My Furniture Was Damaged in Storage — What Should I Do?

DIRECT ANSWER:

Remove furniture from an actively damaging environment when it is safe to do so, document its condition and identify whether moisture, heat, impact, pests, mold or another factor may be involved. Avoid aggressive cleaning or refinishing until the damage is understood.

IT WENT INTO STORAGE FINE.

IT CAME OUT DIFFERENT.

The first question is:

WHAT HAPPENED WHILE IT WAS THERE?

COMMON STORAGE PROBLEMS

Possible issues include:

High humidity

Water intrusion

Condensation

Extreme dryness

Heat

Impact

Stacking damage

Veneer lifting

Mold

Pests

Finish damage

PHOTOGRAPH BEFORE CLEANING

Document:

Complete piece

Damage

Storage conditions where relevant

Water staining

Veneer

Finish

Joints

Back

Underside

WATCH FOR BIOLOGICAL OR PEST CONCERNS

If mold, insects or other contamination may be present, appropriate professional evaluation may be needed before bringing the furniture into occupied living areas.

DON'T FORCE STUCK PARTS

Swollen drawers or doors may be vulnerable to additional damage if forced.

SAVE LOOSE VENEER AND COMPONENTS

If pieces detached during storage, preserve them.