How to Care for and Maintain Your Timber Veneer Products

Timber veneer is a popular choice in Australian homes and commercial spaces for its natural beauty, versatility, and cost-effectiveness. Whether it’s your kitchen cabinetry, a feature wall, or custom office furniture, timber veneer products require proper care to maintain their look and longevity. While veneers are generally low maintenance, a little extra attention can go a long way in preserving their elegance for years to come. Here’s a comprehensive guide to caring for and maintaining your timber veneer products.

Why Proper Care is Important

Timber veneer, like solid wood, is a natural material, and its organic composition means it can be sensitive to environmental factors such as moisture, sunlight, and heat. However, with some simple maintenance practices, you can keep your veneer surfaces looking as stunning as the day they were installed.

Cleaning Timber Veneer: The Basics

Keeping your veneer surfaces clean is the first step to maintaining their beauty.

Dust Regularly: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to remove dust. Microfibre cloths work well, as they trap dust without scratching the surface. Regular dusting prevents debris from building up and dulling the veneer’s finish.
Wipe with Care: For routine cleaning, dampen a soft cloth with warm water and gently wipe the surface. Avoid using excessive water, as veneers are bonded to substrates that can be damaged by prolonged exposure to moisture.

Mild Cleaning Solutions: If necessary, use a gentle, pH-neutral cleaner diluted in water. Steer clear of harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning agents, as they can strip the veneer’s finish.

Preventing Damage

To keep your timber veneer products looking pristine, it’s essential to protect them from potential damage caused by environmental factors and daily use.

1. Control Moisture

Timber veneer is not entirely water-resistant, so avoid letting water or other liquids sit on the surface for extended periods.
In areas like kitchens and bathrooms, consider choosing moisture-resistant veneers bonded to water-resistant substrates, such as those found in our Evo Veneer range.

2. Avoid Direct Sunlight

Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause veneers to fade or discolour over time.
Use curtains, blinds, or UV-blocking window films to protect veneered surfaces in sunlit areas.

3. Shield from Heat

Avoid placing hot items, such as pots, pans, or appliances, directly on veneer surfaces. Use heat-resistant mats or trivets to prevent damage.
For office furniture, keep laptops or other heat-generating devices on stands or pads to avoid heat marks.

4. Be Gentle

Use coasters and placemats on veneered tables to protect them from scratches and spills.
Avoid dragging heavy objects across veneered surfaces, as this can cause dents or scratches.

Long-Term Maintenance

Over time, timber veneer products may require occasional touch-ups or refinishing to maintain their appearance.

1. Polishing and Refinishing

Veneer surfaces that have lost their sheen can often be restored with a high-quality furniture polish. Choose a product that’s specifically designed for wood veneers and avoid silicone-based polishes, which can leave a residue.
If your veneer has a significant scratch or dull area, you may need to sand lightly and reapply a protective finish. For natural veneer, this can be done with oil, wax, or lacquer, depending on the original finish.

2. Repairing Scratches or Chips

Minor scratches can often be disguised with wood repair markers that match the veneer’s colour.

For deeper scratches or chips, consider consulting a professional or your supplier. Some veneers, like those in the Evo Veneer range, offer greater durability and scratch resistance, making maintenance easier over time.

Caring for Pre-Finished Veneer

If you’ve opted for pre-finished veneer, such as Bord’s Evo Veneer, you’re already a step ahead in terms of ease of maintenance. These veneers come with a durable, factory-applied finish that eliminates the need for additional sanding, polishing, or sealing. However, the same basic care principles—avoiding moisture, direct sunlight, and heat—apply to keep your surfaces looking their best.

Why Maintenance Matters for Australians

Australia’s unique climate, with its high humidity in Queensland and dry conditions in South Australia, can be tough on wood products. Proper care ensures that your timber veneer products withstand these challenges while continuing to enhance your space. Additionally, investing time in maintenance preserves the sustainability of your materials, reducing the need for replacements and extending the life of your products.

The Bord Difference

At Bord, we’re committed to providing premium timber veneers that combine style, sustainability, and durability. Whether you’ve chosen a natural veneer like blackwood or a pre-finished product from our Evo Veneer range, our materials are designed to stand the test of time with proper care.

We also back our products with certifications like FSC®, PEFC, and Responsible Wood, ensuring they are sustainably sourced and environmentally friendly. When you choose Bord veneers, you’re not only investing in beautiful, high-quality materials but also supporting sustainable practices.

Timber veneer products are an excellent choice for achieving a luxurious, natural look in both residential and commercial spaces. With the right care, they’ll remain a beautiful and sustainable feature of your interiors for years to come.

Whether it’s dusting, protecting against moisture, or touching up scratches, maintaining your veneer surfaces is straightforward and well worth the effort. If you have any questions about caring for your Bord veneers or want to learn more about our range of products, get in touch with us today. Let’s make your space—and your veneers—shine!