Specialized Woodworking & Heirloom Repair
in Steamboat Island

Yes, in most cases heirloom furniture with water damage can be successfully restored. Our assessment process examines the extent of damage—surface staining, finish deterioration, veneer bubbling, or structural wood rot. We use specialized drying techniques to stabilize moisture content before beginning restoration work. Finish restoration involves stripping damaged finishes, color matching original stains, and applying hand-rubbed protective coats. Structural integrity is our priority—we repair or replace compromised joints, reinforce weakened areas, and stabilize veneer. Each piece gets a $150 assessment (applied to restoration cost) where we provide honest guidance on feasibility and value of restoration.

D's Custom Woodworks is your local custom wood shop serving Steamboat Island from our Shelton-based workshop. We're just a short drive from Totten Inlet and Skookum Inlet, providing specialized woodworking, heirloom restoration, and custom built-ins for Steamboat Island residents. We offer mobile consultation service—we'll come to your Steamboat Island home to assess furniture, measure for built-ins, or discuss custom projects. Our South Sound craftsmanship focus means personalized service and attention to detail you won't find at big-box stores. Contact us to schedule your free on-site consultation.

A custom built-in project typically takes 6-10 weeks from design consultation to final installation. The design phase (1-2 weeks) includes in-home measurements, style selection, and material choices. Shop fabrication (4-8 weeks) is where we handcraft your built-ins in our Shelton workshop—you're welcome to visit and see progress. On-site installation (1-3 days) depends on project complexity. For example, a simple bookshelf wall takes 1-2 days, while elaborate entertainment centers with fireplace surrounds take 2-3 days. We provide detailed timelines during your consultation and keep you updated throughout the process.

Bespoke (fully custom) cabinetry is built from scratch to your exact specifications—any size, style, material, and detail you want. Semi-custom starts with standard cabinet boxes modified to fit your space with customizable doors, finishes, and some sizing adjustments. Material quality differs significantly: bespoke uses solid hardwood frames, dovetail joinery, and premium plywood carcasses; semi-custom often uses particle board or lower-grade materials. Sizing flexibility is crucial in unique Steamboat Island homes—bespoke fits perfectly regardless of wall angles or ceiling heights. Long-term value: bespoke cabinetry lasts 30-50+ years and can be refinished; semi-custom typically needs replacement after 15-20 years.

We offer both on-site and in-shop furniture repair depending on the work needed. Minor touch-ups—finish repairs, hardware replacement, small scratches—can often be handled on-site at your Steamboat Island home. Major restorations requiring structural work, veneer repair, or complete refinishing are completed in our Shelton shop where we have specialized tools and controlled environment. We provide pick-up and delivery service for Steamboat Island residents—we'll carefully transport your furniture to our shop, complete the restoration, and deliver it back to your home. During the assessment, we'll recommend the best approach for your specific piece.

Steamboat Island's marine climate (high humidity, salt air, temperature fluctuations) requires careful wood selection. We recommend stable hardwoods like Maple, Cherry, and Walnut—these species handle humidity changes without excessive expansion/contraction. Quarter-sawn White Oak is excellent for marine environments due to its tight grain and moisture resistance. All wood is properly acclimated to local humidity levels before construction. We use sustainable PNW species when possible—local Alder, Oregon Walnut, and Pacific Madrone. For exterior or high-moisture areas, we recommend sustainably harvested Western Red Cedar or composite materials. Our custom finishes provide additional moisture protection while showcasing natural beauty.

Absolutely—matching existing millwork in historic Steamboat Island homes is one of our specialties. We use custom knife grinding to replicate historic trim profiles, even complex Victorian or Craftsman details. Species matching ensures new work blends seamlessly—we identify your existing wood and source matching lumber. Our aging and patina matching techniques can make new millwork look original to the home, including hand-applied distressing and custom stain formulations. We work with many Steamboat Island homes featuring unique architectural details, and we take pride in preserving that character while adding functional improvements.

Proper care ensures your custom wood furniture lasts for generations. Cleaning: Use soft, dry microfiber cloths for dusting; avoid harsh chemicals or excessive water. For deeper cleaning, use wood-specific cleaners sparingly. Humidity control: Maintain 40-60% relative humidity—Steamboat Island's marine climate requires monitoring with a hygrometer. Use humidifiers in winter, dehumidifiers in summer. Periodic waxing/oiling: Apply paste wax or furniture oil every 6-12 months depending on use. We recommend products specific to your furniture's finish. Avoid direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and placing hot/wet items directly on wood surfaces. We provide detailed care instructions with every piece and are available for maintenance consultations.