Storing Wooden Furniture In Winter

Everyone knows that cold weather isn’t good for their bodies, but not everyone thinks about the damage winter can do to their furniture. In keeping with trends, you may be considering putting several of your furnishings into storage while you explore different interior decorations. However, with these dropping temperatures, you must be sure that your beautiful wooden furnishings such as this beautiful dining server and this elegant entertainment center are kept somewhere warm and dry.

What happens when wood gets too cold?

Because wood is an organic substance, it contains a certain amount of water. Even after it goes through the processes of being dried out, sanded, and varnished, there will always remain even the tiniest amount of moisture. When the weather becomes cold, the moisture inside the wood freezes and expands. Once the weather cools down again, the water will melt and contract. This back and forth between expansion and contraction causes cracks and visible wear in the surface of the furniture. The effect of water on wood is especially important to realize in southeast Texas due to the great amount of humidity in this area. Low humidity can cause cracks in the wood while high humidity may cause the wood to swell.

What storage facilities should I use?

The ideal storage space is climate-controlled and easily accessible for check-ups as well as easy placement and removal of items. If you live in a home with a heated garage or shed with extra space, these would work perfectly. While temperatures tend to fluctuate more within these establishments than your home, you still have great control over your furniture’s environment even during the coldest months of the year.  You can also rest well knowing that your furniture is only a peek away.

For those who live in apartments and smaller abodes, sometimes the only option is off-site storage. While you don’t have as much control over these facilities as your own property, there are precautions you can take to make sure your furniture is well-taken care of over the winter months. As mentioned above, be absolutely certain that the storage facilities are climate-controlled. Another aspect to consider is first floor or second floor storage. While first floor storage is more convenient, in the case of a flood or other damage done to the building, second floor storage is generally safer. On this note, most public storage facilities will offer you their insurance, sometimes aggressively. Before purchasing their insurance, check and double check with your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance and see if off-site storage is covered, as most insurance policies do cover these amenities.

What else can I do to protect my wooden valuables?

The first step to keeping furniture safe and warm in storage happens before it leaves your home. Be sure you clean your wooden items thoroughly and wait for them to dry before saying goodbye to them for the winter. Any excess dirt or moisture can lead to cracks and warping of the wood. Next, be sure to cover your furniture in sheets or drop cloths to protect it from dirt, dust, and moisture. While plastic coverings are popular, they can ultimately lead to the onset of mold or mildew, especially during the cold season. Finally, be very careful when moving your wooden pieces to their storage spot. Wood is a sensitive material—nicks and dings occur quite easily.

At Bel Furniture, we offer you quality furniture during every season. Come check us out over the holidays to see our incredible furniture deals. With locations in Houston, San Antonio, and all over Texas, we are your one-stop shop for furnishings. To learn more about deals and tips, take a look at our other blog posts.