Heirlooms, antiques and other furniture pieces may not be a loss after damage from water, fire or vandalism.

If you’ve experienced a disaster at your home or office, you probably have a million questions and what-ifs running through your head. But this doesn’t have to be one of them: How to save, repair and restore disaster-damaged furniture, heirlooms or antiques.

Common Furniture Damage that Can Be Repaired

The furniture most suitable for repair and restoration includes those pieces made of solid wood, high-quality veneer or other non-porous material. Furniture Medic technicians also apply expert care to antiques and family heirlooms to help restore items with great sentimental value, too.

Some furniture damage may not be visible on the surface — be on the lookout for new changes to your furniture from all angles.

  • Do you notice any changes in appearance? Specifically look for anything that looks like a cloudy spot, bubble or new stain.
  • Do you see or smell mold? Mold often appears in white- or brown-colored blooms.
  • Do you feel any changes in sturdiness or structure? Loose joints, warped or cracked wood, failed glue, drawers that stick or even doors that no longer close can be signs of more extensive damage.

Pay close attention to legs, feet, drawers, doors and the backside of your furniture. These are key places where damage may reveal itself.

How Furniture Repairs Work

Often furniture repairs can take place on-site, either in your home or office, and based on your availability. If the damage is extensive, technicians will safely and securely remove the item to repair off-site, and then return the restored piece to you.

Regardless of repair needed, Furniture Medic technicians thoroughly clean each piece before disaster restoration work begins. Some of the more common furniture repairs include:

  • Structural furniture repair and stabilization
  • Removal of watermarks
  • Precision repairs done in-home or on-site
  • Furniture refinishing, expert color blending and polishing
  • Minor leather and upholstery repairs

Considerations for Filing a Furniture Claim After a Disaster

Though you’ve experienced a disaster at your home or business, restoration and repair of your damaged furniture, antiques or heirlooms may be covered by your insurance policy. To determine if an item is covered on a homeowner or renter policy, it’s helpful to understand the following:

  • What caused the damage? Was it water, fire, vandalism or another source?
  • Was the damage accidental? Or was the source gradual?
  • Did it come from inside your property? Or outside of it?

All insurance policies are unique, and it’s best to reference your individual policy documentation or contact your carrier to understand your options.

To navigate the furniture claims process, Furniture Medic experts work with you and your insurance company to provide proper documentation — including photographs — and claims validation on top of expert repair, saving you time and money (and even a headache or two).

Find a Furniture Restoration and Repair Expert

When it comes to finding a trusted technician to repair your damaged furniture, turn to Furniture Medic to support you every step of the way. Call 1-800-RESPOND, email us at claimscapture@smclean.com or complete the form below to be connected with a certified expert near you.