restoration & refinishing process
Quality Restoration Process
At Off The Hinges, we take great pride in our restoration process, ensuring that each piece of furniture we offer is transformed into a stunning and functional work of art. We believe in preserving the unique character and history of vintage and antique furniture, while also ensuring its longevity for future generations to enjoy. Our restoration process is meticulous. Each piece of furniture we offer undergoes extensive preparation and attention to detail. We begin by thoroughly cleaning and repairing the furniture to address any damage and structural issues. We carefully remove old finishes and layers of dirt to reveal what lies beneath. Extensive levels of sanding are continuous to ensure seamless integration of repairs and the smoothest foundation and finishes
Vintage Origins and Imperfections
We want to emphasize that all our furniture pieces are vintage or antique, each with a unique story to tell. While our restoration process is extensive, it is essential to note that some pieces may retain small imperfections. These imperfections are intentional, serving as a reminder of their vintage origins and adding character and charm to each piece. They are a testament to the history and journey that the furniture has gone through, reminding us of its authenticity and individuality.
Premium Finishing Techniques & Products
Painted Surfaces:
To achieve a flawless and smooth finish on our painted furniture, we follow a meticulous process. After the preparation and restoration stages, we apply two base coats of primer to enhance adhesion and provide a protective barrier. We exclusively use top-quality furniture paint, specifically designed for this purpose, rather than generic wall or house paint from a hardware store. Three coats of this high-quality paint are applied to ensure vibrant colours and long-lasting results. Finally, we seal and protect the furniture with three coats of polyurethane, adding both beauty and durability. Between each layer, we meticulously sand and clean to achieve the smoothest finish possible.
Low VOC Mineral-Based Paint:
In our commitment to environmental sustainability, we prioritize the use of low VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) mineral-based furniture paint during our restoration process. This choice ensures a beautiful finish while reducing the emission of harmful chemicals into the environment. By choosing our furniture, you can have peace of mind knowing that you're making an eco-conscious and safer choice for you and your family.
Timber Surfaces:
Our restoration process for timber surfaces involves a variety of products and techniques tailored to the unique characteristics of each piece. We begin with extensive cleaning and multiple levels of sanding to highlight the grain and create a smooth and even foundation for subsequent treatments. For sealing and finishing timber surfaces, we utilise a range of options tailored to the unique characteristics of each piece.
Wood Conditioner:
Depending on the condition or type of timber we may use a wood conditioner. This product helps enhances the timber's ability to absorb the subsequent sealants and finishes, leading to a more beautiful and durable end result.
Danish and Scandinavian Oil:
we choose for enhancing the natural beauty of timber. These oils penetrate the wood, providing nourishment and highlighting the grain patterns while creating a warm and lustrous appearance.
Furniture wax:
we more commonly use this on the internal timber of drawers. This traditional method of finishing provides a protective layer that enhances the wood's sheen and assists in the smooth sliding of timber drawers. Plus additional hard bees wax is applied to all timber drawer runners.
Polyurethane:
Utilised for timber surfaces to ensure a durable and clear protective layer that safeguards the wood from scratches, stains, and other wear and tear. This finish is ideal for furniture pieces that will be subject to frequent use or exposure to moisture.
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Throughout the process, we select the most suitable products and techniques to highlight the wood's unique characteristics while providing long-lasting protection.
Professional Spray Gun Application
To ensure the smoothest and most professional finish, we use professional compressor spray guns during our painting and polyurethane finishing processes. This technique eliminates brush marks, resulting in a flawless appearance. It is our preferred method for applying paint evenly and precisely, ensuring consistent and high-quality results.
Proper Care and Maintenance
Just like any vintage furniture or artwork, proper care is essential to maintain the beauty and integrity of your piece. We advise against using harsh chemicals and abrasives, as they may damage the furniture's finish. It is always recommended to use coasters to protect the surface from heat and moisture. By following these simple care instructions, you can ensure that your restored furniture will continue to delight and inspire for years to come.