Nothing makes a statement in your home quite like an elegant chandelier, creating a stunning focal point in any room. Today's chandeliers are available in a multitude of styles ranging from traditional to contemporary, and will add an instant touch of class to your property. A top quality chandelier is a solid investment, beautifying your home for a lifetime, but it is extremely important to take good care of it. Certain companies specialize in the restoration, cleaning and rewiring of chandeliers, whether a family heirloom or a new purchase. If you have an antique chandelier you may discover that it is missing a few crystals. Experts will be able to source matching crystals (or something very close) to complete your chandelier. While you may be under the impression that your chandelier is beyond repair, specialists are able to restore it to its former glory with replacement crystals and a thorough clean. The chandelier may be old but that adds to the beauty and the value.
No matter what style of chandelier you have, it is of utmost importance that you keep it in good condition. A dirty chandelier quickly loses its lustre and sparkle; the build-up of dust and grime reducing its ability to reflect the light. While the process of disassembling and cleaning a chandelier might seem a little overwhelming, by carefully following a few easy steps it's really rather simple. To begin with, make a note or put together a diagram of the exact position of each crystal. Most chandeliers come equipped with a 'map', but if not, you will have to do this yourself. It's also a good idea to take a couple of photos from different angles. Place a thick towel on the bottom of a sink and carefully remove the individual crystals or strands. Gently place the crystals on the towel and fill the sink with warm soapy water. After washing the crystals, rinse in clear water and dry each individual piece with a soft, clean cloth. Avoid using paper towels as they will leave lint on the crystals and may even scratch the surface. Once your chandelier is re-assembled you will be amazed at the difference, the luminous facets of each crystal glistening brilliantly in the light. To maintain the look of your chandelier and keep it in tip-top condition, clean it every couple of months with a micro fibre or feather duster; this will prevent the grime from building up once again. That being said, if you aren't 100% sure of what you are doing or if your chandelier consists of thousands of intricate pieces, it's a good idea to use a professional cleaner. There are some good companies out there who offer a top quality cleaning service, restoring your much loved chandelier to its original glory.
At some point you may need to rewire your chandelier, especially if it's an antique. Damaged wires are potentially dangerous, especially in an older model. While it might be tempting to undertake the job yourself, unless you have extensive electrical experience, it probably isn't a good idea! After dismantling the chandelier, you may discover that you can't even find the correct electrical components for the job, or how to rewire it correctly. But do not worry if you do not have the expertise to tackle the job yourself then just consult one of the expert firms.
So if your once magnificent chandelier has seen better days get moving and have it expertly restored and repaired. You will be amazed by the transformation and this work of art can then bring many more years of elegant charm to your home.