Wall Hanging Maintenance Tips: How to Care for Handcrafted Wooden Art
Wooden art has a particular place in the domestic decorations. Each wall hanging is a different story; unlike mass-produced items, the wood usually has the imprint of the hands of the artisan and the wood itself, the beauty of nature. Wooden wall art adds warmth, depth, and the classical appeal to any room. Be it a carved or a simple geometric form or even a rustic design that brings out the natural grains of the timber.
Nonetheless, like any material of nature, wood needs careful treatment to sustain its beauty and longevity. Having been hung on the wall without being properly maintained, handcrafted wooden wall hangings may lose their luster, warp, or crack despite time. This guide will take you through easy but effective rules on how to maintain the beauty in your wooden decoration to last you years.
1.Dust Regularly with a Soft Cloth
One of the largest enemies of wooden art is dust deposition. When dust particles are fine, they will dull the finish and even scratch the surface when left to accumulate. To avoid the dispersion of dust, use a soft microfiber cloth instead of a feather duster. Wipe your wooden wall hanging (gently) at least once or twice a week to ensure dust will not settle into carvings or textured areas.
To apply the deep grooves of complicated designs, a soft-bristled brush or handheld vacuum with a weak nozzle should be used. This makes sure that not even the smallest of crevices is left dirty to cause any harm.
2. Avoid Direct Sunlight
Wood does not tolerate long exposure to sunlight. The severe UV rays may fade away, discolor, or even crack your wooden wall hanging; this is possible over time. When you have your art in a room with big windows, either move it to a shadowy corner or put up sheer curtains to remove the direct sunlight.
An alternative suggestion is to periodically swap your hangings on the wall in case you have a number of items within a single area. This allows no one piece to receive uneven amounts of sunlight and thus achieve uniformity in the color and finish.
3. Maintain Proper Humidity Levels
Wood is a living, breathing substance—even after it has been made into art. It expands and contracts with changes of humidity naturally. Too much moisture will result in warping, and too dry air will result in cracks.
To avoid this, attempt to maintain your humidity indoors at a constant around 40-60. In the case of a humid climate, in this case, a humidifier device will save your wooden art. Swelling or mildew can be prevented by a dehumidifier or air conditioning in damp areas.
4. Clean with Care
Sometimes, a simple dusting isn’t enough. To clean deeper, a cloth can be slightly wetened with water or a spongy wood cleaner. Do not leave the wood too wet, as excess moisture may creep in and ruin the finish. Wipe the surface immediately with a dry cloth after cleaning to make sure that no water is left.
Strong chemical cleaners or rough scrubbing pads must be avoided at all times. They are capable of removing the finish and causing permanent scars on the surface.
5. Polish or Oil Occasionally
To keep the wood so rich, you may wish to polish your wall hanging once or twice in a year. Linseed or tung oil that is made naturally can help put that sheen back and keep the wood from drying up. Nevertheless, test on a small section hidden away first to make sure that the oils do not change the color unexpectedly.
Should your piece already be lacquered or covered with a varnish. Apply a wooden polish that is made to be used on sealed surfaces. This is not only to restore the sheen but also an added protection.
6. Handle with Gentle Hands
You must be careful when handling your wooden art when relocating or rehanging it. It should not be pressed on delicate carvings or thin edges, and it can chip or break. In the case of the heavy piece, it is advisable to secure the piece using suitable wall anchors and supports so that it does not fall.
Checking on your wall hooks is also a good idea. In the long run they may loosen, particularly when clamped on drywall. A sturdy mount also provides security to your art and your walls.
7. Keep Away from Heat Sources
Heat can damage wooden art, as can humidity and sunlight. Hanging your wall in areas close to radiators, heaters, or fireplaces can cause the wood to dry up and develop cracks or be brittle. Also, when using a direct heat source, make sure that you keep your furnishings at a safe distance to maintain their lifespan.
Final Thoughts
Wood wall hangings are not merely ornaments but rather pieces of art crafted with the craft, passion, and tradition of a craftsperson. By providing them with the proper treatment, you not only save your investment but also that of the craftsmanship of each piece.
Your wooden wall art will keep adding all the natural warmth and beauty to your home for decades to come. It is an investment that will be paid out with regular dusting, careful positioning, and periodic polishing.
