Home Improvement Ideas

Pine is a very strong wood and so is ideal for bookshelves, which need to withstand heavy weights over long periods of time. However, like all wood, it needs to be maintained and cared for properly to remain in optimum condition. Below are some tips for caring for your pine bookcases or shelves, to keep them looking tiptop.

Although it is a very strong material, pine is actually a soft wood which can be affected by temperature changes. Consequently, an even room temperature should be maintained at all times where possible. You should also avoid installing your bookcase too close to a radiator or heater. Nevertheless, if you choose the Shelfstore system for bookshelves in a cold room, such as a garage or external office, for example, you shouldn’t worry. The wood used comes from Northern Scandinavia, where it is used to colder climates and has naturally developed into a tougher timber as a result.

Cleaning your bookshelves should be done with a dry duster, and never any soap or water, which can damage the surface of the furniture. Do not use any aerosol sprays or other kinds of manmade furniture polish or cleaning products either. If you are unsure about using a particular product, always try it on a small part of the furniture first, such as the back or on a shelf which will remain permanently covered. The Shelfstore system comes ready varnished, but will need re-varnishing from time to time to keep it looking smart.