Antique
Stove Restoration
The
Restoration Process
Usually the restoration procedure involves a
complete disassembly, sandblasting, and a close
inspection of the castings and sheet metal.
Sometimes a stove in relatively good condition
doesn't need sandblasting. In that case I don't do
it because sandblasting may even devalue the
stove's antique worth by destroying the original
surface finish, especially if it is "Blue Steel"
(a shiny dark blue sheet metal that is really
beautiful).
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Before
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After
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Guelph Acme
Range, c.1915
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If the
castings are cracked or broken they are welded
(see Cast Iron Welding).
If any pieces need to be recast at the foundry
then the pattern work is completed quickly and
sent out, because it can take a while to get them
back.
If the
nickel needs replating then the brightwork is sent
out with instructions. It may be possible to buff
out the original nickel even if it looks bad. The
finished stove may look better with salvaged
plating than with new nickel. New nickel is often
harsh in appearance and antique connoisseurs
prefer the softer, satiny look of the original
plating. The customer saves a bundle, too!
After all
the pieces are repaired then the stove is
assembled for a "dry fit". After any necessary
adjustments are made, the stove is cemented and
bolted up for the final assembly.
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Before
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After
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Black Giant
Box Heater, dated 1858
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I usually
paint the stove with two coats of high temperature
paint to seal it against water damage. And last,
the stove is polished for that gleam which brings
it to life!
Types of
Restoration
I generalize my restoration work into several
categories:
- MUSEUM
RESTORATION emphasizes the preservation of
original material. I usually document the work
with photographs and supply a report.
- CUSTOM
RESTORATION allows for alterations to suit
the customer's wishes. This may include the
addition of warming ovens, towel bars, extra
nickel, or personalized touches.
- COMMERCIAL
RESTORATION assumes a market value then
proceeds to finish the stove within the budgetary
limit
A
reconstructed sheet metal body for a "steel range"
complete with rivets
Contract
Before any work is started for a customer we fill
out a contract form with details of the work and
payments. Normally I require the cost of materials
as the down payment and the balance is due when the
stove is picked up or delivered. Generally, the term
for a contract is four months, which allows for the
plating and foundry work to be sent out. At this
time my general restoration work is charged at a
rate of $25/hour, welding at $30/hour.
Canadian Antique Stoves
PO Box 673, Kaslo, BC, Canada, V0G 1M0
Phone 1-250-353-9648
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