How to look after your wood veneer

After taking so much time to make a treasured object using a wood veneer, it’s equally important to know how to care for it in the long term. 

The majority of all real wood veneers, including those that have been manufactured with specific properties such as CubeFlex, are all susceptible to damage.

Whilst scuffs and scratches can be treated and filled, damage can also arise from heat, moisture and the sun.

How to treat scuffs and scratches…

Marks that appear on your veneer furniture can be easily disguised. Firstly, clean the veneer surface with mild soapy warm water to remove any dirt, wax or silicone deposits.

For minor marks and small scratches, rub a high-quality furniture polish onto the veneer using a soft cloth, until the scratch is no longer visible.

For deeper scratches or gouges, it may be necessary to use a wax filler or coloured crayon, specifically designed to repair wood. Here at The Wood Veneer Hub, we sell a variety of wood filler sticks and are always on hand to offer advice, should you need it.

Caring for your veneer…

The sun, moisture and heat can all cause damage, so it is always best to protect the veneer surface against these elements, where possible.

Damage caused by the sun…

It may seem logical, but if a wood veneer is exposed to direct sunlight over a period of time, the chances are the surface will be subject to fading. Whilst this fading might be subtle and gradual, there will be more obvious marks if an object has been left on the surface, in the direct sunlight for a long period, then the object is removed.

Ideally, avoid putting a veneered item in front of a window or in direct sunlight, but if this cannot be avoided, ensure that the window has curtains or a blind to deflect the light.

Damage caused by moisture…

Remove any spillages from the veneer surface as soon as possible, as if left, liquids can seep through the veneer and lift it from the surface to which it’s adhered to. Rather than using a sponge, which will only spread the liquid, use a paper towel or a clean dishcloth and dry thoroughly.

Where a table has been veneered, always protect the surface from watermarks caused by glasses or crockery, by using placemats and coasters.

Damage caused by heat…

Much like moisture, heat can transfer onto the surface, causing the veneer to lift. Protect the surface where necessary by using a heatproof mat to act as a barrier and help protect the surface.

Obviously, accidents do happen from time to time, so if your veneer surface does become damaged, please do get in touch for any help or advice.

After all, wood is our specialist subject!