to create a cultured, cohesive look throughout your home.
To get the most out of your custom interior millwork, it’s essential that you put in the time and effort to take care of it like you would any other feature in your house. Follow these handy maintenance tips to keep your millwork in tip top shape for years to come!
Dust regularly.
Airborne dust builds up on surfaces over time and wood is no exception. Routinely dusting your millwork is important because these particles can be abrasive, and dull or scratch your finish over time if left unchecked. Use a dry, soft, or electrostatic cloth to gently wipe down your interior wooden elements a couple of times a month.
Avoid chemical cleaners.
Never use anything other than water or a custom product to clean your millwork. Harsh chemicals—and even some waxes and polishes—can damage the wood or stick to the surface and impede future touch-ups.
This is not to say you shouldn’t clean your millwork, just be sure to use the right supplies! Use a lightly dampened cloth to remove dirt and debris. When you’re finished, don’t forget to dry the surface right away so the water doesn’t seep in.
Monitor the humidity.
Wooden furniture and surfaces are known for being resistant to damage, but moisture is one of their weaknesses. If there’s too much moisture in the air, wood will absorb it and expand. If the air becomes too dry, it will release water and contract.
Over time, these movements will weaken the structure and warp the appearance of the wood. Help your wood maintain its beauty and strength by using exhaust fans and a humidifier or dehumidifier to maintain a constant humidity of approximately 25-55%.
If you’re interested in implementing refined custom millwork throughout your home—or the woodwork you have now is in need of a refresh—give A & E Millwork a call! As one of New York’s leading architectural millwork providers, we’re excited to put our skill, experience, and passion to work for you. Contact us today to get started on your custom project!