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So, you’re in the market for genuine antique furniture, eh? Who isn’t! Adding an exquisite antique to your home can bring an instant majesty to everyday living. But if you’re new to antique buying, you may be unsure what warning signs to look for when choosing an antique to take home with you. We’ve compiled a short quick-start guide to help you on your way to the perfect addition to your home.

Spotting Water Damage

When choosing new antique furniture, don’t forget to give consideration to water damage. Antique furniture is comprised of wood is particularly vulnerable to water damage. Remember to check the piece thoroughly, as water damage may only appear on the underside of chairs or tables. Inspecting an antique inch by inch is essential for choosing a gem that will last a lifetime.

Checking for Mold

Don’t forget about mold! Water damage doesn’t necessarily need to be present to manifest unwanted spores. Giving the same inch by inch treatment to antiques is absolutely critical to stave off making a poor investment. Many credible antique dealers will ensure their wares are free from such  plagues, but many amateurs may not- especially those found in thrift stores or flea markets.

Considering Rot or Deteriorating Material

Even if you find the perfect piece it’s not wise to invest in furniture that has already succumb to the devastation of mold. Unfortunately, even if you’re an ace at restoring antiques (you do know restoring, or altering antiques in any way may ultimately diminish its value, right?), you can’t truly rectify instances of rot or deteriorating material. Cracks, splitting, and other fissures in the structure of furniture can render any piece absolutely worthless.
Don’t go it alone! If you find something you think is a gem, you can always send us a picture, and use our contact page– we’ll try to evaluate anything as best as we can offsite

The Globe USA Llc.

Italian Antique Expert since 1965

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