Safeguarding Your Investment: Preventable Damage
Olivya Stone furniture is crafted with exceptional quality standards. Despite this, even the finest pieces can be susceptible to damage from environmental factors and improper care. This guide provides essential tips and knowledge to help you keep your furniture in top condition for years to come.
Importance of Environmental Control
Museum conservators recommend optimal conditions for wooden furniture at 40 degrees Fahrenheit and 50% relative humidity, free from light, oxygen, and physical contact.
While such conditions are impractical for daily use, understanding the impact of light and temperature fluctuations can help you make better decisions to protect and enjoy your furniture.
Light Exposure
Light can cause lasting damage to furniture, leading to discoloration. Finishes may yellow, wood can oxidize or bleach, and fabrics can fade.
Reducing light exposure can significantly slow this damage. Keep in mind that any exposure to light will cause some level of damage, depending on its intensity and duration.
Light Protection Tips
Turn off lights when not needed.
Use blinds or curtains to block sunlight.
Cover furniture not in use for long periods.
Avoid placing objects like vases, lamps, or books on furniture in bright light.
Controlling Relative Humidity
Extreme changes in relative humidity can severely damage furniture. Wood naturally expands and contracts, which can lead to ill-fitting doors and drawers, or even cracks. High humidity can also cause leather to sag.
Olivya Stone recommends maintaining a consistent 50% relative humidity, with a margin of ±5%.
Humidity Control Tips
Maintain consistent heating and cooling in spaces with wood furniture, even when not in use.
Install a humidistat to keep humidity levels stable.
Use an inexpensive hygrometer to monitor humidity. Adjust if levels fall below 45% or rise above 55%.
Monitor temperature since it affects relative humidity.