No matter how strong the antique lighting, there come a time when it will break or fade in color. You can still restore them instead of throwing them away. With some knowledge of restoration, you can use them again for your home. Since you have invested in these rare lights, why not keep them for your posterity.
Depending on the degree of damage, adhesives have proven itself in vintage lighting repair. When I say adhesives, the first thing that you think of is glue. Glue can put two broken parts together again. You also need to factor in the humidity especially if these fixtures are made of wood. As they age, the humidity will weaken the wooden structure.
Glue may not be a good solution if the materials used for the lights are made of other substances besides wood. Nevertheless, it does help in restoring rare lighting and fixture that are made of wood.
As far as vintage lighting repair is concerned, you also need to familiarize with different types of glues. Some does not need any pressure when in contact with the surfaces. Others may need a certain amount of pressure before they can bond the two surfaces completely. Never use brands that are unheard off. Established brands of glues are the ones you should use. Always read the instruction first before you apply them on your classical lamps or fixtures.
You may need to use slow-setting glues for some lighting repairs. This kind of glue require more time for the binding to take place. You may need to clamp both pieces together for a certain period of time.
Choosing the right glue for the repair can never be overlooked. For example, you don't use synthetic glues because they are very poor in lasting especially of the lighting items need to endure pressure when in display. For brass, you can use epoxy resins. They usually come in two tubes. You must mix both of them before using.
As you can see, knowing which adhesives to use for the antique lighting repair is important. Each material uses different kind of glue. You can't the same glue which you use on wood for alabaster. Therefore, don't assume if you don't know because it will make your rare possession in the worst shape than before. If you are not careful, then the whole piece will not able to be restored.
Friday, April 4, 2008
Antique Lighting Repair
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Antique Lighting Cleaning Tips
If you are collecting antique lighting whether for fun or profit, then you need to know how to maintain it by proper cleaning. Maintenance will protect the historical items from damage and help to increase its value. usually, a vintage light that is in good condition will fetch a better price than a similar one which is not properly maintained.
In this post, you will learn how to maintain the rare lighting such as lamps, shades, candlebra and chandeliers and keep them in good condition.
Do you know the right ways to care your collectibles? When you buy any old table lamps or sconces, always check with the sellers on the proper maintenance techniques. Request for a written instruction on how to clean them. You can check on the Internet for more advice. You also need to know that some of the rare possession may require constant cleaning to keep them burnished. Others may not need any cleaning at all but they will remain in good condition.
Antique lighting come in many groups. You will have lamps, chandeliers, candlebra, sconces, astrals, argands, sinumbras, and girandoles. Each of these items require different kinds of care. Moreover, they use different material for the construction. Having this knowledge will help you to use the right cleaning method for a particular masterpiece. In addition, you will also know how to keep them properly so that their value can increase.
If the classical lighting or fixture is made of ceramic, you can clean it with lukeware or warm water and a mild soap. For those that have painted features, you can wipe them with just a damp cloth.
For brass lighting, you can mix flour, vinegar and salt together and form them into a paste. Rub the mixture gently with a soft cloth on the items. Patina is another good choice.
On the wooden areas, clean them by making a solution of water, bleach, and detergent. This will prevent the growth of mildew. If you want to get rid of sticky stuff, apply hot water and a lemon juice on it.
Some rare lighting item are made of bronze. Never use patina as white spots will form on the surface and this will bring down the value of the prized items. Instead, clean them with a damp cloth that has been soaked in water and soap.
General knowledge such as categories and materials on the antique lighting proves to be very useful. Maintenance and cleaning procedures depends on how much you know about them. You can destroy their value if you use the wrong techniques.
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