Timber Table Top Cleaning & Maintenance

October 25th, 2016

Timber table tops are a popular choice for residential and commercial use for both indoors and outdoors. Nothing can match the natural character, beauty and warmth of timber and it requires special care and maintenance in order to maintain its original finish and beauty.

Instyle Seating provides two type of timber finish on our timber table tops, depending on where the timber table tops are to be used. For all indoor tables, the timber is finished in matt 2 pac polyurethane. All outside tables are finished in an oil finish.

INDOOR TIMBER FURNITURE FINISHED WITH TWO PACK POLYURETHANE

For timber table tops finished in 2-pac polyurethane, direct exposure to sunlight should be avoided as the ultraviolet rays of the sun can and will damage the polish and discolour the timber.

Timber ages over time and darkening and deepening of the timber tones is natural. For the tops to age evenly, it is important that the entire top is uniformly exposed to light.
For general cleaning, dust furniture regularly with a soft, damp cloth and dry with a soft, dry cloth.

It is important not to saturate the timber surface with moisture during cleaning. During use, it is also important to clean up any spills or splashes with a towel immediately, as excessive water can cause swelling, warping and staining as it penetrates the finish.

In cleaning the tops, it is important that non-abrasive, solvent-free neutral PH cleaning products only are used. Harsh chemicals and any solvent or ammonia based cleaners will damage the surface and void any warranty. Avoid the use of strong detergents, glass cleaners and silicone based products, such as Mr Sheen and Windex.

If in doubt, always test a cleaner on an unseen section of the top such as the underside edge.

Avoid excessive exposure to steam and heat, as this can also cause unsightly marks and can damage the polyurethane coating. If possible, always use coasters and protection under any hot items.

INDOOR AND OUTDOOR TIMBER FURNITURE FINISHED WITH OIL

For use outdoors, timber tops must be treated with an oil finish. The oil finish helps to protect the wood from the elements, as well as helping to prevent irregular stains from seeping into the timber.

Timber tops finished in an oil finish do need to be re-oiled on a regular basis. The frequency of which will depend on how harsh the climate is and on the owner’s personal preference as to the appearance of the timber tops.

Prior to re-oiling, the tops need to be cleaned and dried. Please follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to use the wood oil.

For general cleaning, oiled tops also need to be treated the same as lacquered table tops. They should be cleaned regularly with a soft, damp cloth.

All cleaning products should be non-abrasive, solvent-free neutral PH cleaning products. Harsh chemicals or any solvent or ammonia based cleaners will reduce the life and appearance of the oiled finish. Avoid the use of strong detergents, glass cleaners and silicone-based products, such as Mr Sheen and Windex on oiled tables.

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