Live edge tables are uniquely beautiful pieces, bringing so much natural elegance and personality to any space. With a custom live edge table for your dining, a kitchen table, or an astounding coffee table made of such a piece, care is very much needed on these wooden tables to retain the perfect finish and continue looking energetic and intact. With only some maintenance tips, your custom live edge tables will last for many years; here’s everything you need to know about protecting and maintaining your live edge table finish.
1. Choosing the Right Spot for Your Table
Placement would be the best way to guarantee that your live edge table finishes. Sunlight, humidity, and temperature changes alter the condition of the wood and the finish.
Avoid Direct Sunlight: Direct sunlight will eventually fade the wood. At times, it will also cause cracks or warping on the table. You may want to put curtains or blinds on the windows around your live edge table so it can have filtered light during peak hours.
Maintain Stable Humidity Levels: Wood is sensitive to humidity, so you should keep the room in a stable humidity level ranging from 40% to 60%. You may use a humidifier or dehumidifier if you have a tendency for drastic changes in humidity with the seasons.
Temperature Matters: Keep your live edge kitchen table or dining table away from direct heat sources like radiators or vents. The constant changes in temperature may also make the wood warp or shrink, affecting the finish eventually.
2. Use Coasters and Mats
Whether it is to serve as a plate for eating, a glass for drinking, or a sort of display for décor, use coasters, placemats, and trivets to protect the finish. This is especially so in a live edge coffee table. You are bound to casually place drinks and snacks within this type of table.
Drink Coasters: Cold drinks and hot beverages cause condensation and heat damage on the finish. Coasters are the easy way to avoid these marks.
Hot Dishes Placement: A live edge dining table, especially those with an epoxy finish, requires a trivet or heat-resistant mat for keeping dishes. Direct heat will ruin or discolor the finish, especially for epoxy tables that sell with a glossy protective layer on.
3. Regular Cleaning is a must
Cleaning on a regular basis will remove buildup from dirt, dust, and oils that tend to settle on the table surface. But the products and techniques matter.
Dust Regularly: The modern live edge dining table needs to be dusted with a soft dry cloth one or two times a week. This removes minor scratches that eventually collect on it, dulling the finish.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Instead of using severe chemical cleaners to clean, use mild soap mixed with water. Apply it generously using a damp, soft cloth and wipe it dry. Strong chemicals may eat away the finish and destroy the wood.
Use Wood Cleaner Occasionally: About once a month or sometimes, apply a wood cleaner or polish to wooden furniture. These products add another layer to the surface; they help to enhance both the finish and the sheen of the wood.
4. Apply Finish as Necessary
Even with the best care, a live edge table will require touch-ups of its finish over time. A refinish layer keeps the wood protected and looking fresh, especially on high-use pieces such as a live edge kitchen table.
Identify the Right Finish: Most live edge tables have a finish that is oil, wax, or epoxy. If you have a custom live edge table, be sure to ask your builder what type of finish they used so you can reapply the same kind.
How Frequently to Refinish: Apply an oil or wax finish once a year or when you first notice your table is drying out and looking worn out. Epoxy tables for sale are very durable and rarely need refinishing; but occasionally reapplying fresh layers every few years would be necessary sometimes, depending on daily use.
Conclusion
A live edge table is more than just furniture; it’s an art piece that will bring warmth and character to your space. With some regular care, your live edge kitchen table or modern live edge dining table can hold its beauty and charm for generations. For those considering investing in one, don’t forget that well-maintained live edge tables and epoxy tables for sale offer the added bonus of easy care for enduring elegance!