Category: Sungkai Wood

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Reviving and Restoring Old Wooden Furniture

Reviving and Restoring Old Wooden Furniture, old wooden furniture holds a unique charm and character that adds a touch of history and nostalgia to any space. Whether you’ve inherited a family heirloom or stumbled upon a hidden gem at a flea market, reviving and restoring old wooden furniture can breathe new life into these cherished pieces. With some patience, care, and a few techniques, you can transform worn-out furniture into stunning focal points. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you in the process.

Assess the Condition:
Before starting any restoration project, carefully assess the condition of the furniture. Look for signs of damage, such as cracks, splits, loose joints, or missing parts. Take note of any major repairs that need to be addressed.

Clean the Surface:
Remove years of dirt, grime, and old finishes from the furniture’s surface. Begin by dusting off loose debris and then gently clean using a soft cloth or brush. For stubborn dirt or residue, use a mild detergent mixed with warm water. Avoid using harsh chemicals that may damage the wood.

Strip the Old Finish:
If the furniture has a previous finish that is cracked or worn, stripping it off is necessary to create a clean canvas. Choose a suitable paint or finish stripper based on the type of existing finish. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and use a scraper or steel wool to remove the softened finish.

Repair Damaged Areas:
Address any structural issues or damaged areas of the furniture. Use wood glue to fix loose joints or broken pieces. Fill cracks, gaps, or holes with wood filler, and once dry, sand the repaired areas until smooth. Replace any missing hardware or decorative elements, ensuring they match the original style.

Sanding:
Sanding is a crucial step to achieve a smooth and even surface for refinishing. Start with coarse-grit sandpaper and gradually move to finer grits. Sand along the grain of the wood, paying attention to detail areas and hard-to-reach corners. Remove all traces of the previous finish and any remaining imperfections.

Choose a Finish:
Decide on the type of finish that suits the style and intended use of the furniture. Options include stain, paint, or clear varnish. Stains enhance the natural beauty of the wood, while paint can provide a fresh, updated look. Clear varnish or lacquer can protect the wood and bring out its natural luster. Test different finishes on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure the desired result.

Apply the Finish:
Following the manufacturer’s instructions, apply the chosen finish evenly and smoothly. Use a brush, sponge, or cloth, depending on the type of finish. Apply multiple thin coats rather than one thick coat for a more professional finish. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Sand lightly between coats for a smooth finish.

Protect and Maintain:
Once the finish has fully cured, protect your restored furniture by using coasters, placemats, or felt pads to prevent scratches and moisture damage. Clean the surface regularly with a soft cloth or mild soap and water. Avoid placing the furniture in direct sunlight or exposing it to extreme temperature or humidity changes.

Remember, restoration projects require time, effort, and attention to detail. Take your time, work in a well-ventilated area, and use appropriate safety gear when handling chemicals or power tools. With patience and careful craftsmanship, you can revive and restore old wooden furniture, preserving its beauty for generations to come.

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Seasonal Care for Wooden Outdoor Furniture

Seasonal Care for Wooden Outdoor Furniture, wooden outdoor furniture adds a natural and charming touch to any outdoor space. However, exposure to the elements can take a toll on its appearance and durability over time. To ensure that your wooden outdoor furniture stays in good condition and lasts for years, it’s essential to provide proper seasonal care. Here are some tips to help you maintain and protect your wooden furniture throughout the seasons.

Regular Cleaning:
Regular cleaning is crucial to remove dirt, dust, and stains from your wooden furniture. Use a soft brush or cloth to sweep away loose debris. For a deeper clean, mix a mild detergent with warm water and gently scrub the surface. Rinse thoroughly with water and allow the furniture to dry completely before applying any treatments.

Applying Protective Finish:
Applying a protective finish is one of the best ways to shield your wooden furniture from moisture, UV rays, and other damaging elements. Before applying any finish, ensure the furniture is clean and dry. There are various types of finishes available, such as sealers, stains, or paints. Choose a finish that suits the natural look you desire while offering adequate protection. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and reapply as recommended.

Seasonal Inspection:
Regularly inspect your wooden furniture to identify any signs of damage, such as cracks, splinters, or loose joints. Address these issues promptly to prevent further deterioration. Repair any damaged areas by sanding, filling cracks with wood filler, and refinishing as needed. Tighten loose joints or screws to maintain the structural integrity of the furniture.

Protection from Moisture:
Moisture is one of the biggest enemies of wooden furniture. During the wet seasons or when not in use, it’s essential to protect your furniture from excessive moisture. Consider using furniture covers or storing the pieces in a shed or garage when not in use. Elevate the furniture slightly by using rubber or wooden pads to prevent direct contact with wet ground or grass.

Avoid Direct Sunlight:
Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can fade the color and dry out the wood, leading to cracking or warping. Whenever possible, place your wooden furniture in shaded areas or use umbrellas and canopies to provide protection. Regularly rotate the furniture to ensure even exposure to sunlight and prevent uneven discoloration.

Seasonal Maintenance:
Different seasons require specific maintenance routines. In spring and summer, remove any debris, check for signs of wear, and reapply protective finishes if necessary. In autumn, clean the furniture thoroughly to remove fallen leaves and prepare it for the winter. Before winter sets in, consider storing your wooden furniture indoors or covering it securely to protect it from harsh weather conditions.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals:
When cleaning your wooden furniture, avoid using harsh chemicals, bleach, or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the wood’s surface. Stick to mild soapy water or dedicated wood cleaners. Always test any new cleaning products on a small, inconspicuous area before applying them to the entire piece.

Remember, the specific care requirements may vary depending on the type of wood used in your furniture. Always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines and recommendations for the best care practices. By following these seasonal care tips, you can keep your wooden outdoor furniture looking beautiful and ensure its longevity.

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Natural and Eco-Friendly Treatments for Wooden Furniture

Natural and Eco-Friendly Treatments for Wooden Furniture, when it comes to natural and eco-friendly treatments for wooden furniture, there are several options you can consider. These treatments help protect the wood, enhance its appearance, and promote a healthier indoor environment. Here are a few suggestions:

Beeswax Polish: Beeswax is a natural and safe option for polishing and protecting wooden furniture. It helps nourish the wood, enhances its natural beauty, and provides a protective layer. To use beeswax, simply melt it and apply a thin layer to the furniture using a soft cloth. Buff it gently to achieve a smooth and lustrous finish.

Linseed Oil: Linseed oil is derived from flax seeds and is a popular natural treatment for wooden furniture. It penetrates the wood, providing moisture and protection. You can apply it by rubbing a small amount onto the surface with a cloth and allowing it to soak in. Remember to use pure, food-grade linseed oil rather than the boiled variety, as boiled linseed oil often contains additives.

Vinegar and Olive Oil: A mixture of vinegar and olive oil can be used to clean and condition wooden furniture. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and olive oil, and apply the mixture to the furniture using a soft cloth. This combination helps remove dirt and grime while moisturizing the wood. Remember to test this mixture on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure compatibility with your furniture’s finish.

Citrus-based Cleaners: Citrus-based cleaners are non-toxic and effective at cleaning wooden furniture. Look for products that contain natural citrus extracts and avoid cleaners with harsh chemicals. These cleaners can remove stains, grease, and fingerprints while leaving a pleasant scent.

Tea or Coffee Stain: If you want to darken the color of light-colored wooden furniture, you can use a natural stain made from tea or coffee. Brew a strong batch of tea or coffee and let it cool. Apply the liquid to the wood using a brush or cloth, and repeat until you achieve the desired shade. Once the stain is dry, seal it with a natural varnish or wax.

Baking Soda Paste: Baking soda is an excellent natural cleaner and can be used to remove stains or scratches on wooden furniture. Make a paste by mixing baking soda with a small amount of water. Apply the paste to the affected area and gently rub it in with a soft cloth. Wipe away the residue and buff the wood to restore its shine.

Remember to always test any natural treatment on a small, inconspicuous area of your wooden furniture before applying it to the entire piece. This ensures compatibility and avoids any potential damage.

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Things You Should Pay Attention to in Choosing Wood Paint

5 Things You Should Pay Attention to in Choosing Wood Paint. Wooden Furniture is love by many people. The appearance is suitable for all styles from minimalism, vintage design, shabby chic, Scandinavian, Mediterranean, classic, to modern. The durability of wood is also worth considering because it lasts for decades, if using high-quality wood it can take hundreds of years. The surface needs to be coated with wood paint to get more beautiful

The choice of wood paint may sound trivial, some people pay more attention to its beauty. And if done, the result will be less than perfect and the wood does not look beautiful. Then, what do you need to pay attention to when choosing wood paint?

1. The type of wood that affects the type of wood paint

Type of Wood: Different types of wood require different types of paint. Some woods, like pine or cedar, are soft and porous, which means they require a paint with good penetration and adhesion. Hardwoods like oak or maple, on the other hand, are denser and require a paint that is more durable and scratch-resistant. Make sure you choose a paint that is specifically designed for the type of wood you are working with.

2. Application Method: 

There are several methods of applying wood paint, including brushing, spraying, and rolling. The method you choose will depend on the size and shape of the wood surface, the type of paint you are using, and your personal preference. For example, if you are working with intricate woodwork, brushing may be the best method, while spraying may be more efficient for large surfaces.

3. Color and Finish: 

The color and finish of your wood paint will have a significant impact on the overall appearance of your project. Choose a color and finish that complements the style and décor of your space. Matte or satin finishes are popular for a more natural look, while high-gloss finishes are more modern and can provide a dramatic effect.

4. Drying Time: 

Drying time is an important consideration when choosing wood paint. Some paints dry quickly, which can be an advantage if you need to apply multiple coats or if you are working on a tight deadline. However, quick-drying paints may not provide the same level of adhesion and durability as slower-drying paints. Be sure to choose a paint that dries to a hard, durable finish.

5. Environmental Impact: 

When choosing wood paint, consider the environmental impact of the product. Look for paints that are low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) or VOC-free, which means they contain fewer harmful chemicals. Water-based paints are also an eco-friendly option, as they have a lower impact on the environment than solvent-based paints.

So the final color can be different for each type of wood. Instead of buying the wrong paint in vain and ruining the look of the furniture, it’s better to try a little first. Furniture placement can also affect color choices. If placed in a dark place, choose a light wood paint color. Conversely, if placed in a bright place, choose a dark or neutral color. that are Things You Should Pay Attention to in Choosing Wood Paint, hopefully your wooden furniture will be more beautiful and perfect.

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How to Paint Wood to make it Glossy

How to Paint Wood to make it Glossy

How to Paint Wood to make it Glossy. By following these steps, you can paint wood and make it glossy, creating a beautiful and durable finish that will last for years.

Painting wood and making it glossy requires several steps to ensure a smooth and durable finish. Here are the basic steps to follow:

Sand the wood: Start by sanding the wood to remove any rough spots or old paint. Use a fine-grit sandpaper to ensure a smooth surface. Wipe the wood with a tack cloth or damp rag to remove any dust.

Prime the wood: Apply a coat of wood primer to the surface of the wood. This will help the paint adhere better and prevent it from soaking into the wood.

Apply the paint: Choose a high-quality paint that is suitable for wood surfaces. Apply the paint with a brush, roller, or sprayer in even strokes. Allow the paint to dry completely before applying a second coat.

Sand the surface: Once the second coat of paint has dried, sand the surface with a fine-grit sandpaper to create a smooth and even finish. Wipe the wood with a tack cloth or damp rag to remove any dust.

Apply a clear coat: To make the wood glossy, apply a clear coat of polyurethane or varnish. This will protect the paint and give it a shiny finish. Use a brush to apply the clear coat in even strokes, and allow it to dry completely before applying a second coat.

Sand and buff: After the second coat of clear coat has dried, sand the surface with a fine-grit sandpaper to remove any imperfections. Use a soft cloth or buffing wheel to buff the surface to a high gloss finish.

A few explanations regarding how to paint wood to make it shiny and core care, which can be done to make wood durable. Hope this article helps those of you who are looking for it! How to Paint Wood to make it Glossy

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The Best Types of Wood for Furniture

The Best Types of Wood for Furniture. Wood is one of the most common basic materials used throughout the world, especially for furniture needs, such as children’s wardrobes and wall shelves. Each type of wood has its own characteristics, which in turn can provide a different touch of warmth and add to the overall aesthetics of the interior. The following types of wood are good for furniture use.

  1. Beech Wood

Beech is a type of solid wood that is hard, strong, and heavy. Its appearance is often characterized by lighter colors, from white to light yellow with a dense, fine wood grain and an even texture. Beech wood also has high shock resistance.

As wood for furniture, such as chairs or tables, beech is a type of wood that is popularly used, especially for high-quality furniture with a soft finish and a warm effect. To be durable and not easily dirty, many will provide a layer of protection before use.

  1. Oak wood

It doesn’t take much introduction to the type of oak wood, because oak wood has often been heard even in the ears of ordinary people. Its hard, strong, and durable nature makes it a basic wood material for furniture that can be used for years. The weight of this type of wood is also heavy and does not fade easily, although you have to be careful with water exposure with oak.

This is because the pores of the oak wood tend to be large with distinctive strokes. No wonder many paint the outer layer with polishing paint for protection as well as displaying its beautiful natural aesthetic, for example with duco paint. This type of oak consists of two main colors, namely white oak which is a bit light and red oak with a light reddish brown color.

  1. Maple Wood

The type of maple wood has basic characteristics, namely hard, heavy, and anti-moisture. As basic wood furniture, maple wood can be present for years without experiencing a lot of significant damage. The color of this type of wood is also bright and easy to paint with other colors as a variation of household furniture.

Apart from being the basic material for furniture, maple wood is also most often chosen as a material for musical instruments, such as high-value guitars and wood for drums.

  1. Pine Wood

Pine wood is often an idol for furniture craftsmen because the price is quite affordable. The appearance of this type of wood is generally bright and easily overwritten with other colors. Because of its rather light weight, automatically pine wood is not as strong and as strong as maple or oak wood.

Pine wood is also often used side by side with other types of wood as a cheaper solution for making furniture. Pine wood is also known as Dutch teak or imported used pallet wood and is one of the most favorite recycled materials. Suitable for minimalist-style furniture, maybe you are also a fan of this type of wood.

  1. Teak wood

High prices are synonymous with teak, but also high quality, durability, durability and strength. With a champion durable class, teak wood is also resistant to fungus, weather and even water.

This is because the oil content in teak is high enough so that its strength is very supportive to be used as a furniture material that is really of high value. In fact, this type of wood is also often used as an office desk in the office director’s room.

For processing, teak wood is often produced into furniture, crafts, panels, flooring, and other accessories. This type of wood is also quite easy to process with fiber strokes that have a rustic style impression.

  1. Merbau Wood

Only slightly below teak, Merbau wood with a reddish brown color is often used as a second alternative after teak. Both from an adequate level of hardness, as well as resistance to weather and insects, this type of wood is increasingly being eyed for quality furniture processing. In terms of price, Merbau wood is only slightly adrift of teak, but still quite influential in total.

  1. Mahogany

With smooth and varied wood fibers, mahogany often appears in a natural and classic style that is seductive in every piece of furniture. This type of wood is also often the basic material for Indonesian furniture, in addition to teak. However, compared to teak, mahogany is generally cheaper, making it a more affordable alternative to Indonesia furniture.

Mahogany wood is not as strong and durable as teak. In addition, mahogany is also susceptible to termites or changes easily to the influence of weather and rain. More suitable as an indoor furniture material, this type of wood can be overcome by using mature mahogany wood which has a high fiber density.

The Best Types of Wood for Furniture

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The Best Way for Wooden Furniture Treatment at Home

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The Best Way for Wooden Furniture treatment at Home. Wooden furniture such as mahogany or teak and other are items that add uniqueness and aesthetics to your home. You may still have a wooden armchair from your grandfather that has become an antique in your home. However, you have to take good care of your furniture so that could lasts for generations.

1. Do not store in direct sunlight, wooden furniture has a certain amount of moisture in it. Storing it in direct sunlight will evaporate the moisture and may crack in some areas. In addition, the color can also fade. You also should not place a wooden chair too close to the fireplace if there is a fireplace in your house.

2. Do not be submerged in water. Simple solutions for caring wooden furniture should include this one. Soaking can damage the surface of your furniture. Instead, take warm water and dish soap to clean the furniture. Use a toothbrush for delicate areas. Take a soft damp cloth for the finishing touch.

3. Use coasters and mats. Do not serve drinks and food directly to your wooden table. Irritation marks are too stubborn to be removed. Always use coasters or designer mats before serving anything on a wooden dining table or guest table and so on.

4. Applying wood coating. This is one of the most important solutions for caring for wooden furniture in summer. Soft wood upholstery with superior quality can prevent your furniture from being damaged. Apply a light coat of wood directly and wait 30 minutes. Scrub with a soft brush. Do it again after 60 minutes or so to get that shine.

5. Frequent cleaning Dirt and dust make your furniture itchy. Therefore, you need to clean wooden furniture often. If you have upholstered furniture, vacuum weekly, remove hidden dust and change pillowcases regularly.

6. Do not leave it in the rain. Soaking in rain water is the reason why mold and mildew form on wood. Rotting is another matter. So, always keep your wooden furniture indoors when it rains.

7. Quick repair when you have taken good care of your furniture, some wood furniture may have hairline cracks or the color can be slightly damaged if hit. So, using colored shoe polish can hide those minor blemishes effectively. However, don’t forget to use the same color. The Best Way for Wooden Furniture treatment at Home

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How to prevent mold/fungus grows on wood

How to prevent mold/fungus grows on wood. Fungus is one of the microorganisms that cause the color of wood to change and then cause decay if the quantity is excessive. Because fungus is not able to produce their own food, they depend on several natural materials including leather, cotton, rattan, paper and wood.

In terms of its relationship with wood, there are 4 main requirements before fungi can be grow on wood, namely: oxygen supply, air temperature between 5-38 °C, high humidity and of course the presence of wood. We just have to overcome one of these conditions to prevent the wood on furniture or building construction from getting moldy.
It’s pretty clear that we can’t limit the presence of oxygen around wood because humans need it too.

The air temperature needed by fungus to live is in the same range as humans and other living things. Even some types of mushrooms can live at temperatures below 0 °C. So in this section it is equally difficult to limit. The most effective method is to keep the wood dry. That is why wood must be kiln dried at an MC level of 8-14% before being processed into furniture or other constructions (buildings or bridges). Most fungi begin to live on wood that has an MC level above 20%. Below that level, it is very difficult for the fungus to start spreading.

Furniture
For furniture in the room, with fairly stable air conditions and fairly low humidity, it is still possible to avoid mold, or it can be said that it is easy to prevent the furniture from growing mold. But for outdoor furniture is a challenge in itself. Therefore, outdoor furniture manufacturers must always be careful in choosing the type of wood for outdoor furniture. There are several types of wood that already have natural chemicals in the form of ‘poison’ for fungi so that no fungus can attack even though the 4 conditions mentioned above are met. Examples of types of wood in Indonesia are teak, ebony and ironwood.

However, the availability of this type of wood is also limited because more people need it and the limited time to grow for this type of tree which is at least 30 years old to be cut down and processed into industrial wood.

Laying furniture in the room will also be at risk of being attacked by mold if the room does not have good air ventilation.

Several ways of using chemicals have been widely used today by several factories and sawn wood industries. The disadvantage of this method is the presence of chemicals that can be harmful to furniture users or workers in the factory.

How to prevent mold/fungus grows on wood

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Disadvantages of Sungkai Wood

Disadvantages of Sungkai Wood.

Sungkai wood is good quality wood, although it is not as good as teak or rosewood. However, sungkai wood is considered quite good and is also very liked by the workers, because sungkai wood can be easily worked or processed (shaped and cut) so that they do not experience difficulties when processing it.

In addition, another consideration is the price factor. When compared to the price of wood types such as teak or rosewood, the price of sungkai wood is relatively cheaper so it is more cost effective. And this makes the demand for sungkai wood always increasing from day to day. Making the wood included in the class of commercial wood species in Indonesia.
However, when compared to teak wood, sungkai still has several shortcomings, namely the level of wood hardness. Basically, it is a type of sungkai wood with a very high level of hardness so that the wood is very easy to crack and even break. In addition, another weakness of sungkai wood is that there is no level of durability and strength. This includes the level of wood durability that is not too good and not too strong. Even in the classification issued by the Ministry of Forestry, the durability of sungkai wood is classified as grade III, while its strength is classified as grade II to III. So, it is not recommended for use in places exposed to continuous high intensity sunlight and also using spaces that are in direct contact with the ground (eg used for garden furniture).

Here are several disavantages of using Sungkai Wood.

  1. Not Suitable for Outdoor Use
    Although it has many advantages, it does not mean that this wood does not have disadvantages. One of the drawbacks of this wood is that it is not suitable for outdoor use. For example, this wood is used as raw material for making chairs and will be placed outside the room.

Being outdoors means that the chair will be exposed to the sun continuously. In addition, it will also be exposed to rain water when it rains. Not only that, this wood is also not resistant to termite attacks.

  1. Not Durable and Strong
    Having a durability class III and a strength class II shows that this wood is not a durable and strong wood. This condition makes Sungkai wood unable to withstand the attack of various types of pests, such as fungi, termites and also dirty. Disadvantages of Sungkai Wood
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Advantages of Sungkai Wood

Here are the advantages of using Sungkai Wood.

  1. The first advantage that this wood has is that it has a very good wood grain. The fiber it has is rough and feels rough when touched. The groove of the fiber is in the form of a straight line and regular. This is one of the reasons why this wood was chosen as the raw material for making furniture. The resulting furniture will be more unique if you choose a minimalist concept. The reason is because it will highlight the fiber.
  2. Easy to Process
    The next advantage is that sungkai wood is easy to process. This fact is certainly very beneficial for craftsmen and furniture entrepreneurs. The reason is because it doesn’t take much time to process it. Not only time but no need to spend a lot of energy when processing it into furniture material.
  3. Have a lighter weight
    This type of wood has a lighter weight when compared to the weight of jatu wood and ironwood. Its light weight makes the resulting furniture products easy to move. The manufacturing process is also easier than when using other wood.
  4. Have a Bright Color
    One of the characteristics possessed by sungkai wood is that it is dominated by bright colors. Where the sapwood on this wood is white to pale yellow. While the terrace has a slightly dark color.
    The colors on the sapwood and terraces that are not too contrasting make the resulting furniture need to use transparent colors. This is because the combination of these colors will give the impression of elegance.
  5. Has a fairly high level of violence
    The next advantage of this type of wood is that it has a fairly high level of hardness. Its hard character makes this wood not easily broken, cracked and weathered when used as a material for making furniture.
  6. The price is affordable
    In contrast to teak which is sold at a fairly expensive price, sungkai wood is sold at a more affordable price. It is not surprising that many craftsmen have switched to using this wood as a material for making furniture.

Advantages of Sungkai Wood