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Collectibles-General (Antiques)/help! split column on fireplace surround

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Expert: - 7/16/2008


Question
I have a beautiful mahogony fireplace surround frome 1918. It was a wedding present to my grandparents. Stupidly, I had it in storage until I could use it. The wood columns along the sides of the fireplace opening each have a 12 inch long split in them. I have to find a way to repair this  damage.  I am just broken hearted. Please offer any suggestion.  Thank you so much.

Answer
Hi Carleen
Nice to hear from you.
I am so sorry this has happened.
Its from climate change as you guessed from being in storage.
Split columns cannot be repaired.
Get the surround into the home environment and leave it a few weeks. Let it climatize to your home.
I am hoping the split will close some but don't hold your breath.
After that the only solution is wood filler.
Then it needs to be touched up to match the rest of the wood.
Kind Regards
Eileen

Collectibles-General (Antiques)

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Eileen Cronk

Expertise

I can answer most questions about the repairing and refinishing of all your old furniture items (the things we call antiques). I can also give you advice on what wood items to choose and what wood items to avoid at auctions, flea markets etc. I DO NOT give appraisals on antiques as this is not my field of expertise.

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I have been repairing, refinishing and of course buying old furniture for the past 30 years. On any given weekend I can be found at auction sales or flea markets searching out a good buy. I have taken several courses in this area over the years, but I find "Hands On" learning to be the best teacher. I can help you avoid the pitfalls and problems of this wonderful rewarding craft.

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