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It is often worthwhile to refinish or restore furniture, especially for high-quality, older, antique, or sentimental pieces. Older furniture tends to have better durability than modern, mass-produced items, and refinishing can cost about one-third of the price of replacement. To determine if it's cost-effective, compare quotes from local refinishing services with the price of a new, similar piece. Refinishing can refresh a piece's look and extend its lifespan. However, it may not be worth it for newer furniture made of medium-density fiberboard (MDF) or plywood, or for items with major structural damage. A professional can help you assess the piece and decide on the best course of action.

Wood filler is used to fix imperfections or damaged interior sections of wood on items like cabinets, door frames, and even laminate floors or countertops. It contains wood byproducts like sawdust mixed with water or solvent, which helps bind to wood and dry pretty quickly.

It is generally worth repairing leather furniture rather than replacing it, as it is typically more affordable and the material tends to retain its value. A typical repair averages around $250, which is significantly less than the thousands of dollars a replacement could cost. Even a full reupholstering, which can cost up to $4,000, may still be more economical than buying new. With proper care, repaired leather furniture can last for many years, making the investment worthwhile. However, if the underlying structure or frame of the furniture is damaged or malfunctioning, replacement might be a better option. The quality of the leather and the furniture piece are also important factors. For a definitive answer, it is best to consult a leather repair professional to assess your specific situation.

If your drawer slides are made of metal or plastic, it’s best to use white lithium grease to lubricate them. The dense formula of that compound creates long-lasting results and should prevent you from having to re-grease the drawer slides frequently. Test the white lithium grease on a small, less-visible area of the slides first to ensure it doesn’t damage the finish before applying to the entire fixture.