Maintaining Your Millwork: Care Tips for Longevity

At Manchester Millwork in Manchester, Connecticut, we know that millwork—like custom crown molding, cabinetry, or wainscoting—is more than just décor; it’s an investment in timeless craftsmanship. Whether you’re in Manchester, West Hartford, Wethersfield, or Glastonbury, keeping your wood features in top shape ensures they stay beautiful for years. Here’s our expert guide to cleaning, refinishing, and protecting your millwork, straight from our Manchester shop to your home.

1. Cleaning: Keep It Simple and Gentle

Dust and grime can dull the rich tones of your millwork, whether it’s in a cozy Wethersfield colonial or a modern Glastonbury home. Regular cleaning preserves its charm without harm.

Dust Weekly: Grab a soft microfiber cloth or feather duster to wipe away surface dust. Skip abrasive tools that might scratch your Manchester Millwork masterpiece.
Mild Soap Solution: Mix a few drops of gentle dish soap with warm water. Dampen—not soak—a cloth and wipe lightly. Too much water can damage wood, a lesson we’ve learned crafting pieces for West Hartford clients.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Say no to ammonia or bleach unless it’s wood-safe. These can ruin finishes, something we avoid in our Manchester, CT workshop.
Dry Immediately: Follow up with a dry cloth to keep moisture at bay—crucial for homes across Hartford County.

Pro Tip: For detailed millwork in Glastonbury’s historic homes, use a soft brush (like an old toothbrush) to clean crevices gently.

2. Refinishing: Restore the Shine

Fading or scratched millwork? Refinishing can revive it, whether it’s a piece we’ve crafted in Manchester or an older feature in West Hartford. Here’s how:

Assess the Damage: Check for scratches or peeling varnish. Minor fixes might just need a touch-up, while worn pieces may call for a full refinish.
Sanding Basics: Use fine-grit sandpaper (220-grit or higher) and sand with the grain. Our Manchester Millwork team swears by this for a smooth result.
Choose the Right Finish: Match the original—polyurethane for toughness, lacquer for gloss, or oil stains for natural beauty. Test it first, a trick we use for Wethersfield projects.
Apply Evenly: Brush or wipe on thin coats, letting each dry fully. Two to three layers usually do it, perfect for Glastonbury’s high-end interiors.
Buff for Perfection: Polish with a soft cloth or ultra-fine steel wool for that Manchester Millwork shine.

When to Call Us: Unsure about your wood type or finish? Contact Manchester Millwork in Manchester, CT—we serve West Hartford, Wethersfield, and beyond with expert advice.

3. Protecting: Shield Against Wear and Tear

Connecticut’s seasons can test your millwork, from Manchester’s snowy winters to Glastonbury’s humid summers. Protect it with these tips:

Control Humidity: Wood shifts with moisture. Keep indoor humidity at 35-55% with a humidifier or dehumidifier—vital for West Hartford’s older homes.
Limit Sun Exposure: UV rays fade wood, a concern for Wethersfield’s sunlit rooms. Use blinds or UV film to shield your millwork.
Use Coasters and Pads: Protect cabinetry or shelves with coasters or felt pads, a must for busy Glastonbury kitchens featuring our custom work.
Polish Sparingly: A wood-safe polish or beeswax adds protection, but limit it to once or twice a year. We recommend this for Manchester Millwork pieces across the region.
Watch for Pests: Inspect for termites, especially in damp basements from Manchester to West Hartford. Eco