Live Edge Maintenance: How to Care for Live Edge Wood Furniture

mwcms on March 28, 2025

At Colorado Wood & Metal, we believe that every live edge wood piece is more than just furniture—it’s a story captured in grain, shape, and craftsmanship. Whether it’s a custom dining table, floating shelf, or statement coffee table, your live edge piece deserves to look its best for years to come. That’s why understanding live edge maintenance is essential.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to care for live edge wood, including regular upkeep, cleaning techniques, and what to avoid, so your handcrafted piece stays beautiful for generations.

Why Live Edge Maintenance Matters

Live edge wood furniture keeps the natural shape of the tree, preserving the unique curves, bark, and personality of the wood. Because of this organic form, it often reacts more noticeably to environmental factors like humidity, sunlight, and spills. Proper care is key to maintaining both its beauty and structural integrity.

1. Daily & Weekly Cleaning for Live Edge Wood

Dust regularly with a soft, lint-free cloth—microfiber is your best friend here. This helps prevent buildup that can dull the wood over time.

For deeper cleaning, lightly dampen your cloth with water or a wood-safe cleaner. Be sure to avoid harsh chemicals, ammonia-based products, or anything abrasive. These can strip away the finish and damage the wood’s surface.

👉 Pro Tip: Always wipe in the direction of the grain, and follow up with a dry cloth to remove any moisture.

2. Preserving the Finish: Oil or Wax

If your live edge piece was finished with natural oils or waxes (like many of ours at Colorado Wood & Metal), it’s important to reapply those finishes periodically.

  • For oil-finished pieces, consider refreshing the surface every 6–12 months using products like tung oil or mineral oil. Just apply with a soft cloth, let it soak, and wipe off any excess.
  • For wax finishes, a thin layer of paste wax can help restore sheen and add protection. Buff gently with a clean cloth afterward.

This not only enhances the grain but also forms a protective barrier against moisture and wear.

3. Controlling the Environment

Live edge wood can expand and contract with temperature and humidity changes. To reduce stress on the wood:

  • Maintain indoor humidity between 35–55%.
  • Avoid placing furniture in direct sunlight or near heat sources like vents and fireplaces.
  • Use coasters and placemats to prevent rings, stains, and heat damage.

One of the easiest live edge maintenance tips is a stable environment that keeps your wood from cracking, warping, or splitting—especially in Colorado’s dry climate.

4. Protecting the Bark Edge

One of the most distinctive features of live edge furniture is the exposed bark or raw edge. While stunning, it’s more vulnerable to wear.

  • Avoid bumping or scratching this area, especially if it’s not sealed.
  • Dust gently with a soft brush to keep debris out of crevices.
  • If your bark starts to loosen, don’t attempt to glue it yourself—contact a professional (like us!) for advice or repair.

5. What to Avoid with Live Edge Maintenance

When it comes to live edge maintenance, less is more. Avoid:

  • Saturating with water
  • Using all-purpose or glass cleaners
  • Harsh scrubbers or steel wool
  • Leaving spills to sit (especially wine, coffee, or oil-based liquids)

These can lead to permanent stains, finish breakdown, or warping.

Trust Your Piece to Last

At Colorado Wood & Metal, we build each live edge piece with longevity in mind, using kiln-dried slabs and expert craftsmanship to ensure it stands the test of time. But a little care from you goes a long way.

Whether you picked up a rustic dining table, a modern shelf, or a custom commission from our workshop, regular live edge maintenance helps preserve its natural beauty and keeps your investment looking stunning year after year.

Need More Help with Live Edge Maintenance or Want to Refresh Your Finish?
Give us a call or stop by the shop—we’re always happy to offer product recommendations or even bring your piece back in for touch-ups.

Your wood, your story—let’s keep it looking its best.

The Best Source for Reclaimed Barn Wood in the Front Range

mwcms on November 27, 2024

When it comes to creating unique, sustainable designs that add character to any space, reclaimed barn wood stands out as an unbeatable choice. For homeowners, DIY enthusiasts, and businesses in Colorado’s Front Range, finding high-quality reclaimed materials can be a challenge. That’s where Colorado Wood & Metal comes in. This family-owned business offers an extensive selection of reclaimed materials, making it the go-to destination for anyone looking to infuse their projects with rustic charm and sustainable style.

Why Choose Reclaimed Barn Wood?

reclaimed barn wood

Reclaimed barn wood is much more than a design trend—it’s a material with a rich history. Salvaged from old barns, factories, and other historic structures, it brings natural beauty and unmatched durability to modern spaces. The weathered textures and unique patinas of reclaimed wood ensure that no two pieces are alike, creating a story behind every beam or plank.

In addition to its aesthetic appeal, reclaimed barn wood is an eco-friendly option. By repurposing existing materials, you help reduce the demand for newly harvested lumber, minimizing the environmental impact of your project. It’s a sustainable way to combine creativity with conscientious design.

How Reclaimed Wood Elevates Your Space

Whether you’re working on a home renovation, building custom furniture, or designing a commercial space, reclaimed barn wood offers endless possibilities:

  • Home Remodels: Use to add warmth and texture to walls, ceilings, or floors. An accent wall can become a striking focal point in living rooms, bedrooms, or entryways.
  • Custom Furniture: Craft one-of-a-kind tables, benches, or shelving units that tell a story through their weathered charm.
  • Commercial Design: Impress customers with unique, sustainable design elements that set your business apart.

Creative Applications

Wondering how to incorporate reclaimed wood into your project? Here are some innovative ideas:

  1. Accent Walls: Transform plain interiors into inviting spaces with barn wood planks that exude natural charm.
  2. Outdoor Features: Create pergolas, garden planters, or fences that blend seamlessly with the natural environment.
  3. Furniture with a Story: Build a dining table, headboard, or coffee table that becomes the centerpiece of your home.

By using reclaimed barn wood, you’re not just adding style—you’re preserving a piece of history.

Colorado Wood & Metal: Your Trusted Reclaimed Wood Source

If you’re in the Front Range, Colorado Wood & Metal is your ultimate source for reclaimed barn wood and other repurposed materials. Their mission is to bring the beauty and sustainability of reclaimed wood to every project, no matter the scale.

Here’s why they’re the leading choice for reclaimed materials in the Front Range:

  • Extensive Selection: Their inventory includes a wide range of reclaimed wood options, from weathered barn wood to hand-hewn beams, perfect for projects big and small.
  • Sustainability Focus: Every piece of wood is carefully sourced and repurposed to reduce waste and environmental impact.
  • Customization Services: Colorado Wood & Metal can cut, plane, and finish wood to meet your specific needs, ensuring your materials are ready for use when you pick them up.

Their knowledgeable team is passionate about helping customers find the right wood for their projects, whether it’s a rustic coffee table or a complete home remodel.

Why Colorado Wood & Metal Stands Out

Choosing Colorado Wood & Metal means you’re working with a company that values quality, sustainability, and customer satisfaction. With a curated selection of reclaimed barn wood, they make it easy to find materials that match your vision while contributing to a greener future.

Bring Your Vision to Life

Ready to transform your space with the timeless beauty of reclaimed wood? Visit Colorado Wood & Metal to explore their extensive inventory today. Whether you need raw materials for a DIY project or custom-cut beams for a large renovation, their team is here to help.

Stop by their showroom in the Front Range or visit them online at cowoodandmetal.com. Discover how Colorado Wood & Metal can bring warmth, character, and sustainability to your home or project.

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mwcms on November 15, 2023

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