3 Great Wood File Cabinet Tips

Do you own a wood file cabinet or are you looking to purchase one? If you already own one then there are some things that you can do to keep it looking sharp and secure the files that you have inside. If you do not have a wood filing cabinet and want to get the best deal that you can on one these tips will also help you. If you do not want to have to pay someone to install a lock for you or re-stain the wood finish then these tips will help you to get started and will give you guidance on how to do things the right way.

Usually when someone purchases wood file cabinets they use them to put personal and confidential information in them. It is not hard to install a lock on wood filing cabinets if you purchased one without any security features. The first thing that you will need to do is locate the space that should be etched into the metal in the top of the wooden filing cabinet around the top right corner. This is usually placed there as an option to anyone who wants to install a lock. You will need to take a center punch and place it in the center of the cut out and tap the punch with a hammer to knock it out.

You will then put the lock through the hole and turn the key a quarter of turn. You will then install the retaining clip that came with the lock and slide it over the grooves of the lock and make sure that it is flush with the wood file cabinet. Last you will place the linkage piece that came with the lock face down to keep the lock from sliding out of place and then push the square end in the back of the lock. You are now finished with the installation and will be able to lock and unlock your wood filing cabinet anytime that you want to.

If you have noticed that your wood file cabinet is losing it luster then you may want to re-stain it to bring the shine back out. The first thing that you want to do is take the drawers out of your file cabinet. You will also want to remove anything that is not wood such as the handles and the hinges that are attached. Next you will want to apply a coat of paint stripper and let it set for about 20 minutes. Next, remove the old stain with a plastic putty knife until it is all off. Make sure not to use a metal knife or you will scar the cabinet up.

Next, wipe the cabinet clean with a soft cloth until it is back down close to a natural wood finish. Then you will want to start sanding it with 400 grit sandpaper, and go with the grain until the surface is smooth. You will then want to apply a coat of wood conditioner that will help the new stain that you apply soak into the wood a little easier. Make sure to let the conditioner dry before you move to the last step. Finally, you are going to apply a thin coat of stain and let it dry. Keep applying stain until you have achieved the look that you are trying to achieve. You will want to make sure that each coat dries completely before you apply additional coats.

You will find that the most stylish type of wood file cabinet is a wood lateral file cabinet. These are ones that have a horizontal look and sit lower to the ground than a vertical file cabinet. If you are looking for the best place to purchase wood filing cabinets then you will have the best luck by looking around online. You will be able to keep your filing cabinet safe and secure and keep it looking good after you have found the best place to purchase it.