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Give New Life To Fine
Furniture
Recycling, reusing, refurbishing and repurposing
are the latest trend, according to Troy Parker,
co-owner of Furniture Medic by Dream Polishers.
“With everyone going green,” says Troy. “People
are using their great furniture pieces
differently. For example, I am turning a beloved
dresser into a bathroom vanity for one of my
clients.”
Recycling office furniture is gaining popularity
with businesses, too, according to Troy. “I am
refinishing some beautiful wooden desks for a bank
that is designing a totally green building. They
will get a tax credit for recycling the wooden
desks.”
Eco-Friendly Finishes
Being eco-friendly encompasses many things. With
furniture, Troy says, “Beyond recycling, it’s
important to reduce the use of chemicals and
pollutants. If you care about the environment,
request water-based finishes. Especially if you
have any allergies, because a solvent-based finish
continues to emit fumes even after it dries.”
Another way Furniture Medic reduces its imprint on
the environment is by using a spray booth designed
to filter all spray particles and toxins out of
the air. “Rest assured,” she adds, “we always
dispose of all our chemicals in the proper way.”
Insurance Inspections
Furniture Medic specializes in water damage, fire
damage, minor fabrication and refinishing,
according to Troy, who says that prior to owning
Furniture Medic by Dream Polishers, she and her
husband Jack Parker, and partner LaDonna Haywood,
were in the insurance business. “Now,” she says,
“we do damage inspections and repairs for both
homeowners and insurance companies.”
Repairs
Furniture Medic by Dream Polishers does small,
simple repairs as well as larger more complex
fabrication projects. “We tighten up, replace and
re-glue everything from chair backs, legs and
casters to structural repairs on larger pieces
including desks, vanities and couches.” Troy also
does intricate repairs on fine porcelain pieces
such as antique vases and dolls as well as pressed
and hand-woven cane repair.
“We also work with many ‘do-it-yourselfers,’ who
like to refinish their own furniture,” says Troy.
“For example, we might repair a piece and strip
off the old finish, and then leave the final
finishing to the customer. We also specialize in
hard-to-find hardware, casters and hinges. LaDonna
is an expert researcher, so she can find specialty
items and order them for our customers.”
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Whether you are looking for simple repairs,
restoration of treasures, or answers to your
furniture-related questions, the folks at
Furniture Medic by Dream Polishers are available
to help you enjoy your wood furnishings for years
to come.
Troy advises, “In our throw-away society, if you
have high quality wood furniture, keep it. We can
help you refinish it and give it new life.
Together, we can save some trees and be kinder to
our planet!”
Troy Parker inspects an old Victrola
Troy Parker lovingly sands a
porcelain doll she is repairing.
Written and Photographed
by Tami Patzer
Printed April 2009
Web June 2009
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