Ask ADAM: The Expert Advice
Q&A
Dear
Sir or Madam:
I
purchased an antique oak cupboard from a dealer about 18
months ago. Recently, the piece started making noises, and
after consulting with an exterminator, it turns out that
the piece has powder post beetles. Apparently, they have
a life cycle of several years, and infestations may not
become evident for some time after purchasing the piece.
I
called the dealer to discuss the situation, and she stated
that the antiques are sold "as is" and that the
buyer assumes the risk of defects and should inspect the
piece carefully. Is this the view of your group?
How
does one inspect for evidence of insects that live deep
inside the wood and eat their way out? Do I have any
recourse in this situation?
I
greatly appreciate your input. I feel very hesitant to even
consider buying any antiques again, and may just stick to
reproductions.
Thank
you, Amy Lusby, MD
Dear
Amy,
The
web master for the Antique Dealers Association of Maryland,
forwarded your e-mail to me as I am a furniture dealer specializing
in European furnishings.
To
address the problem of wood worm, the little munchers you
are dealing with, don't despair; they are very curable.
Europe and England has always dealt with these little critters
for centuries, and the states, although less common here,
has their fair share. The problem with these wood borers
is that they have very good taste in their chosen wood,
therefore you may find them in mahogany, walnut, oak, pine
and any fine cabinetry wood. The older the piece of furniture,
the more evidence you are likely to see. It is true that
they can lay dormant for many years before becoming active
again. With this in mind, no matter how careful a dealer
might be to avoid a piece with live activity, it may appear
at a later time. My feeling is to treat any piece if wood
worm is apparent and be done with it-a lovely piece of antique
furniture will last well in to the future where the pesky
little critter will not.
What
to do:
Rent A Kill-made by an English firm, makes an easy to use
liquid that usually works with one or two applications.
This can be done inside with some ventilation. All you do
is protect your floors with newspaper or drop cloth under
the area you will be treating. Apply the liquid with a brush,
taking care to let it run in to any holes you may see. It
will dry in a few hours; leave it for two weeks; then tap
the area to see if new wood dust appears. If so, repeat
the process-if not-that's the end of it. Rent A kill can
be found in better hardware stores.
I
am sorry the dealer you purchased your piece of furniture
from wasn't more helpful; possibly she did not know quite
what to do about it. As all antique furniture requires a
bit attention over the years, from re-gluing to re-polishing,
treating wood worm is nothing more than taking care of an
old piece of furniture. Remember, buying a reproduction
is for those who want a perfect antique look alike rather
than the real thing.
I
hope this has been of some assistance to you. Please feel
free to call my store anytime should you require further
information.
Sincerely,
Sandra Ellington Onslow Square Antiques 301-530-9393
Continued
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