Should You Restore Antiques?

Needless to say, antiques have special value. Only the fact that they are more than 100 years old, makes them unique and valuable, and not to mention the natural materials and the handcrafting techniques, used for their production. In general, the antiques you can find today have stood the test of time, but some of them not good enough to be put in use without being restored beforehand.

To restore an antique item is not a rocket science, there are many antique restoration Melbourne workshops where you can get help to “revive” your old items’ look. However, before you head to the nearest antique restoration workshop, you need to ask yourself whether it’s a good idea to restore your antique item/s. Yes, restoring an antique item is not always a good idea. This is because of the fact that in most cases, it is the improper restoration the main reason for ruining and decreasing the value of the antique items.

There are more factors you need to consider before you decide whether you should restore certain antique piece or not. Some of the most noteworthy factors, that come into play when determining whether the chances for the restoration process, to increase its value are bigger than the chances to inadvertently destroy its authenticity, and with that diminish its value, are:

Value

According to the antique restoration Melbourne experts, it is the inherent value of an item the most important factor that influences its authenticity and actual value. They say that if it is impossible to restore an antique item without compromising its inherent appeal and value, the best option is to leave it unchanged. As they say, an example for this are the numerous items in the museums that haven’t been restored but still look good by preserving their original beauty. On the other side, if the item is badly damaged a good restoration job can significantly improve its look, return its beauty and with that increase its value.

Extend of Damage

Small damages such as small sun-faded, scratched surface or cracked finish are not issues you should be concerned about. Such minor damages speak of the long life of the item, and in most cases add up to the real antique beauty and value of the item. The antique restoration Melbourne artisans often advice their clients to leave such damages untreated. In situations when there are major damages such as broken or missing parts, bigger cracks or lost original finish, restoration is the most reliable option for improving the look of the item and increasing its value.

Value of Patina

It is the patina the main segment that best speaks of the age and usage of the antique items. The signs of surface wear for many antique dealers and collectors are evidence of longevity and history. Hence, destroying the patina equals to destroying the historic value of the item. If you are unable to estimate the value of the patina of your antique item, ask for a professional help and advice from some of the antique restoration Melbourne professionals.