You are here:

Collectibles-General (Antiques)/Wooden Bench Restoration

Advertisement


Question

Rustic Bench/Porch Swi
Hello, I recently purchased a bench or two person chair, I am not sure what it would be termed.  I was wondering if this is something I should leave all the layers of paint on, or do I try to strip it all of and stain it?  I was told that it is solid oak, although I do not know if it is true.  It has been shortened I believe and made into a swing.  Do you know the approx age of this chair and maybe what area it could be from?  I do not want an appraisal I just really like it and am trying to learn more before I hang it on the porch.  Thanks again for your time.

Answer
As far as the age goes, they are still making this type of chair today, so I can't help with an age. As far as painting is concerned, I would strip the old paint off and if it is actually oak, finish it with a stain and clear coat. If it turns out to be another lesser grade wood, you can repaint and get a nice job that will last awhile. At the very least, you need to remove as much old paint as you can and sand smooth the remaining paint to get a nice job. I don't think your bench would have a lot of value even if it is older.
Thanks for your question,
 Rob
www.andersonsrestorations.com
    Questioner's Rating
    Rating(1-10)Knowledgeability = 10Clarity of Response = 10Politeness = 10
    CommentThanks for the info I will strip it down.


  • Add to this Answer
  • Ask a Question

Anderson's Restorations-Rob Anderson

Expertise

We can answer questions about wicker repair and restoration, chair seating[caning-rush-splint-danish cord] furniture refinishing and repair, brass and copper polishing, veneering and veneer repair. WE WILL NOT GIVE APPRAISALS or answer "WHATS IT WORTH" questions. If you want a value, contact us for our current costs for this service.

Experience

Just entered our 40th year doing this work. We started in Fl and have been in NC for the last 15 years. We have a web site www.andersonsrestorations.com where we have alot of information about us and a blog at www.andersons-restorations.blogspot.com where we have many before and after photos of our work.We also are experienced in Fiat Jolly Seats and other automobile seating and work on Horse Drawn Carriage pieces.

Organizations
Past president of a historical museum

Publications
Antique Shoppe Newspaper, Yadkin Valley Living Magazine, Antique Lynks Newspaper

Education/Credentials
Seminole HS in Seminole FL class of 1965 and some college before entering service. US Army

Awards and Honors
Asked to demonstrate seat weaving at the NC Musuem of History, Paleigh, for 3 days. Demonstrated at the Mountain Heritage Festival, Sparta,NC.

Past/Present Clients
Restoring 35 pieces of wicker for the Governors Mansion, Raleigh,NC paid through private funding.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.