How do I clean a rustic oak plank table?

Wipe surfaces using a damp cloth without harsh chemical detergents. Regular dusting keeps the timber grain clear. Apply natural beeswax periodically to nourish the dry oak and maintain the historical patina.

Can I seat eight people comfortably?

Many refectory and farmhouse tables accommodate eight to ten diners due to their generous length. Leg placement determines whether chairs tuck underneath properly. Measure the clearance between trestle ends or table legs before purchasing matching seating.

What causes gaps between the planks?

Solid wood expands and contracts with changes in room humidity and central heating. Seasonal movement is entirely natural for timber tables. These minor gaps reflect the authentic behaviour of unveneered oak over many decades.

How do I identify an eighteenth century table?

Examine the underside for traditional hand-cut joinery marks and pegged joints. Eighteenth century examples show genuine wear patterns along the edges. Tool marks and timber shrinkage offer reliable clues to the age of the oak boards.