Live edge wood furniture, especially live edge coffee tables, has gained immense popularity in recent years due to its unique natural beauty and ability to add character to any room. These tables preserve the natural edges of the wood, making each piece one-of-a-kind. However, to keep your live edge coffee table looking stunning for years, it’s essential to maintain its shine and durability. In this blog post, we will explore practical tips and tricks to ensure your live edge wood coffee table remains in pristine condition, while also discussing its role as a functional art piece in your home.
Why do Live Edge Tables Require Special Care?
Before diving into maintenance tips, it’s important to understand why live edge tables require special care compared to other types of wood furniture. Unlike traditional furniture, live edge tables maintain the raw edges of the tree, showcasing the wood’s natural grain and texture. These edges are often more delicate and can be prone to wear and tear if not properly cared for. Additionally, live edge wood coffee tables are often made from hardwoods like walnut, oak, or maple, which, while durable, still require specific attention to preserve their beauty.
Taking proper care of your custom live edge tables will help maintain their luster and ensure that they continue to be a centerpiece in your living space for years to come.
Clean Regularly, But Gently
The first step to maintaining your live edge coffee table is regular cleaning. Dust, dirt, and spills can accumulate on the surface, dulling the natural shine over time. However, it’s essential to avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning materials that could damage the wood.
Use a Soft Cloth: Opt for a microfiber or cotton cloth to gently remove dust. Microfiber is especially effective in trapping dust particles without scratching the surface.
Mild Cleaning Solution: If your table needs a deeper cleaning, use a mild cleaning solution made from water and a small amount of dish soap. Apply the solution with a damp cloth, making sure to dry the surface immediately afterward to prevent moisture damage.
Avoid using furniture polish or cleaners that contain wax or silicone, as these can create buildup and diminish the wood’s natural beauty.
Protect from Direct Sunlight and Heat
Wood is sensitive to environmental changes, and live edge wood coffee tables are no exception. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or heat can cause the wood to fade, crack, or warp over time. To keep your live edge table in its best condition:
Position Wisely: Place your table away from windows where it could be exposed to harsh sunlight. If this isn’t possible, consider using window treatments like curtains or blinds to block direct rays during the sunniest parts of the day.
Heat Sources: Keep your live edge coffee table away from heat sources such as radiators, fireplaces, or even heating vents. The excessive heat can dry out the wood, leading to cracks and splits.
If you’re using your table in a dining area with hot dishes, be sure to protect the surface by placing trivets or heat-resistant pads underneath plates or cookware.
Condition the Wood Regularly
To maintain the rich, lustrous finish of your live edge wood coffee table, it’s important to condition the wood regularly. Over time, natural wood can dry out, losing its natural oils, which can lead to cracks and dullness.
Use Natural Oil Finishes: Apply natural oils like linseed or tung oil to condition your table. These oils penetrate the wood, restoring its moisture and giving it a rich, polished look. Apply the oil with a soft cloth, following the grain of the wood. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes before wiping off any excess oil.
Frequency of Conditioning: Depending on the environment and the type of wood, conditioning should be done every few months. If you live in a particularly dry climate, you may need to condition more often to keep your custom live edge table looking its best.
Be sure to avoid products with synthetic oils or chemicals, as these can interfere with the wood’s natural aging process.
Protect the Surface from Scratches and Stains
Live edge custom dining tables are often the focal point of a living room, which means they are highly susceptible to scratches and stains. While it’s impossible to prevent every mishap, there are ways to minimize damage and maintain the table’s pristine condition.
Use Coasters and Place mats: One of the simplest ways to protect your table is by using coasters under drinks and place mats under plates. Moisture rings from glasses and heat stains from dishes can easily mar the surface of your table, especially if left unattended for too long.
Add a Glass Top: If you want extra protection while still showcasing the beauty of your live edge wood coffee table, consider adding a custom-cut glass top. This allows you to protect the table from daily wear and tear without sacrificing its aesthetic appeal.
Lift, Don’t Drag: When moving items like vases, books, or decorative pieces, always lift them rather than dragging them across the surface. Dragging objects can leave scratches or scuff marks that may be difficult to repair.
Address Minor Scratches and Dents Quickly
Even with the best precautions, minor scratches or dents may occur. The good news is that these can often be addressed with simple solutions that restore your table’s appearance.
Light Sanding: For small scratches, lightly sand the affected area with fine-grit sandpaper, following the grain of the wood. After sanding, reapply oil or wood conditioner to restore the shine.
Wood Filler for Deeper Dents: For more significant dents, use a wood filler that matches the color of your table. Once the filler dries, gently sand the area and finish with oil or a matching stain to blend it with the rest of the surface.
By addressing imperfections as soon as they appear, you can prevent them from becoming more significant issues down the road.
Seasonal Maintenance and Care
Wood naturally expands and contracts with changes in humidity, which can cause your custom live edge tables to shift slightly or develop small cracks. To prevent seasonal damage:
Maintain Stable Humidity Levels: Use a humidifier during dry winter months to prevent the wood from drying out. Similarly, during the summer, a dehumidifier can help reduce excessive moisture that may cause the wood to swell.
Inspect for Cracks: Regularly inspect the edges of your custom live edge tables for small cracks. Catching them early can allow you to fill or repair them before they spread.
Long-Term Care for Custom Live Edge Tables
A live edge wood coffee table is more than just a piece of furniture – it’s an investment. With proper long-term care, it can last for generations and even become a family heirloom. Regular cleaning, conditioning, and protection will keep it in prime condition while paying attention to environmental factors like humidity and sunlight will prevent significant damage.
Conclusion
Owning a live edge coffee table brings a piece of nature into your home. The natural wood grains and unique edges create an artistic statement, but like any investment, they require proper care to maintain their beauty and longevity. By following the above tips and tricks, from regular cleaning to addressing scratches and dents, you can ensure that your live edge wood coffee table remains the centerpiece of your living room for years to come.
Whether you’re already a proud owner or considering adding custom live edge tables to your home, keeping these maintenance practices in mind will help preserve the beauty and integrity of your furniture, allowing it to shine for years to come.