Cleaning up old wood

Irishman · #1 11-12-2006, 10:47 AM

I have a friend of mine who wishes to restore some large elbow joints he is removing from a barn he's tearing down. The support joints were hand chiseled and he would like to maintain the integrety of the wood once he removes them. Any tips for a cleaning compound or solution to help with the job would be appreciated.
Patrick

wade clark · #2 11-12-2006, 12:16 PM

What needs restored on them? Is the wood deteriorating, or does it just need a good cleaning?
Much cleaning will remove the patina that only time can create. I'd suggest going as gently as possible...maybe start with an air hose just blowing away accumulated dust. With great care he could sand blast them, but it will remove the patina and quickly get into the wood, especially the softer area between the growth rings. If he actually has to wash them, TSP and a scrub brush and a spray nozzle on a hose would work. They'll handle water okay, probably, but they've probably been dry for a long time... I'd sure try the least invasive way first.
It'd be great to see some pictures of them. Is he going to re-build with them or sell them?
Wade

decoycarve · #3 11-12-2006, 05:18 PM

I have restored a few old pieces and a trick an antique dealer showed me was to take Arm &

Washing powder and mix it with some water to a loose paste consistancy. Use a tooth brush or a stiff paint brush ( I use a pair of scissors and cut a brush off short) and scrub the piece. Then clean up the residue with clean brushes and sponges. Its amaseing how much dirt this takes out of wood. Quick and easy is deck britener and a power washer.
Goody

Hi_Ho_Sliver · #4 11-12-2006, 06:09 PM

Wouldn't that ruin any antique value?

decoycarve · #5 11-12-2006, 06:50 PM

You'de Be surprised what some pieces look like when they are brought from old cellars and attics. I am working on an old secretary that was found in an old barn. It had mud on it a 1/4 inch thick and is cleaning up real nice. The piece that Anna painted was full of mud the cubby holes were full and half the inside was mud. Its not a matter of value with us as much as it is making an old piece useable again.
Goody

Irishman · #6 11-12-2006, 06:52 PM

Thanks fella's. I'll pass on this information. The "elbows" are supports from a 100 plus year old barn that will soon be taken down. We don't know what kind of wood it is but the fibres are intact. There are gouge marks on the wood from the carver so the gentler the solution being used the better. He hopes to mount the elbow joint somewhere's in the house or perhaps build something from it. It has a lot of intrinsic value as his father passed away this spring and ran the farm all his life so its very much a momento.
Patrick