How do I clean a solid wood dining surface?

Wipe the timber gently using a slightly damp cloth to remove daily dust and spills without damaging the aged patina. Avoid harsh chemical sprays and apply natural beeswax periodically to nourish the dry grain.

Can I seat eight people comfortably for dinner?

Many refectory and extending formats provide generous lengths designed specifically to accommodate large gatherings with ease. Check the clearance beneath the aprons and between the trestles to ensure adequate legroom for chairs.

What is the difference between an 18th-century piece and an Edwardian revival?

Earlier examples display hand-Hewn tool marks, pegged joinery, and natural timber wear accumulated over centuries of domestic service. Edwardian reproductions utilise machinery-assisted precision while copying historical Jacobean and Georgian stylistic motifs.

Will an antique timber surface warp near radiators?

Solid wood responds to sudden changes in household humidity and central heating by expanding or contracting slightly. Keep tables away from direct heat sources and maintain stable room conditions to protect the historical joins.