Classic style with vintage light fixtures.

Vintage light fixtures remind one of the 18th century or even prior to that wherein these fixtures and vintage lamps were vital design elements in the home.

Nowadays though, they are purchased and installed at home primarily for their ability to accent lighting and decor for aesthetic purposes. Only a few tools can double as both functional and home decor. You can even find a wide range of styles to complement any interior design theme.

If you have vintage light fixtures at home or had them handed down to you from past generations, you can opt for restoration since it can prove to be a major savings opportunity. In addition, it makes a great interior accessory especially with the classic feel that they add. But how will you do it? You'd be surprised to find out that you can actually do it on your own without any professional help.

Restoration Process

If the vintage light fixture you have at home is over 50 years old, you may want to consider restoring it so that you can regain full functionality. A proper restoration will not only enable you to enjoy its use at, but it also ensures that the fixture is safe. Giving those vintage lights a “face lift” is a relatively easy task, which enables you to enjoy the aged and classic style that they deliver.

There are three areas that you need to focus on when doing restoration jobs on your vintage light fixtures: the base, the wiring, and the glass shade. Although there are some aspects of the process that may require the help of a professional, you can basically perform the majority of the job on your own. Read more below on how you can restore each aspect to make your light fixture seem brand new.

Base

The base is one of the most basic areas you focus on first when trying to restore a vintage light fixture. Cleaning off the grime is very simple and all you need are water, paste and soda. This mixture should effectively remove any form of dust or dirt that has accumulated in the lighting fixture over the years.

If you intend to apply new paint onto the base, make sure to rough up the surface of the base using fine grade sand paper. To avoid inhaling any lead paint that may still be present on the vintage light fixture, don't forget to wear a mask while you are doing this job. Focus your use of the sand paper against any rust or discoloration you may see. Only when you are satisfied with the sanding job can you begin spraying a new layer of paint or finish into it to restore a vintage look and feel.

Wiring

One of the bigger issues with restoring a vintage light fixture is the wiring system, since most of them no longer work after years of non-use. If you are not at ease with doing electrical works, you can simply bring it to an electrical shop or a nearby electrician to handle the restoration job for you and bring it back to working condition.

Glass Shade

You are lucky if the original glass shade for your vintage light fixture is still intact. All you have to do then is to wipe off the dust and dirt that has accumulated over the years using a soapy water and absorbent cloth to soak in the mixture. Using an ammonia based spray like Windex™ may be all that is necessary. Simply spray it on the glass shade and wipe it off.

If the shade has been broken, you can simply replace it with a new one. You can get lots of choices in antique stores or specialized lighting fixtures shops.

We hope the information in this website was helpful. Check back periodically for additional information on restoring vintage light fixtures.