We’re passionate about millwork. Whether it’s crown moulding, custom cabinets, or a perfectly bevelled (and levelled) shelf, we think millwork is an indispensable part of any exceptional indoor or outdoor space. While millwork undeniably adds warmth and personality to a space immediately after installation, the right care and maintenance are crucial to keeping it beautiful and functional decades into the future.
We’re extremely familiar with the difference between well-maintained millwork and… well, less well-maintained millwork. We’ve been called to countless repair jobs from first-time clients who received less-than-adequate instructions from other contractors.
Let’s keep your home beautiful and your wallet free from any surprise renovation costs. Here’s how to protect your investment and keep your custom wood features looking as good as new:
Clean Regularly but Gently
Dust and debris are the unassuming killers of millwork base. Over time, the buildup of dust can dull finishes and reduce the vibrancy and shine of stained or sealed wood.
Luckily, this fate is easily prevented. Clean your millwork with a soft cloth. Mild soap and water will do, but don’t let the moisture linger as the wood will absorb it and warp. Whatever you do, DON’T use harsh chemicals or cleaners.
Manage Humidity, 24/7
Wood is a “living” material. It’s extremely sensitive to fluctuations in moisture, as one might expect from a material that comes from trees. Consistently high humidity levels can lead to swelling. However, on the flip side, air that is too dry can cause cracking.
The optimal indoor humidity is between 30 and 50 percent. We recommend using humidifiers or dehumidifiers as needed to maintain these levels, especially in seasonal climates.
Too Much Sun is No Fun
That pesky sun just won’t stop shining its rays all over everything. While you might enjoy a little summer tan, prolonged UV exposure will fade the finish of your millwork. In severe cases, it can even yellow its protective coating.
UV-filtering window treatments are a great way to protect your millwork from exposure, and a properly applied treatment can last up to 20 years. For new projects, consider choosing a finish with built-in UV-resistant properties.
Handle with Care
Wood is strong, but nothing is unbreakable. Dents, scratches, and stress are the hallmarks of a well-loved piece and accumulate over time. While this outcome can sometimes be unavoidable in high-traffic spaces, there are steps you can take to minimize the wear and tear.
Felt pads are the first line of defence but think about your usage patterns as well. Don’t try to stack items that are too heavy on shelves or other millwork surfaces designed for lighter loads.
Get a Regular, Professional Checkup
As we age, it’s recommended that we see a healthcare professional more frequently. It’s the same for millwork company. A trained professional eye will be able to detect and address the hidden signs of wear that can compromise the integrity of your millwork.
A savvy technician will know to inspect for loose joints and warping. It’s also best practice to call one every five or 10 years, to refinish the piece and adjust the alignment in cases of drift.
Out with the Old, In with the New
Properly installed millwork shouldn’t require frequent replacement, but sometimes the damage is too great (or your stylistic preferences change), and it becomes time to say goodbye to an old friend.
Cracking, rot, and warping are some of the tell-tale signs that a change may need to be imminent. Generally, however, well-maintained millwork should last for 15-30 years.
Final Thoughts
- As with everything else in life, consistency is key.
- Paying a little attention every now and then to the maintenance of your millwork will pay dividends, both financially and aesthetically.
- At Mixed Bag Solutions Inc., we’re proud to offer not only new bespoke millwork fabrication Toronto, Canada, but also regular service and maintenance packages.
- If you need a trusted partner in the care and upkeep of your woodwork, we’d love to hear from you.