How Do I Know If Furniture Is Worth Refinishing?

DIRECT ANSWER:

Furniture may be worth refinishing when the underlying construction remains sound, the primary problems are surface-related, the piece is useful or meaningful, and the desired result justifies the work. Refinishing should be approached cautiously when an original finish may contribute to antique or collector value.

DON'T ASK ONLY:

"IS THE FINISH BAD?"

ASK:

"WHAT'S UNDERNEATH IT?"

GOOD CANDIDATES MAY HAVE

Worn finish

Scratches

Fading

Water marks

Uneven color

Old coatings

Cosmetic wear

while retaining fundamentally sound construction.

CHECK STRUCTURE FIRST

Before spending money on appearance, identify:

Loose joints

Cracks

Broken parts

Missing components

Veneer problems

Water damage

Structural movement

THINK ABOUT USEFULNESS

Ask:

Do I like the size?

Does it fit?

Would I use it?

Would comparable replacement quality be difficult to find?

Does it have personal significance?

BE CAREFUL WITH POTENTIAL ANTIQUES

An old or original finish may matter.

If collector value is a concern, seek appropriate appraisal guidance before irreversible refinishing.

REFINISHING IS NOT THE SAME AS RESTORATION

Refinishing primarily addresses the surface.

Restoration may involve a broader effort to preserve, repair and return a piece to appropriate function and appearance.

Repair addresses physical problems.

Know which problem you are trying to solve.