Preserving the Past: Heirloom Furniture Repairs and Antique Restoration
There’s something truly special about heirloom furniture. Whether it’s an old rocking chair passed down through generations, a Victorian cabinet tucked in the corner of a room, or a treasured oak dining table that’s been part of family meals for decades, these pieces carry more than just aesthetic value; they hold memories.
At Simons Staircase & Furniture Restoration, we understand how deeply connected people are to their furniture. That’s why we treat every item we restore with the same care and respect as if it were our own. Our heirloom furniture repairs and antique restoration services are designed to bring furniture back to life, helping families across the UK preserve both craftsmanship and memories.
What Makes Heirloom Furniture Worth Restoring?
Heirloom furniture is often crafted using techniques and materials that are hard to find today. From hand-carved legs to dovetail joints and rich wood grains, these pieces speak to a level of skill and attention that stands apart.
Many people hold onto an old chair or table not only because of its look, but also for the history it holds. Restoring it means keeping that slice of history alive. But it isn’t just about looks or memories. Some older pieces are made from stronger, longer-lasting timber than what’s used in much of today’s mass-produced furniture. With the right repairs, these pieces can last for many more generations.
Common Repairs for Antique and Heirloom Furniture
At Simons Staircase & Furniture Restoration, we handle all types of damage. Sometimes it’s a simple job like fixing a scratch. Other times, it’s more complex, such as restoring a broken leg or rebuilding a wobbly structure.
Here are a few of the most common types of repair work we carry out:
Scratches, Dents, and Water Rings
It’s nearly impossible to avoid the little signs of use that come with time, especially on dining tables and chairs. Heat marks from plates or coffee mugs, water rings from cups, and small scratches are all common issues. We smooth and refinish the surface carefully to match the original texture and colour.
Loose Joints and Wobbly Legs
Old glue can dry out, and joints can come loose, especially in chairs. We break down these joints in a controlled way, clean them, and reglue them using traditional materials and methods.
Veneer Repair
Many heirloom pieces use decorative veneers. These thin sheets of fine wood can chip or peel over time. We match the pattern and grain as closely as possible to make sure any new section looks natural.
Missing Parts or Hardware
Handles, knobs, and trims can go missing or break. When this happens, we try to source period-appropriate replacements. If that’s not possible, we handcraft new parts that match the original as closely as possible.
Finish Restoration
Over the years, polished finishes can dull, crack, or flake. We strip and reapply traditional finishes such as French polish or wax, respecting what was originally used.
We invite you to look at some of our completed work on the Before & After page. You can see the dramatic difference our careful repairs make.
Traditional Techniques Meet Thoughtful Repairs
At Simons Staircase & Furniture Restoration, we believe that if something worked well 150 years ago, there’s good reason to continue those techniques today. Whenever possible, we use traditional joinery and finishes, meaning your piece will not only feel right, but genuinely reflect the time period it came from.
We use animal glue when restoring certain antiques, as it has been used for centuries and allows for retreatment in the future. For finishes, our team is skilled in French polish, the classic shellac-based method that was popular in the 18th and 19th centuries.
We also understand that not everyone wants a piece to look brand new. Our aim is always to honour the history of the furniture. That might mean leaving small marks that tell its story, while strengthening and beautifying it in a way that respects its age.
How We Approach Every Piece
Every job starts with a proper assessment. We talk with the owner to understand the history of the piece, how it’s been used, and what they hope the final result will be. Some people want their heirloom to shine like it just left the workshop, while others prefer a lighter touch that preserves more of the wear from generations past.
Then, we prepare a detailed plan. We focus on safety first, making sure the structure is strong and stable. Next, we work on surface and cosmetic issues, making repairs as needed and refinishing carefully. Finally, we add protective finishes to help guard against future damage.
You can browse our project gallery to see the attention we bring to every piece.
Caring for Restored Furniture
Once your furniture has been restored, looking after it well can help it last for many years to come. Here are a few quick tips:
- Keep it out of direct sunlight if possible, to prevent fading.
- Use coasters and mats to prevent heat and ring marks.
- Avoid silicone-based sprays and polishes, which can break down finishes over time.
- Dust regularly with a soft cloth.
- If it’s a moving part, like a drawer, use it gently and check for sticking.
Our team is always happy to share advice on how to give your piece the best care at home.
Not Just Furniture: Staircases Too
True to our name, we also specialise in staircases. Just like furniture, wooden staircases can suffer from creaks, looseness, wear, and warping over the years. Maybe your home has a grand old staircase that’s become unsafe underfoot or needs parts replaced. We put the same level of care into every spindle and tread as we do into chairs and tables.
At Simons Staircase & Furniture Restoration, we’ve brought back life to many tired-looking staircases while keeping their character fully intact. We use strong wood, traditional methods, and a careful hand to make them safe, attractive, and in keeping with your home’s history.
Heirloom Furniture in Modern Homes
Restored antique pieces don’t just belong in country homes or cottages. They can add beauty to modern homes, too. A well-cared-for wooden desk or set of chairs brings warmth and texture to spaces full of modern materials like glass and steel.
In fact, many of our customers ask us to adapt older furniture slightly, to resize, reupholster, or give a fresh finish in a new tone, while keeping the original charm. With a thoughtful hand, it’s entirely possible to give a piece a new lease on life so that it fits comfortably in today’s homes.
FAQs
How long does a typical restoration take?
It depends on the damage, but most jobs take between one and six weeks. Some complex restorations with high detail might take longer, and we always discuss this at the start.
Can you repair cracks or splits in wood?
Yes, we carefully fill, reinforce, or splice these areas depending on the type of timber and crack size. We carry out each step so the repair matches the rest.
Do you offer pick-up and delivery?
Yes, we offer collection and return for most areas across the UK, especially for larger items.
Is all antique furniture restorable?
Nearly all of it can be improved. In rare cases, some damage might be so severe that major parts need replacing. We always explain this clearly before starting.
Can I bring in something that’s not old, but just well-loved?
Absolutely. While antique furniture is our focus, we’re happy to help with newer high-quality pieces, too, when they hold personal or family value.
Where Past and Present Meet
If you’ve got a piece of furniture with a story to tell, we’d love to help bring it back to life.
At Simons Staircase & Furniture Restoration, we believe in patience, respect, and skill. We treat each project with care, knowing that furniture is more than wood and nails; it’s where families gather, memories are made, and history is passed down.
So whether it’s a Georgian chest, a 1950s sideboard, or a staircase that’s seen generations climb up and down, we take pride in making it sturdy and beautiful once again.
Feel free to get inspired by the transformations in our before-and-after gallery and reach out when you’re ready.
Let’s work together to restore your cherished furniture and preserve the stories it holds.
