SPECIALIST RESTORATION – Valued Yet Unseen –
– Exceeding Every Expectation – Every requirement for restoration involves hope that the original beauty and functionality of a piece can be restored. For over 40 years, Farcroft has applied highly-specialised skills to restore all types of valuable or irreplaceable items, always meeting if not exceeding our customers’ expectations. Steady growth now sees Farcroft established as the leading source for restoration, working from our central UK premises in the West Midlands. Operating nationwide, our craftsmanship is respected by the most discerning collectors and many eminent auctioneers. The convenience of a single restoration source, offering exceptional workmanship and efficient workflow management, forms the core of a market offering that our customers rely on.
Approaching Every Piece Individually Serving Many Markets
Pages 4-5 Pages 6-10
Fine Art Restoration
Pages 11-37
Fine Furnishings Restoration
Pages 38-63
Wood Flooring & Fixtures
Pages 64-79
Stone Flooring & Fixtures
Pages 80-83
Index
Pages 84-85
Working With Farcroft
Pages 86-87
– Approaching Every Piece Individually – The scope of our expertise means that we can handle extensive damage caused by flood, fire or accidents, equally as well as restoration of a single prized possession. Whether coming to us as part of a bulk lot or on its own, every piece is given the same careful consideration and dedicated workmanship to achieve the best results. Based on an initial inspection, each piece is assigned to the appropriate craftsman who will employ techniques that replicate the original finish. This individual approach has seen many items that were thought to be beyond repair, fully restored to the customer’s satisfaction. •
Individual assessment of every piece
•
Dedicated craftsmen assigned to each job
•
Restoration of items thought to be irreparable
SFerving ine Furnishings Many Markets Restoration
6
– Heritage Collection Solutions – Farcroft has considerable experience working with heritage organisations providing collection care and conservation support to museums, galleries, libraries, archives and other heritage collections, to maintain and preserve artefacts from deterioration and damage. In addition to practical conservation, Farcroft provides a range of other services:
Collection Care Whilst many museums and heritage trusts have their own in-house conservation teams, we provide an external solution for those without the necessary skills.
Damage Restoration Many historic houses and collections are open to the public or used for filming, conferences or other hospitality events, so there is always a risk of accidental or malicious damage. Where items are broken, Farcroft can provide a full service to repair and restore objects to their pre-incident condition.
Condition Surveys and Consultancy Farcroft can provide full collection surveys to provide an overview of the condition of items, providing a Conservation Report detailing the condition assessment, with recommendations and priorities for treatment to enable effective targeting of funds.
www.farcroftuk.com | Tel: 01922 458555 | Email: enquiries@farcroftuk.com
Serving Many Markets
7
– Private Client Solutions – Over the years, we have worked for many private clients to restore and conserve a wide variety of prized possessions. Items deteriorate over the years, so where a piece has become jaded, Farcroft can provide a comprehensive restoration service to repair damages and revitalise the previous lustre. Accidents do happen, so if your personal effects are not covered by insurance or the excess cost is likely to exceed repair costs, contact us to discuss your requirements in more detail. Other services which may be of interest are:
Valuation Service Farcroft provides valuations for insurance, probate or investment services.
Damage Prevention Service Rather than risk damage to prized possessions, Farcroft Logistics provides a specialist service for handling, packing, transportation and display of sensitive high value items such as chandeliers, longcase clocks, pianos and fine art pieces.
12-month Workmanship Guarantee Restoration work is covered by Farcroft’s 12-month Workmanship Guarantee providing full assurance as to the quality of our workmanship and your total satisfaction.
Specialist Restoration: Valued Yet Unseen
Serving Many Markets
8
– Insurance Client Solutions – Farcroft works extensively with the insurance sector, providing a dependable restoration service and maintaining a quality that delivers consistent policyholder satisfaction. We recognise that alongside quality of craftsmanship, efficient and straightforward processes are required to facilitate smooth fulfilment of claims requirements. The Farcroft service is based on this, and maintains transparency and effective communication at all times. Every client’s organisation is unique, so we tailor our service to fit your needs, providing a comprehensive cradle-to-grave solution or selected services to best meet your requirements. A few examples are listed as follows:
www.farcroftuk.com | Tel: 01922 458555 | Email: enquiries@farcroftuk.com
9
Serving Many Markets
Valuation Service Farcroft provides a range of valuation services to insurers, from desktop assistance to on-site visits.
Damage Evaluation Service Farcroft has a nationwide team of inspectors who can visit policyholders to inspect and photograph damage to items, and provide a report detailing the value of each item, extent of damage and costs, methods and viability of restoration.
Emergency Removal Service For fire, flooding, EOW or complex losses, Farcroft can be appointed at FNOL / triage stage for emergency removal of contents. The Farcroft Logistics team will remove contents out of unstable environments to prevent further deterioration. Inventories are produced, with each item listed and photographed, prior to being professionally packed and uplifted for storage.
Secure Storage To facilitate drying or building reinstatement works, contents can be removed to the Farcroft storage centre, ensuring the safety and security of valued possessions.
Damage Prevention Service Farcroft Logistics provides a proactive service for handling, packing, transportation and display of sensitive high value items such as chandeliers, longcase clocks, pianos and fine art pieces.
Customer Service and MI Reporting To support insurance partners, we would designate an account manager and internal contact to focus on your claims, operating to set SLA’s to ensure we meet your expectations. In addition, we offer a number of training and support initiatives.
12-month Workmanship Guarantee Restoration work is covered by Farcroft’s 12-month Workmanship Guarantee providing reassurance to both policyholders and insurers.
Specialist Restoration: Valued Yet Unseen
Serving Many Markets
10
– Commercial Client Solutions – Farcroft provides a full range of restoration and repair services to commercial clients and organisations, including hotels, restaurants, retailers, churches, schools, leisure centres, corporate offices, facilities managers, building contractors, architects and interior designers. Rather than replacing items which have become jaded through age or constant use, Farcroft always looks to extend the life, beauty and functionality of a piece, to save wasting money on costly and unnecessary replacement.
On-site solutions Work for commercial clients is mostly carried out on-site. Being able to offer an array of surface finishes allows us not only to repair timber but also touch out evidence of damages to many other types of hard surface.
No-obligation Assessment and Quotation Our regional surveyors are able to visit site to assess your requirements and then provide a quotation, advising on the best solution to meet your needs.
Damage Prevention Service Rather than risk damage to high value items, Farcroft Logistics provides a proactive service for handling, packing, transportation and display of sensitive and awkward items such as chandeliers, longcase clocks, pianos and fine art pieces.
www.farcroftuk.com | Tel: 01922 458555 | Email: enquiries@farcroftuk.com
– Conservation & Restoration – Reference Guide
– Solutions for Fine Art & Collectables – Bringing back the former attractiveness of historic or modern works of art and collectables is both personally rewarding and a valuable service to future generations. Farcroft has provided specialist conservation and restoration since 1968, applying carefully selected methodology to all requirements.
– Fine Art & Collectables – Oil Painting Conservation
Page 14
Oil Painting Restoration
Page 14
Painted Screen Restoration
Page 16
Canvas Restoration
Page 16
Watercolour Restoration
Page 18
Etching Restoration
Page 19
Photograph & Print Restoration
Page 20
Document & Book Restoration
Page 20
Frame Restoration
Page 23
Gilding Restoration
Page 23
Mirror Restoration
Page 24
Modern Art Restoration
Page 25
Woven Art & Textile Restoration
Page 26
Restoration of Collectables
Page 26
Brass Restoration
Page 29
Bronze Restoration
Page 29
Copper Restoration
Page 30
Silver Restoration
Page 30
Ceramics Restoration
Page 32
Ceramics Cleaning & Conservation
Page 32
Ceramics Breakage Repairs
Page 34
Colour Enhancement Re-glazing & Gilding
Page 35
Ivory Restoration
Page 36
Glass Restoration
Page 36
Fine Art & Collectables
14
– Oil Painting Conservation – Oil paintings need constant attention. Left untreated they will gradually deteriorate through temperature changes, humidity, UV exposure, excess light, direct heat, dust and various airborne particles which slowly destroy works of art in different ways. Typical damages are dirt accumulation, cracking and paint layer loss. These damages become more severe if left untreated and can lead to near destruction of artwork. Nearly all work involves inspecting structural integrity, and if necessary structurally reinforcing the artwork. The removal of dirt and varnish is carried out with solvents and other mild chemicals. Because dirt gathers very slowly on the surface of a picture, it is surprising the difference even surface cleaning can make. Minor bumps and dents in the canvas support and small areas of cracking can be treated using patch repair techniques or by lining the painting onto a new canvas to provide added support into the future.
– Oil Painting Restoration – Where more serious damage has been sustained to oil paintings, through flood, fire or accidental damage, conservation methods are used to clean and stabilise the affected areas to prevent any further deterioration. Canvas damage restoration and re-lining work is carried out to regain the necessary structural support. All retouching work is done within the varnish layer, using pure powdered pigments. The retouchings are built up as the varnish is, and the paint medium used in the restoration is therefore the same varnish as the one coating the finished picture. This enables the added material to be easily removed if required in the future, a basic principle of modern conservation. When retouching paint, our aim is always to disguise if possible rather than cover over, using the minimum touches of paint, and the fewest number of pigments in the mix. We use top quality varnishes to protect the work.
www.farcroftuk.com | Tel: 01922 458555 | Email: enquiries@farcroftuk.com
15
Fine Art & Collectables
Specialist Restoration: Valued Yet Unseen
Fine Art & Collectables
16
– Painted Screen Restoration – Folding screens originated in China, dating back to the Han dynasty. These sophisticated pieces of furniture were made in a wide range of sizes, from extremely large folding screens for use in palaces, to miniature decorative screens that could comfortably fit on a table top. Painted screens are formed often using leather or canvas panels tensioned over a hinged frame. There is much diversity in the styles and illustrations, from traditional Chinese and Japanese artworks to 18th century European designs. We clean, conserve and restore painted screens and strengthen or replace metal hinges to retain the functionality of a privacy screen.
– Canvas Restoration – Printed canvas wall art is now readily available at exceptionally low prices due to print development over the last few years. However, hand painted canvases are irreplaceable with a higher residual value based on age and style. Canvases are more exposed to accidental damage than framed art pieces. The removal of dirt and varnish is carried out with solvents and other mild chemicals. Because dirt gathers very slowly on the surface of a picture, even surface cleaning can make a surprising difference. Where tear damage has occurred, it is possible to re-line the canvas to provide necessary structural support. When retouching paint, our aim is always to disguise if possible rather than cover over, using the minimum touches of paint. We use a range of top quality varnishes to protect the work.
www.farcroftuk.com | Tel: 01922 458555 | Email: enquiries@farcroftuk.com
17
Fine Art & Collectables
Specialist Restoration: Valued Yet Unseen
Fine Art & Collectables
18
– Watercolour Restoration – Works of art on paper appear in almost every private or public collection and cover a vast range, both in subject matter and value. Where watercolours have been damaged, we can advise on appropriate treatments and provide recommendations for on-going care. The condition of both the paper and image can normally be stabilised so that their deterioration is slowed. Whilst most damage can be corrected, taking into account the history of the piece and value, it is sometimes not possible to entirely remove evidence of severe staining. Fragile or wrinkled paper can be re-mounted to provide additional structural support. Mending and retouching can be carried out to disguise tears or missing areas, using liquid paper pulp for infilling.
– Our Advice – Works of art should be handled with great care without touching the paper or image. This will prevent colour transfer and smudging.
www.farcroftuk.com | Tel: 01922 458555 | Email: enquiries@farcroftuk.com
Fine Art & Collectables
19
– Etching Restoration – In addition to watercolours, Farcroft also specialises in the conservation and restoration of graphic works on paper – commonly referred to as etchings. Treatments vary according to the cause and extent of damage. Weak, brittle and acidic mounting boards are one of the major causes of deterioration. Where the artwork has been mounted, we can remove aged or acidic mount boards which may have been glued or pasted to the artwork. Surface dirt, general discolouration, and stains can be sensitively removed using dry methods or water based mild bleaching solutions. If necessary, fragile or wrinkled paper can be pasted onto a light paper to provide additional structural support. Mending and retouching can be carried out to disguise tears or missing areas, using liquid paper pulp for infilling. Artworks can be remounted onto high quality, acid-free board and fitted to existing or new conservation standard frames.
Specialist Restoration: Valued Yet Unseen
Fine Art & Collectables
20
– Photograph & Print Restoration – The heartache of losing photos from the past is hard to describe, but the good news is, these precious keepsakes may still be salvaged. Even if a photograph or important document is completely soaked, providing action is taken quickly, it can be saved. Be careful not to touch the fragile surface of wet photographs or stack them together. Do not place the items in a plastic bag as sealing damp items accelerates mould formation and other forms of deterioration.
– Document & Book Restoration – Farcroft can recover and restore most types of paper documents, from single sheets to entire library collections. Paper is fairly durable in most circumstances, but contact with moisture quickly causes damage as paper begins to swell, becomes distorted and tacky, discolours and if left unattended bacteria multiplies and forms mould. Using the very latest processes, including vacuum freeze drying, we can extract the water from your documents. Documents can be sensitively cleaned, sanitised and de-odourised. Paper can be smoothed and reconditioned in such a way that in most cases, the client is unable to detect that a document was once damaged.
www.farcroftuk.com | Tel: 01922 458555 | Email: enquiries@farcroftuk.com
21
Fine Art & Collectables
– Our Advice – Make sure not to place wet photos in direct sunlight or under direct heat as it may dry the photo or document too quickly causing splits, buckling and other irreversible damage.
Specialist Restoration: Valued Yet Unseen
Fine Art & Collectables
22
– Our Advice – The appearance of cracks in the gilded finish is a common sign of ageing and not normally a cause for concern
www.farcroftuk.com | Tel: 01922 458555 | Email: enquiries@farcroftuk.com
Fine Art & Collectables
23
– Frame Restoration – As part of our service, we can offer a complete package to restore both your picture and its frame, and present them back to you, ready to hang, in pristine gallery condition. Where elements of the frame are missing or irreparable, we can carry out specialist wood and gesso carving before re-finishing to the original style to maintain authentic value. Frames can be strengthened to provide sufficient structural support and stability. We can replace glass to match the period of the piece, for example, antique glass has imperfections such as ripples and small air bubbles. Damage to the finish can be rectified using gilding, oriental lacquers, french polishing or other techniques to match the original finishing style. We also carry a stock of reproduction antique and contemporary frames and can advise you on a suitable frame to match the age and style of your painting.
– Gilding Restoration – Dating back to ancient civilisation, gilding is a process used to overlay furniture and other objects with pressed sheets of metal to convey the appearance of solid gold or other precious metals. Typically damage is from scratches, abrasions or staining from contact with water, solvents or residual deposits such as soot. Gold leaf wear is apparent when the clay bole layer (often a red shade) starts to appear through the worn leaf. The appearance of cracks in the gilded finish is a common sign of ageing and not normally a cause for concern. If the gold or gesso layer is loose or lifting, this may indicate the gilding layers are delaminating from the substrate. Gilding tends to be applied to intricate decorative pieces which are prone to impact damage. Where elements of the piece are broken, missing or irreparable, we can create replacement wood and gesso carving, ranging from the simplest mouldings to the most elaborate furniture and ornaments. We carry out both water and oil gilding using gold or silver leaf. All new surfaces are toned to blend in with the original finishes elsewhere on the piece.
Specialist Restoration: Valued Yet Unseen
Fine Art & Collectables
24
– Mirror Restoration – Mirrors have a long history of use both as household objects and as articles of decoration. Farcroft can provide new mirrors, cut and bevelled to match the original shape. For 18-19th century mirrors, reproduction antique glass is sourced and silvered using traditional methods to retain the authentic value. Antique mirrors have imperfection features such as surface ripples, small air bubbles and uneven bevelling. Silver backing is prone to moisture deterioration. This can be rectified by resilvering the mirror. Subject to the depth of penetration, it is possible to polish out surface abrasion to the front surface of a mirror. Where elements of the frame are missing or damaged, we can carry out intricate wood and gesso carving to replicate the original style. Frames can be repaired and strengthened to provide additional structural support and stability. We have capabilities to restore damage to a wide range of finishes including gilding, hand finished lacquers, marquetry inlays, painted decorations and porcelain.
www.farcroftuk.com | Tel: 01922 458555 | Email: enquiries@farcroftuk.com
Fine Art & Collectables
25
– Modern Art Restoration – Art pieces have embraced the changes and development of new materials in recent times resulting in some iconic pieces. This brings fresh challenges for restoration with the inclusion and mixture of synthetic and natural materials. Each item is carefully inspected to identify the raw materials and finishes used. These can be extremely varied and in some cases are incompatible and highly degradable. Cleaning, repairs and restoration requires the knowledge of the chemical formulation of both natural and synthetic materials so as to use compatible chemicals and processes for cleaning and bonding purposes. Based on the initial inspection, each piece is assigned to the appropriate craftsmen. If required, in-depth treatment reports can be provided together with digital images to show the different stages from beginning to end of restoration.
Specialist Restoration: Valued Yet Unseen
Fine Art & Collectables
26
– Woven Art & Textile Restoration – It is the extraordinary diversity of styles, designs, history and colours that make textiles such a desirable art form. We provide a specialist cleaning and restoration service for tapestries, rugs, carpets, needlework, embroidery panels, lace, samplers, cushions and indeed many other textile based art pieces and collectables. The physical process of cleaning or washing textiles can damage them. Every time a textile is washed, it suffers a degree of loss as broken or loose fibres are rinsed away. This underlines the importance of correct methods being used to prevent shrinkage or colour transfer. We can repair tear or snag damage using original weaving techniques to revive pieces damaged by accident. Stains, odour and residue can be removed to return the piece back to its initial beauty.
– Restoration of Collectables – Previously sidelined in general auction sales, the ‘collectables’ market has boomed and transformed into the broadest collecting category we know. The rise in internet trading has eroded the exclusivity of auctions and opened up a global collectables arena. Signed memorabilia from celebrities, and childhood toys and keepsakes have added a new dimension to collections. Fire, flood and other damage to such items need careful attention to preserve and restore the item to its former lustre for the benefit of oncoming generations. Cleaning and restoration requires the knowledge of the chemical formulation of these materials so as to use compatible chemicals for cleaning and bonding purposes. Farcroft can clean, stabilise and repair damaged items to prevent further deterioration and retain the value and authenticity of the piece.
www.farcroftuk.com | Tel: 01922 458555 | Email: enquiries@farcroftuk.com
27
Fine Art & Collectables
– Our Advice – Every time a textile is washed, it suffers a degree of loss as broken or loose fibres are rinsed away. This underlines the importance of correct methods being used to prevent shrinkage or colour transfer.
Specialist Restoration: Valued Yet Unseen
Fine Art & Collectables
28
– Our Advice – Where elements are lost or severely damaged, consider replacing with new sections, skilfully toned to blend with original finishes.
www.farcroftuk.com | Tel: 01922 458555 | Email: enquiries@farcroftuk.com
Fine Art & Collectables
29
– Brass Restoration – Metal conservation is yet another Farcroft strength, working with a variety of metal alloys, we have the practical skills and expertise to clean, repair and stabilise metal items of all periods. Many objects are created using alloys of different metals such as copper or nickel to provide sufficient strength and structural integrity. A detailed knowledge of the chemical structure of these materials is essential to ensure that compatible chemicals and processes are used for cleaning and repair. Brass is one of the more challenging metals to clean, but with the challenge comes the reward, restoring the original lustre of every piece. Skilful re-plating can be applied to severely damaged areas and indentations can be sensitively removed.
– Bronze Restoration – Bronze is found in many historic buildings - doors, ornamental handles, kick plates, push plates, handrails, signs, plaques, sculptures and other architectural features. Bronze items are often part of fixtures so that bronze cleaning and restoration is usually carried out on-site. Pieces can be cleaned and refinished, either to a high polish or traditional dark coinage shade depending on their original finish. Where elements are lost or severely damaged, new sections can be re-cast and replaced, skilfully toned to blend with original finishes.
Specialist Restoration: Valued Yet Unseen
Fine Art & Collectables
30
– Copper Restoration – Copper is one of the most important metals, with a heritage dating back to early civilisation. In fact, copper forms the base alloy for a number of other metals. All metals, with the exception of 24 carat gold, suffer the effects of corrosion caused by chemical reaction. Over time, copper begins to tarnish, causing the finish to become dulled or changing the surface colour to a darker red or brown. More aggressive corrosion causes the formation of powdery crusty layers or rough, light green spots to form on the surface. Farcroft can clean and polish copperware utilising specialist conservation techniques to sensitively restore the finish to retain a patina in keeping with the age of the piece or, if the client prefers, the bright and shiny original brilliance associated with new copper. Repairs and soldering can be carried out to ensure the handles and hinges are in full working order. Copper plating can be applied to damaged or badly worn areas and skilfully refinished.
– Silver Restoration – Careful restoration of silverware is yet another Farcroft strength, reviving the original lustre of every piece. Expert polishing removes all dullness and tarnishing, bringing back the full brilliance of fine silverware. In the UK, silver items of a domestic nature have traditionally been created from sterling silver. This is an alloy made from 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper. Silver objects originating from other parts of the world will often have a very different composition. Skilful re-plating can be applied to damaged or badly-worn areas and indentations can be sensitively removed to restore the original shape and design. Handles and hinges can be repaired to ensure that every piece is functioning as intended as well as boasting impressive appearance.
www.farcroftuk.com | Tel: 01922 458555 | Email: enquiries@farcroftuk.com
31
Fine Art & Collectables
Specialist Restoration: Valued Yet Unseen
Fine Art & Collectables
32
– Ceramics Restoration – Boasting expertise that is respected by eminent auction houses and discerning collectors, Farcroft provides the highest level of workmanship in conservation and restoration of fine china, porcelain, pottery, resin, terracotta, plaster, clay stone and other related materials. Whether we receive multiple items or a single prized possession, each piece is given the same careful consideration and dedicated workmanship to achieve an invisible restoration. From cleaning and conservation through to full reconstruction of pieces believed to be beyond repair, we restore items to their original lustre with invisible restoration and skilful sculpting of missing pieces. Original methods and materials, such as genuine gold leaf, are always used to maintain authentic value.
– Ceramics Cleaning & Conservation – Boasting expertise that is respected by eminent auction houses and discerning collectors, Farcroft provides the highest level of workmanship in conservation and restoration of fine china, porcelain, pottery, resin, terracotta, plaster, clay stone and other related materials. Whether we receive multiple items or a single prized possession, each piece is given the same careful consideration and dedicated workmanship to achieve a sympathetic restoration. From cleaning and conservation through to full reconstruction of pieces believed to be beyond repair, we restore items to their original lustre with skilful restoration and sculpting of missing pieces. Original methods and materials, such as genuine gold leaf, are always used to maintain authentic value.
www.farcroftuk.com | Tel: 01922 458555 | Email: enquiries@farcroftuk.com
33
Fine Art & Collectables
– Our Advice – Farcroft provides a replacement service for items where a practical or economic repair cannot be carried out successfully or where the item is part of a matching set.
Specialist Restoration: Valued Yet Unseen
Fine Art & Collectables
34
– Ceramics Breakage Repairs – Compared to other materials, ceramics are very brittle and therefore, more vulnerable to accidental damage ranging from minor cracks and chips to major breakage and fragmentation. The style and intricacy of formation of some pieces can also cause structural weaknesses. Farcroft can successfully restore most ceramic items, from full reconstruction of pieces believed to be beyond repair, through to fine re-glazing or colour enhancement. Detached segments are realigned and reassembled, any cracks are sealed, with fragmentation or missing pieces such as arms, hands or fingers replaced either by re-sculpting or moulding and casting, using carefully selected materials to suit the original construction and finishes.
– Our Advice – Where a piece has been broken, collect all the fragments as these can often be reassembled. Avoid attempting to realign pieces together as this can cause further crumbling and fragmentation.
www.farcroftuk.com | Tel: 01922 458555 | Email: enquiries@farcroftuk.com
35
Fine Art & Collectables
– Colour Enhancement Re-glazing & Gilding – Years of expertise have led us to develop specialist techniques, enabling us to undertake many different types of restoration. Utilising a diverse selection of paints and glazes, we select methodology to suit each particular requirement. After years of constant use, the glaze and decoration on porcelain pieces can become worn, the outer surface erodes and exposes a porous interior layer. Where this has taken place, we can retouch painted decorations and re-glaze the surface to protect and preserve the piece. Many types of porcelain and pottery have gilded decoration which traditionally was applied over the glaze and consequently is prone to wear. Farcroft carries out re-gilding using original methods and materials, such as genuine 24-carat gold leaf, to maintain authentic value.
Specialist Restoration: Valued Yet Unseen
Fine Art & Collectables
36
– Ivory Restoration – Ivory and bone are very similar in chemical make-up, but their physical structure is quite different. Ivory has long been appreciated for its tactile surface and adaptability to carving, especially in miniature. Ivory is quite strong, but may break if dropped on a hard surface. Utilising specialist conservation techniques, Farcroft can realign and bond detached pieces. Where elements of a carving are missing, new pieces can be carved using reclaimed ivory. Where ivory is damaged by soot or silt residues, it is important that cleaning is carried out with great care to ensure that a piece of ivory or bone does not get too wet. Some types of Oriental ivories have a patina that was deliberately produced by special surface staining. Again, it is important that correct methods are used to prevent bleaching.
– Glass Restoration – Compared with other materials, glass is generally stable and not generally affected by environmental variations. However, being brittle, glass objects are easily broken. The three basic types of glass are: soda, potash and lead, each with different compositions which characterise its weight, resonance, colour and light refraction. Different colours are achieved by adding metal oxides or stains to the basic ingredients. Specific handling techniques during the heating and after the cooling processes provide scope for the glass to be formed and decorated in many ways. Forming techniques include core forming, free blowing, mould blowing and mould pressing. Once the basic shape of the object has been completed, it can be decorated in numerous ways, either adding more glass to the object, cutting or engraving the surface, or by painting with enamels or gold. Farcroft can polish out minor surface abrasions and grind down chips to edges, but where more serious damage has occurred, it may be necessary to replace sections.
www.farcroftuk.com | Tel: 01922 458555 | Email: enquiries@farcroftuk.com
37
Fine Art & Collectables
– Our Advice – Where elements of a carving are missing, new pieces can be carved using reclaimed ivory.
Specialist Restoration: Valued Yet Unseen
– Solutions for Fine Furnishings – Furniture exists in many styles, reflecting the different trends in design, choice of materials and finishes over the years. Most pieces of furniture are complex structures, sometimes consisting of several different types of material on the same piece, for example, different species of wood, metals, textiles, leather, glass, ceramics, ivory, paint, varnishes and gilding.
– Fine Furnishings Restoration – Furniture Restoration
Page 40
Water Damage Restoration
Page 40
Impact Damage Restoration
Page 42
Fire Damage Restoration
Page 43
Furniture Linings Restoration
Page 44
Veneers - Marquetry, Parquetry & Inlay
Page 44
Rush & Cane Restoration
Page 46
Wood Carving & Turning
Page 47
Contemporary Finishes
Page 48
Period Finishes
Page 48
Textile & Upholstery Cleaning
Page 51
Re-upholstery & Repairs
Page 51
Leather Restoration
Page 52
Carpets and Rugs
Page 52
Clock Movement Repairs
Page 54
Clock Case Restoration
Page 54
Piano Action Repairs
Page 57
Piano Case Restoration
Page 57
Stone Furniture Restoration
Page 58
Glass Furniture Restoration
Page 59
Composite Furniture Restoration
Page 60
Metal Furniture Restoration
Page 60
Lighting Restoration
Page 62
Fine Furnishings Restoration
40
– Furniture Restoration – Highly developed skills underpin Farcroft’s strength in furniture restoration. With master craftsmen for each essential discipline, from intricate marquetry and veneer inlay work through to restoration of cane and rush seating, we bring back original beauty with appropriate techniques and quality workmanship. From damage caused by impact, spillage or fire, the breadth of our expertise enables us to handle contemporary items as well as antique, making Farcroft the ideal source for every furniture restoration requirement.
– Water Damage Restoration – Floods, leaks and spillages cause a large proportion of damage to furniture, causing staining, swelling and lifting of veneers. As a hydroscopic material, timber absorbs water so if furniture is left for an extended time in a damp environment, the wood can become swollen causing joints to weaken and split, and veneers or inlays to bubble or loosen and lift. Farcroft can dry out furniture, stabilise and strengthen joints and fixings, plane or reconstruct swollen sections, reset or replace loose or missing inlays or re-veneer surfaces. Where water has been in direct contact with furniture, this can cause ‘blooming’ or ‘tide’ marks. Farcroft utilises a number of techniques to remove such marks and restore the finish with the surface coating expertly matched to blend with surrounding areas.
www.farcroftuk.com | Tel: 01922 458555 | Email: enquiries@farcroftuk.com
41
Fine Furnishings Restoration
– Our Advice – Avoid leaving furniture for an extended time in a damp environment, the wood can become swollen causing joints to weaken and split.
Specialist Restoration: Valued Yet Unseen
Fine Furnishings Restoration
42
– Impact Damage Restoration – Furniture can be damaged in numerous ways: by incorrect handling or transportation, pet damage, burglary damage, vandalism, accidental impact and abrasion. With master craftsmen for each essential discipline, from intricate marquetry and veneer inlay work through to restoration of cane and rush seating, Farcroft can skilfully eliminate signs of damage. Broken joints and frames can be repaired and strengthened to restore the functionality items. Typical damage includes broken runners, hinges and other fittings or broken inlays such as glass and mirrors. Scratches, abrasions, indentations and gouges can be skilfully removed or filled, toned and refinished to blend with surrounding areas. Missing sections can be reconstructed, re-veneered or remoulded – all techniques we employ to restore an item to its former condition.
www.farcroftuk.com | Tel: 01922 458555 | Email: enquiries@farcroftuk.com
Fine Furnishings Restoration
43
– Fire Damage Restoration – Furniture rescued from a fire damaged property can be affected in various ways, ranging from soot residue and water damage to scorch marks and burn damage. Soot residue is best removed as quickly as possible to prevent further penetration. Depending on the cause of the fire, soot can be very oily and become deeply ingrained in the surface of wood. This can usually be lifted by specialist cleaning or stripping processes and refinishing the surface. Fires are often extinguished using water which in itself damages furniture. If the property is exposed to the elements, furniture can be further damaged by water or animal ingress. Scorch marks can be removed using localised repair techniques. Subject to the value and importance of a furniture piece, it is possible to remove all evidence of severe burn damage with missing sections reconstructed, veneered and refinished to replicate the original appearance.
Specialist Restoration: Valued Yet Unseen
Fine Furnishings Restoration
44
– Furniture Linings Restoration – Where leather linings are damaged, we can often restore and refinish the original leather to remove evidence of scratches, tears and burns. Alternatively, a new lining can be tooled using hand-dyed skivers and hides, decorated with gold leaf, using traditional tools and patterns. Velvet, suede and silk inlays are often found as a luxurious lining to cabinets. Utilising specialist textile restoration and conservation skills we successfully clean the lining. Felt cloth and baize linings, commonly used for snooker or pool tables, card tables and notice boards can be replaced in a variety of colours. Glass and mirrors are often incorporated in furniture as a decorative and functional feature. We can replace broken glass and mirrors, cut and finished to match the original piece. Other linings include brass, stone, glass, ivory, mother of pearl and ceramics.
– Veneers - Marquetry, Parquetry & Inlay – Due to changes in temperature and humidity, veneers, cross-banding, stringing, marquetry, parquetry and other inlays can lose adhesion and lift away from the surface they have been applied to. Veneering is a technique whereby expensive or rare timbers, carefully selected for their natural beauty, are sliced into thin sheets and adhered to cheaper timber. Some of these expensive woods are too unstable to build entire pieces from. Thin sheets of veneer are carefully placed in various patterns to display and enhance the wood grain. For period furniture, traditional hand skills are employed to cut and relay veneers using specialist glues and tooling. For contemporary pieces, we utilise modern processes and equipment to replicate the original construction. Marquetry is the process of decorating furniture with wood veneers and other decorative materials inlaid into furniture to form arabesque, floral, figurative and other pictorial designs. Parquetry utilises the same processes, but to form geometric patterns. The painstaking and intricate discipline of restoring inlays demands that each piece is individually cut by hand and coloured to blend with the original. Other inlay materials include brass, ivory, bone and mother of pearl.
www.farcroftuk.com | Tel: 01922 458555 | Email: enquiries@farcroftuk.com
45
Fine Furnishings Restoration
– Our Advice – If damage is too extensive, we recommend re-lining the piece with new material.
Specialist Restoration: Valued Yet Unseen
Fine Furnishings Restoration
46
– Rush & Cane Restoration – Farcroft carries out restoration to rush and caning work, ranging from cleaning and conservation to full replacement. This specialist work is still carried out by hand as it has been for many centuries. We can reproduce virtually any pattern including, double cane, medallion backs, close cane work, and secret caning. On more modern pieces of furniture, pre-woven cane is sometimes used. Depending on the level of damage, residual deposits such as soot can be removed using sensitive cleaning processes and refinished. Where more serious damage has occurred, rush can be replaced using traditional hand-weaving methods and refinished with a protective shellac coating.
www.farcroftuk.com | Tel: 01922 458555 | Email: enquiries@farcroftuk.com
Fine Furnishings Restoration
47
– Wood Carving & Turning – We have specialist in-house skills and facilities to carry out traditional wood and gesso carving from the simplest mouldings to the most intricate furniture and ornaments. Existing items can be repaired with missing sections replicated exactly as they were originally made, reinstated and refinished. All new surfaces are skilfully toned to blend with the original finishes elsewhere on the piece. Often carved furnishings are decorated with gilding. For further details on gilding, please see Page 23. When repairing furniture, the aim is to achieve a bonding strength which restores not only the appearance but also the original strength and functionality. Damaged sections can be replaced with reclaimed timber and toned to replicate the original piece.
Specialist Restoration: Valued Yet Unseen
Fine Furnishings Restoration
48
– Contemporary Finishes – Furniture finishes have changed dramatically in recent years, partially driven by the increase in massproduced furniture processes and computer- controlled machinery which have been developed to standardise sizes, materials and finishes, maximise productivity and deskill processes. Design trends have also changed, fuelling the demand for new, unique finishes. We have a dedicated spray shop to produce and replicate modern finishes from high-gloss to matt lacquers, decorative coloured paints and other modern coatings. Some modern designer furniture still requires specialist hand-applied finishes. Each item is approached individually and assigned to the appropriate craftsman who will employ techniques to replicate the original finish. With the capability to offer a comprehensive selection of surface finishes, we can also touch out damage to laminates, plastics, veneers and other composite materials.
– Period Finishes – The Farcroft finishing team has extensive expertise working with period furniture to conserve and recreate original surface finishes which reflect the craftsman’s intention and retain the patination and handling marks - key indicators of use and age, which tell the tale of the object’s history. The aim is to conserve as much as possible of the original surfaces and restore the surface finish just on damaged sections. This is then carefully toned to blend with the surrounding areas. If damage is relatively minor, gentle cleaning and waxing is sometimes sufficient to bring back the lustre and depth of colour, particularly on older pieces that were originally finished with wax or oils rather than french polish or spirit varnishes. Farcroft also has expertise restoring Oriental Lacquer and European Japanned furniture, consolidating surfaces, replacing and matching losses and reviving the original surface. Gilded and specially commissioned painted objects are restored by the fine art team, utilising specialist conservation processes to stabilise existing surfaces and replicate the original finishes.
www.farcroftuk.com | Tel: 01922 458555 | Email: enquiries@farcroftuk.com
49
Fine Furnishings Restoration
Specialist Restoration: Valued Yet Unseen
Fine Furnishings Restoration
50
www.farcroftuk.com | Tel: 01922 458555 | Email: enquiries@farcroftuk.com
Fine Furnishings Restoration
51
– Textile & Upholstery Cleaning – Soft furnishings play an important part in providing comfort in our everyday surroundings so inevitably they are prone to spillage staining and wear and tear damage. Upholstered furnishings are usually intended to form part of an interior decorative scheme and in many instances damage may have occurred to just one item which forms part of a matching set. Farcroft’s skill in textile conservation and restoration has seen many pieces restored which would have been deemed to be beyond recovery. Using sensitive cleaning techniques, most stains can be removed including water marks, inks, paints, oils, grease, mould, soot, tobacco residue, body fluids, food and drink residues. Where more serious damage has occurred, Farcroft can carry out full re-upholstery and repairs.
– Re-upholstery & Repairs – From modern to traditional upholstery, Farcroft provides a complete restoration service ranging from repairs to fabrics, replacement fillings or complete re-upholstery. Upholstery is intended to provide comfortable seating, but over time and with regular use, structural or pressure damage may have occurred. Despite the importance of the outward appearance, the major elements of upholstery are largely unseen, yet these determine the form, stability and comfort. Each piece can be stripped down to the frame to inspect and rectify damage. This includes strengthening joints, repairing frames, re-springing and replacing fillings. With a vast range of high-quality fabrics and trimmings, clients have the option to choose either a matching or a replacement fabric.
Specialist Restoration: Valued Yet Unseen
Fine Furnishings Restoration
52
– Leather Restoration – As a natural material, leather is prone to damage. From scratch and scuff repairs to a complete re-upholstery, Farcroft restores most types of damage to leather furnishings. Most scratches, scuffs, small cuts, tears and burns can be repaired invisibly using localised repair techniques. For larger cuts, tears and burns, we can replace just the panel affected and colour and finish it to blend with surrounding areas. Whilst most types of leather are not easily stained, Farcroft can remove a wide range of stains and surface marks and restore the original sheen. Where severe damage has occurred, Farcroft’s upholstery team provides a full re-upholstery service to replace fillings, foams, springs, webbings and recover in a wide range of leathers.
– Carpets & Rugs – Woven rugs, runners and carpets have a long heritage, dating back to early civilisation. It is the extraordinary diversity of styles, designs, colours and history which make them such a desirable furnishing. Farcroft’s skill in textile conservation and restoration has seen many pieces restored which were thought to be beyond recovery. Evidence of staining such as water marks, mould, soot, candle wax, oil, grease, ink, food, drink residue and body fluid stains can be successfully removed. Unpleasant odours and residual deposits such as smoke, mould and bacteria are removed using specialist cleaning, sanitising and deodorising processes. Tears, holes, threadbare areas and re-fringing repairs can be undertaken, expertly matching the fibre type, spin, ply, and construction features to retain the authentic appearance and value. Large rugs can be difficult to handle so to protect the rug and as part of our service to clients, we move furniture as required when uplifting or re-positioning the rug.
www.farcroftuk.com | Tel: 01922 458555 | Email: enquiries@farcroftuk.com
53
Fine Furnishings Restoration
– Our Advice – Whilst most types of leather are not easily stained, Farcroft can remove a wide range of stains and surface marks and restore the original sheen.
Specialist Restoration: Valued Yet Unseen
Fine Furnishings Restoration
54
– Clock Movement Repairs – In-depth experience in horology lies behind Farcroft’s strength in clock restoration. Clock movements can be fully serviced and restored to full working order with intricate parts replaced or reconstructed as appropriate. Movements are stripped down to clean each part, before looking for signs of wear and checking that the wheels and pinions engage properly. Parts can be redressed or replaced before re-assembly and oiling. We restore most types of clock, from longcase or Grandfather clocks to mantel, bracket, wall or table timepieces, and have many replacement antique components to facilitate this. Our advice is that where a clock has been damaged, handling the movements should be avoided, because dismantling and setting up clocks is more complex than may be anticipated.
– Clock Case Restoration – Clocks have tremendous decorative appeal and are in many instances chosen more for the quality of design than accuracy of time-keeping. Where a clock has been damaged by residual deposit such as soot, components can be cleaned, refinished and polished as required. Hand-painted dial and face cleaning is carried out by the fine art team, utilising specialist conservation methods. Where damage to the case has been sustained, surface marks and scratches can be eradicated, broken items reconstructed using reclaimed timber carefully selected to match the base material, joints strengthened, damaged sections filled, re-veneered or remoulded. Broken glass can be replaced, carefully matched to suit the age and style. Our finishing team has expertise to restore most types of case finishes from high gloss lacquers, hand finished polishes, traditional waxes and oils, marquetry inlays, gilt work and specially commissioned painted decorations.
www.farcroftuk.com | Tel: 01922 458555 | Email: enquiries@farcroftuk.com
55
Fine Furnishings Restoration
– Our Advice – Where a clock has been damaged, handling the movements should be avoided, because dismantling and setting up clocks is more complex than may be anticipated.
Specialist Restoration: Valued Yet Unseen
Fine Furnishings Restoration
56
– Our Advice – Damage is often caused by incorrect handling or transportation, so it is important that correct procedures are followed when relocating a piano.
www.farcroftuk.com | Tel: 01922 458555 | Email: enquiries@farcroftuk.com
Fine Furnishings Restoration
57
– Piano Action Repairs – From antique to modern uprights, mini to concert grands, Farcroft has rescued and revived a wide range of pianos, bringing back beauty to the case appearance and restoring the tone and functionality of an enjoyable instrument. If a piano has been in water or a seriously damp environment, typical damage includes “sticky” keys, mould formation and corrosion or rusting to the metal components. If a piano has been covered with soot residue, the interior will need to be sensitively cleaned. Repairs and adjustments to the action, include replacing strings, felts, leathers, cloths, and hammers through to more complex repairs or structural work such as bridge or soundboard rebuilding. We retune all pianos before returning them to their owners.
– Piano Case Restoration – Like all wooden furnishings, piano cases are vulnerable to water, fire and impact damages which leave residual deposits or abrasion marks, and cause veneers to swell or loosen, and joints to crack. Our finishing team has expertise to restore most types of case finishes and eliminate evidence of damage to return the original surface lustre. Typical finishes include high gloss lacquers, hand finished polishes, traditional waxes, oils, marquetry inlays, gilt work and specially commissioned painted decorations. Missing or damaged ivory keys can be cleaned or replaced. Brass features such as castors, pedals and hinges can be cleaned and polished, bringing back the original brilliance.
Specialist Restoration: Valued Yet Unseen
Fine Furnishings Restoration
58
– Stone Furniture Restoration – The beauty of natural stone makes it another popular component of furniture. Farcroft has a specialist team for cleaning, polishing, sealing and restoring natural stone and ceramics, either on-site or in the workshop. By their very nature, stone and ceramics chip and crack easily. Where possible, detached pieces are realigned and bonded together. Abrasion damage to polished surfaces such as marble tables, can be remedied using a diamond grinding and re-polishing process. Surface staining can be removed using specialist cleaning and polishing processes. Farcroft can also source replacement stone, carefully selected, cut and finished to match the original style.
www.farcroftuk.com | Tel: 01922 458555 | Email: enquiries@farcroftuk.com
59
Fine Furnishings Restoration
– Glass Furniture Restoration – Glass has become an increasingly popular material in modern furniture design. The range of glass options affords tremendous scope to achieve almost magical translucent effects, further enhanced when pieces are positioned under favourable lighting conditions. Farcroft can polish out minor surface abrasions, but where more serious damage has occurred, it may be necessary to replace the glass. New glass is carefully sourced to match the age and style of the piece, for example, antique glass has imperfection features such as surface ripples, small air bubbles and uneven bevelling. In addition to plain glass, Farcroft can provide a huge range of tinted and painted glass in a variety of colours. Available in various thicknesses, glass can be cut, bevelled or moulded to form the desired shape and size. Glass is available in various patterns and decorative finishes including acid etching, enamelling, gilding and engraving.
Specialist Restoration: Valued Yet Unseen
Fine Furnishings Restoration
60
– Composite Furniture Restoration – Composite materials such as mdf, chipboard, plastic laminates, high pressure laminates and minerals have become increasingly popular for the mass production of modern furniture, utilising waste materials which can be profiled to form different shapes, challenging conventional furniture designs. Our finishing team can touch out damage to laminates, solid surface finishes and other composite surface finishes. Where elements are broken or missing, it is sometimes possible to remould or infill sections and refinish to blend with the surrounding surface. If required, indepth treatment reports can be provided together with digital images to show the different stages from beginning to end of restoration.
– Metal Furniture Restoration – With tubular and sheet metals more readily available, the use of chromium, aluminium, brass, copper, steel and other industrial grade metals for furniture production has increased in recent years. Metal conservation is yet another Farcroft strength, working with a variety of metals, we have the practical skills and expertise to clean, repair and stabilise metal items of all periods. Evidence of deterioration such as corrosion can be removed, and missing or broken elements can be recreated or strengthened, welded and refinished. We take great pride in our ability to replicate a wide range of surface finishes and textures these include powder-coated, painted, oxidised, patinated, polished, plated, anodised and galvanised finishes. Many objects are created using alloys of different metals such as copper or nickel. Farcroft has a detailed knowledge of the chemical structure of these materials to ensure that compatible chemicals and processes are used for cleaning and repair purposes.
www.farcroftuk.com | Tel: 01922 458555 | Email: enquiries@farcroftuk.com
61
Fine Furnishings Restoration
– Our Advice – If required, in-depth treatment reports can be provided together with digital images to show the different stages from beginning to end of restoration.
Specialist Restoration: Valued Yet Unseen
Fine Furnishings Restoration
62
– Lighting Restoration – Lighting is one of the fundamental features of interior design. From historical to modern pieces, the aim for designers is to achieve impressive lighting effects through intricate construction and elaborate styling. It is the extraordinary diversity of styles, designs and history that drives desirability and value. Restoration of intricate light pieces such as chandeliers, candelabra and Tiffany lighting are adeptly handled by Farcroft specialists. Sympathetic cleaning and neutralisation processes remove residue build-up on glasswork, whilst bronze and brass work can be cleaned with the removal of original surface lacquer and then re-lacquering. Where glass has been scratched or chipped, it can sometimes be ground down and re-polished invisibly. Missing or broken pieces can either be re-created or replaced. With our extensive stock of old pieces, it is usually possible to find or re-create any item that is missing or broken. Farcroft restores many lighting pieces including chandeliers, table-lamps, floor-lamps and wall-sconces. Lamp shades and bases can be found in a wide variety of materials – textiles, plastics, metals, woods, ceramics and glass. Each piece is assigned to the appropriate craftsmen to carry out structural repairs and restore the surface finish. Electrical safety (PAT) testing can be carried out and where necessary, items can be rewired to ensure compliance with current safety specifications. Rather than risk unnecessary damage, we provide a proactive service to take down, pack, transport and hang chandeliers for clients. Chandelier cleaning can be carried out on-site or at our workshops.
www.farcroftuk.com | Tel: 01922 458555 | Email: enquiries@farcroftuk.com
63
Fine Furnishings Restoration
– Our Advice – Rather than risk unnecessary damage, we provide a proactive service to take down, pack, transport and hang chandeliers for clients.
Specialist Restoration: Valued Yet Unseen
– Solutions for Wood Flooring & Fixtures – With over 40 years’ experience in restoration, Farcroft has a very deep understanding of wood flooring and fixtures techniques - cleaning, maintenance, repairs, conservation, restoration and replacement.
– Wood Flooring & Fixtures – Flooring Wood Flooring Restoration
Page 66
Accidental Damage Restoration
Page 66
Water Damage Restoration
Page 68
Fire Damage Restoration
Page 69
Sub-Floor Repairs and Preparation
Page 70
Fixing Methods
Page 71
Flooring Trims and Profiles
Page 72
Finish Options
Page 72
Cleaning and Maintenance
Page 75
Consultancy and Arbitration
Page 75
Heritage Flooring Conservation
Page 76
Fixtures Interior Woodwork Conservation
Page 76
Architectural Joinery Restoration
Page 78
Composite Surfaces Restoration
Page 79
Wood Flooring & Fixtures
66
– Wood Flooring Restoration – Every wood floor is valuable and should be as impressive as it is functional, but over time damage does occur and the original surface sheen becomes faded through exposure to light, indentation, abrasion and surface marks. Often the trend has been to simply replace older floors, but this is both costly and unnecessary. Most wood floors have a wear layer in excess of 5mm which provides scope for stripping and refinishing the surface. If parts of a floor are actually damaged or missing, we can apply conservation techniques to repair or patch in those areas using reclaimed timber, carefully toned to blend with adjacent areas and replicate the ageing of the original floor.
– Accidental Damage Restoration – Accidental damage can occur from the moment the flooring is fitted. Such damage includes scratches, dents, gouges, scorch marks, water marks, chemical reactions and liquid or paint spills.
Impact or Abrasion Damage Depending on the depth of scratch marks and indentations, these can often be resolved by stripping, sanding, reapplying a finish and polishing the floor. Missing or severely damaged blocks can be replaced using reclaimed timber, carefully toned to blend with surrounding areas.
Spillage Marks Marks in the finish can be removed by stripping the surface, reapplying a matching finish and polishing the floor. Sometimes, spillage residue from more viscous solutions such as paint may not penetrate beyond the protective finish coating although a DIY removal attempt would often remove the finish sheen.
www.farcroftuk.com | Tel: 01922 458555 | Email: enquiries@farcroftuk.com
67
Wood Flooring & Fixtures
– Our Advice – If parts of a floor are actually damaged or missing, we can apply conservation techniques to repair or patch in those areas using reclaimed materials.
Specialist Restoration: Valued Yet Unseen
Wood Flooring & Fixtures
68
– Water Damage Restoration – Water Marks Marks in the finish can be taken out by stripping the surface, reapplying a matching finish and polishing the floor.
Loose Blocks or Boards As wood absorbs water, it swells causing the flooring compound and adhesive to break down, resulting in blocks becoming loose and lifting, potentially creating a trip hazard. This is often caused by rising damp or flood damage. Affected areas can be lifted to facilitate sub-floor moisture removal. Smoothing compounds and damp proof membranes are used to provide a durable sub-floor surface. Flooring can then be refitted and finished to restore its original lustre.
Flood Damage Where the whole floor area has been flooded, the entire floor can be lifted to facilitate sub-floor moisture removal. Smoothing compounds and damp proof membranes are used to provide a durable sub-floor surface. Flooring can then be refitted and finished to restore its original lustre.
www.farcroftuk.com | Tel: 01922 458555 | Email: enquiries@farcroftuk.com
Wood Flooring & Fixtures
69
– Fire Damage Restoration – Burn Damage Scorch marks can often be removed using localised repair techniques.
Soot Residue Residue from a fire or chimney soot fall can be removed using specialist wood cleaning and conditioning processes to lift ingrained carbon and soot deposits, and re-finish the surface to restore the floor back to its pre-incident condition.
Specialist Restoration: Valued Yet Unseen
Wood Flooring & Fixtures
70
– Sub-floor Preparation – The quality of the finished floor will only be as good as the sub-floor over which it has been laid. Most floor coverings require a smooth, hard, clean and even surface for satisfactory adhesion and resistance to wear if good application and long term durability are to be achieved. Smoothing compounds and damp proof membranes are used to provide a durable sub-floor surface.
Substrates: The 3 main flooring substrates used are: •
Sand/cement levelling screeds, concrete sub-floors, concrete base slabs
•
Timber suspended floors
•
Metal suspended floors
Damp Proof Membranes: It is essential with floorcoverings that the sub-floor is protected from moisture. Moisture in sub-floors normally results from either rising damp due to the absence or breakdown of the damp proof membrane or from residual construction moisture. Surface damp proof membranes are used to restrict the passage of water and water vapour.
www.farcroftuk.com | Tel: 01922 458555 | Email: enquiries@farcroftuk.com
Wood Flooring & Fixtures
71
– Fixing Methods – There are 3 common methods of installing timber floors: •
echanical fixing - fixed to timber joists, existing timber floors or to battens either M by face or hidden fixing using nails, staples or screws.
• Adhesive fixing - wood blocks, herringbone parquet and mosaic panels are adhered to the sub-floor. •
Floating systems - boards and strips can be held by interlocking joints or clips.
Expansion Gaps: Expansion gaps are necessary at the perimeter and all other abutments such as radiator pipes, thresholds, and floor sockets. Perimeter gaps are usually covered with a skirting board or perimeter trims.
Specialist Restoration: Valued Yet Unseen
Wood Flooring & Fixtures
72
– Flooring Trims & Profiles – Farcroft can supply a comprehensive range of mouldings, thresholds, nosings, skirtings and accessories to compliment the flooring and other adjacent finishes. For restoration projects our aim would be to touch out any damage to the finish. If the skirtings or trims are beyond feasible repair, Farcroft can source a new replacement. With species ranging from maple to merbau and numerous types in between, getting the exact match should not be a problem. These can be finished using the same stains, oils, waxes or lacquers as used on adjacent flooring to provide the same appearance.
– Finish Options – Timber flooring generally requires finishing to protect the timber from contamination, staining and to reduce surface wear. Applying a floor finish also helps to highlight the natural beauty of the timber grain and provide a level of sheen to suit the client’s taste, ranging from matt to high-gloss finishes. Whilst some flooring products are supplied as pre-finished, even these may require a final coat of finish after installation is completed. Where unfinished timber is installed, a sanding process is used to prepare the surface prior to a finish being applied. There are a wide range of different finishes available – traditional waxes and oils, hardwax oils, polyurethane oils, lacquers and water-based seals. We liaise with clients to select a flooring finish of their choice.
www.farcroftuk.com | Tel: 01922 458555 | Email: enquiries@farcroftuk.com
73
Wood Flooring & Fixtures
– Our Advice – Applying the right floor finish helps to highlight the natural beauty of the timber grain.
Specialist Restoration: Valued Yet Unseen
Wood Flooring & Fixtures
74
– Our Advice – Ensure to prepare the sub-floor correctly – incompatible product use and neglect can cause a number of defect problems.
www.farcroftuk.com | Tel: 01922 458555 | Email: enquiries@farcroftuk.com
Wood Flooring & Fixtures
75
– Cleaning & Maintenance – Most hardwood floors, regardless of the type of finish require periodical cleaning and maintenance to keep their lustre. Mopping, vacuuming and sweeping a floor will help to remove grit and dust from the surface to prevent unnecessary abrasion to the surface. When purchasing a new floor, the manufacturer will often provide guidance for cleaning and maintenance, using specific chemicals which are compatible with the original flooring finish. For example, it is important not to use a water-based cleaner on a wax-finished floor. Depending on the level of damage to a floor, Farcroft offers a deep cleaning and maintenance service to buff the floor and to clean and remove marks and then apply new coats of finish to restore the original sheen. This provides a budget alternative to a full restoration process by stripping, sanding and resealing the floor.
– Consultancy & Arbitration – Farcroft provides a consultancy service to advise and assist in all aspects of flooring. This includes troubleshooting advice on problems and expert reports to resolve flooring disputes of all kinds. Incompatible product use and neglect to prepare the sub-floor correctly causes a number of defect problems. On fast-track building projects, issues arise where the wood flooring has been installed before the substrate has had sufficient time to cure or residual moisture levels are too high. This causes the flooring to ‘cup’ or ‘curl’. As a natural material, wood reacts to changes in temperature or moisture levels. Too much or too little causes the wood to either swell or shrink. This is an important factor which is often overlooked with specifying wood flooring for use in conjunction with underfloor heating.
Specialist Restoration: Valued Yet Unseen
Wood Flooring & Fixtures
76
– Heritage Flooring Conservation – For timber floors in historic homes or other listed properties, our conservation team provides a full conservation service to prolong the life of the original materials and finishes in an informed and sympathetic way, avoiding the need of replacement or restoration. Our craftsmen can carry out localised repairs to skilfully remove unsightly marks using carefully developed finishing techniques. Where necessary, we can repair or patch in severe damage areas using reclaimed timber, carefully toned to blend with adjacent areas and replicating the patina of the original floor. For conservation projects, Farcroft can provide a consultancy service. This includes surveying and monitoring the flooring condition, providing a Conservation Report detailing the condition assessment, with recommendations and priorities for treatment to enable effective targeting of funds.
– Interior Woodwork Conservation – In addition to timber flooring, Farcroft provides a full restoration and conservation service for other wood surfaces, fixtures, fittings and period furniture. Damage can occur through environmental changes such as moisture or humidity levels, temperature change and UV exposure or surface abrasion and impact, particularly in areas open to the public. Fixtures and fittings include panelling, staircases, doors, skirtings, handrails and other fitted furniture. Where wooden fixtures have been subject to extensive damage, we can carry out repairs in situ to strengthen fixings and joints, patch in missing sections using reclaimed timber and reconstruct missing details such as mouldings and intricate carved decorations. With an extensive knowledge of period finishing, our team can touch out surface damage using colours and finishes carefully toned to replicate and blend with adjacent areas.
www.farcroftuk.com | Tel: 01922 458555 | Email: enquiries@farcroftuk.com
77
Wood Flooring & Fixtures
– Our Advice – Be aware of environmental changes such as moisture or humidity levels, temperature change and UV exposure which can cause damage.
Specialist Restoration: Valued Yet Unseen
Wood Flooring & Fixtures
78
– Architectural Joinery Restoration – Some wood fixtures and fitted furniture are irreplaceable and an integral part of the interior design. Our finishing team has expertise to restore most types of finish from high gloss lacquers, hand finished polishes, marquetry inlays, gilt work and specially commissioned painted decorations. Where wooden fixtures have been subject to extensive damage, repairs can be carried out in situ to strengthen fixings or joints and fill or replace missing and damaged sections using reclaimed timber carefully toned to blend with the age and appearance of the piece.
www.farcroftuk.com | Tel: 01922 458555 | Email: enquiries@farcroftuk.com
79
Wood Flooring & Fixtures
– Composite Surfaces Restoration – Being able to offer a comprehensive range of surface finishes on site allows us to repair not only timber but also laminates, plastics, veneers and other composite materials in worktops, splash backs, wall panels and up stands. This avoids the need for such fixtures to be replaced. Where sections are extensively damaged or missing, it is possible to re-construct or remould pieces. If required, in-depth treatment reports can be provided together with digital images to show the different stages from beginning to end of restoration.
Specialist Restoration: Valued Yet Unseen
– Solutions for Stone & Ceramic Fixtures – With a dedicated team for stone and ceramics conservation and restoration, Farcroft can provide a range of services to preserve and revitalise stone and masonry for floors, walls, columns, frontages and other stone features, in both heritage listed and modern properties.
– Stone & Ceramic Fixtures – Natural Stone Restoration
Page 82
Porcelain Surfaces Restoration
Page 83
Stone & Ceramic Fixtures
82
– Natural Stone Restoration – Stone fixtures such as floors, walls, columns, frontages and other architectural features can become damaged in various ways over time. Farcroft has a specialist team dedicated to the sympathetic restoration and conservation of stone and masonry structures. This requires a detailed knowledge of the chemical structure of different stones so as to select compatible chemicals for cleaning and bonding purposes. Where staining or soiling has occurred, sensitive cleaning chemicals and processes are used to remove evidence of discolouration. Where appropriate, specialist sealants are used to provide a long-lasting protective surface. Over time, stone can crumble and break down as a result of weathering etc. Where this has occurred, the defective stone can be removed back to a sound substrate and replaced with new or reclaimed stone to match the original. Stone masonry can be repointed or grouted to provide a durable bonding to the substrate.
www.farcroftuk.com | Tel: 01922 458555 | Email: enquiries@farcroftuk.com
83
Stone & Ceramic Fixtures
– Porcelain Surfaces Restoration – Utilising similar processes to the restoration and conservation of natural stone, ceramic fixtures such as porcelain and terracotta wall and floor tiles can be cleaned and restored. Porcelain is a man-made material and is found in a wide variety of colours and variations to replicate different types of natural stone. It can be smooth or rough, glazed or unglazed. Where staining or soiling has occurred, porcelain can be stripped back, sealed and polished using specialist chemicals or diamond grinding and polishing processes to remove discolouration. If tiles are cracked or missing, we can supply and install replacements, carefully finished to match the original colour tones. Where grouting is missing or in poor condition, it can be removed and replaced with a new grout.
Specialist Restoration: Valued Yet Unseen
84
– Index – 26 Animals, Taxidermy 20 Antiquarian Books 48 Antique Finishes 24 Antique Mirrors 75 Arbitration, Flooring 76-78 Architectural Joinery 82 Architectural Stone Fixtures 51 Armchairs 11-36 Art & Collectables 43 Baize Linings 76-78 Balustrades 54 Barographs 54 Barometers 38-52 Beds 44 Billiard Tables 40 Blooming Marks 36 Bone 20 Books 54 Bracket Clocks 29 Brass 44 Brass Inlays 29 Bronze 32-35 Busts, Ceramic 29-30 Busts, Metal 62 Candelabra 46 Cane & Rush Work 16 Canvas Screens 16 Canvases 44 Card Tables 52 Carpets 54 Carriage Clocks 47 Carved Furniture 47 Carving & Turning 54 Case Repairs 62 Ceiling Lights 80-83 Ceramic & Stone Fixtures 32-35 Ceramics 62 Chandeliers 38-48 Chests-of-drawers 32-35 China 60 Chipboard Furniture 32-35 Clay Stone 54 Clocks 26 Clothing & Textiles 11-37 Collectables & Fine Art 06 Collection Care 35 Colour Enhancement 48 Coloured Finishes 80-83 Columns, Stone 60 Composite Furniture 79 Composite Surfaces 06 Condition Surveys
06 Conservation Consultancy 23 Conservation Framing 75 Consultancy, Flooring 25 Contemporary Art 48 Contemporary Finishes 30 Copper 26 Costumes & Textiles 44 Cross-banding 36 Crystal 51 Curtains & Drapes 26 Cushions 30 Cutlery 08 Damage Evaluation 70 Damp Proof Membranes 36 Decanters 48 Decorative Finishes 38-48 Desks 54 Dial Cleaning 83 Diamond Grinding & Polishing 38-48 Dining Suites 23 Display Framing 20 Documents 26 Dolls & Toys 76-78 Doors & Architrave 62 Electrical Safety Testing 26 Embroidery 09 Emergency Removal Service 19 Etchings or Graphic Arts 51 51 54 26 44 32-36 11-37 72 76-78 76-78 76-78 75 72 62 70 64-76 70 72 76 75 71 82-83 64-76 16
Fabric Repairs Fabric Upholstery Face Cleaning Fashion Accessories Felt Linings Figures, Ceramic Fine Art & Collectables Finishes, Flooring Fire Surrounds Fitted Furniture Fixtures, Wood Floor Cleaning & Maintenance Floor Finishes Floor Lamps Floor Levelling Floor Repairs Floor Substrate Preparation Floor Trims & Profiles Flooring Conservation Flooring Defects Flooring Installation Flooring, Stone & Ceramics Flooring, Wood Folding Screens
www.farcroftuk.com | Tel: 01922 458555 | Email: enquiries@farcroftuk.com
23 Frames 48 French Polishes 52 Fringing Repairs 38-63 Furnishings 40-52 Furniture 48 Furniture, Finishes 43 Furniture, Fire Damage 42 Furniture, Impact Damage 44 Furniture, Linings 40 Furniture, Water Damage 60 Galvanising 44 Game Tables 47 Gesso Carving 23 Gilding 47 Gilt Furniture 36 Glassware 59 Glass Furniture 44 Glass Linings 30 Gold 23 Gold Leaf Gilding 57 Grand Pianos 54 Grandfather Clocks 58 Granite Furniture 82 Granite Flooring 19 Graphic Arts or Etchings 83 Grouting 09 Guarantee 76-78 Handrails 64-76 Hardwood Floors 57 Harpsichords 06 Heritage Conservation 76 Heritage Flooring 51 Hessian Replacement 48 High-gloss Finishes 54 Horology 25 Iconic Art 42 Impact Damage, Furniture 08 Inspection Service 76-78 Interior Woodwork 36 Ivory 44 Ivory Inlays 32-35 Jade 48 Jappaned Finishes 76-78 Joinery Restoration 32-35 Jugs 26
Keepsakes or Collectables
26 Lace 60 Laminate Furniture
85
79 Laminate Fixtures 62 Lamps & Lanterns 36 Leaded Glass 52 Leather 44 Leather Inlays 16 Leather Screens 62 Lighting 80 Limestone Flooring 54 Longcase Clocks 68 Loose Blocks, Flooring 54 Mantel Clocks 82 Marble Flooring 58 Marble Furniture 44 Marquetry 26 Masks 80-83 Masonry 48 Matt Finishes 60 MDF Furniture 26 Medals 26 Memorabilia 24 Mercury Mirrors 60 Metal Furniture 29-30 Metals 09 MI Reporting 26 Militaria 44 Mirror Inlays 24 Mirrors 26 Models 25 Modern Art 48 Modern Furniture Finishes 44 Mother of Pearl Inlays 57 Musical Instruments 58 Natural Stone Furniture 82 Natural Stone Fixtures 26 Needlework 44 Notice Boards 14 48 52 11-36
Oil Paintings Oriental Lacquers Oriental Rugs Ornaments & Collectables
16 Painted Screens 14-18 Paintings 76-78 Panelling 18-20 Paper Conservation 26 Papier-mâchÊ 20 Parchments 64-76 Parquet Floors 44 Parquetry 62 PAT testing 48 Period Finishes
52 Persian Carpets 20 Photographs 57 Pianos 32-35 Plaques 32-35 Plaster Casts 60 Plastic Furniture 32-35 Plates 44 Pool Tables 32-35 Porcelain & China 83 Porcelain Fixtures 20 Posters 32-35 Pottery 60 Powder-coating 20 Prints 16 Privacy Screens 80
Quarry Tiles
23 Re-framing 23 Re-gilding 35 Re-glazing, Ceramics 83 Re-grouting 09 Removal Service 29-30 Re-plating 32-35 Resin 51 Re-springing 51 Re-upholstery 52 Rugs & Carpet 52 Runners 46 Rush & Cane Work 26 Samplers 54 Scientific Instruments 70 Screed Repairs 16 Screens 32-35 Sculpture 51 Settees 48 Shellac Coatings 38-48 Sideboards 26 Signed Memorabilia 26 Silk 44 Silk Linings 30 Silver 76-78 Skirtings 44 Snooker Tables 51 Sofas 26 Souvenirs 79 Splash Backs 48 Spray Finishes 51 Stain Removal 76-78 Staircases 62 Standing Lamps 32-35 Statutes 80-83 Stone & Ceramic Fixtures
58 Stone Furniture 44 Stone Inlays 09 Storage Service 44 Stringing 70 Sub-floor Preparation 08 Survey Service 54 Table Clocks 62 Table Lamps 38-48 Tables 26 Tapestries 26 Taxidermy 32-35 Terracotta 83 Terracotta tiles 51 Textile Cleaning 26 Textiles 40 Tide Marks 62 Tiffany Lighting 82-83 Tiles, Stone & Ceramic 54 Timepieces 26 Toys 52 Tufting 51 Upholstery Cleaning 51 Upholstery Repairs 57 Upright Pianos 79 Upstands 08 Validation Service 09 Valuation Service 32-35 Vases 44 Velvet Linings 44 Veneers 54 Wall Clocks 62 Wall Lights 79 Wall Panels 40 Water Damage, Furniture 18 Watercolours 48 Wax Finishes 60 Welding 46 Wicker Furniture 76-78 Window Boards 47 Wood Carving 76-78 Wood Fixtures 64-76 Wood Flooring 40-52 Wood Furniture 47 Wood Turning 07 Workmanship Guarantee 79 Worktops 26 Woven Arts 52 Woven Rugs
Specialist Restoration: Valued Yet Unseen
86
– Working with Farcroft – The quality of Farcroft’s service is underpinned by our systematic organisation of all work that we undertake. Whilst sensitive restoration cannot be automated, we insist on working to schedules and notifying customers when unexpected delays occur. Every customer is treated with the same respect and friendly efficiency by our trained sales and consultancy staff. We aim to make fulfilment of your restoration requirements a straightforward and enjoyable experience, from your first call to completion of your restoration project.
Placing your restoration requirements with Farcroft guarantees the following: • No-obligation written restoration report and quotation, including a valuation of damaged items •
Expert restoration of every individual item by dedicated craftsmen
• Reliable turnaround times with prioritised workload based on meeting the needs of customers
www.farcroftuk.com | Tel: 01922 458555 | Email: enquiries@farcroftuk.com
87
Specialist Restoration: Valued Yet Unseen
www.farcroftuk.com
SPECIALIST RESTORATION – Valued Yet Unseen – For more information about what we do & how we could help you, please call us at either our: Head Office: 01922 458 555 London Office: 0207 868 2420 Glasgow Office: 0141 249 6650 or email us at: enquiries@farcroftuk.com
Farcroft Restorations Ltd Registered Address: Farcroft House, Middlemore Lane West, Aldridge, West Midlands, WS9 8BG. Registered in England and Wales No. 8687203. © Farcroft Restorations Ltd. No part of this publication may be copied or reproduced in any way, without the express written permission of Farcroft Restorations Ltd. E&OE.