Michigan State University Extension
Home Maintenance And Repair - 01500260
06/24/03

Wood Furniture-Repairing Dents


Dents are depressed layers of wood caused by hard
impacts. They can be raised back to original level by
steam. Place several layers of damp fabric or damp, brown
wrapping paper over the dent. Touch the fabric or paper
with a warm iron. The steam will cause the wood fibers to
swell back into place. It may be necessary to repeat this
process until the dented area is level with the surface
around it. Allow the area to dry.

Since the steam opens the wood pores, sand the area
thoroughly to "repack" the grain. If you don't, the area
will absorb more stain and have an uneven color.

NOTE--Don't use this treatment on veneers. The steam
can soften the glue under the veneer and cause it to come
loose. Also, be careful when applying steam near joints
because the glue there can soften, also.
When an impact has been great enough to cut through
the wood fibers, steam and heat will not repair the
damage. Fill the dent with a wood filler to make it
level. Follow directions on the package.

This article was written by Anne Field, Extension
Specialist, Emeritus with references from Wisconsin
Extension bulletin, Care and Cleaning of Upholstered
Furniture.

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