Product Care.

Aging together with beauty—ensuring your furniture develops character alongside your life.

OUR PHILOSOPHY

At Ant.Studio, we believe in creating furniture that endures, serves a purpose, and adapts to your evolving needs. Like the incredible architects that inspired our name, we build with precision and purpose, creating pieces designed to seamlessly integrate into and enhance your daily life.

Our furniture is crafted to be timeless, adaptive, and durable—more than just furniture, they're the backdrop of life's most cherished moments. While our ThermoPine construction can withstand the test of time outdoors, thoughtful seasonal care will ensure these pieces grace your spaces for generations to come.

UNDERSTANDING THERMOWOOD PINE DURABILITY

The Science Behind ThermoPine Excellence

Your Ant.Studio furniture is crafted from thermo-treated pine, a revolutionary material engineered to withstand decades of outdoor exposure. Through our specialized thermal treatment process using steam and pressure, we transform sustainably harvested wood into an exceptionally resilient outdoor material.

Thermopine’s Exeptional Qualities

  • Heat Treatment Process: Wood treated at controlled temperatures (160-230°C) for enhanced durability

  • Chemical-Free Resilience: No harmful preservatives—just natural thermal modification

  • Dimensional Stability: Significantly reduced moisture absorption and movement

  • Natural Resistance: Enhanced resistance to decay, insects, and weathering

  • Time-Tested Durability: Engineered to last decades with proper care

Build to Endure, Enhanced by Care

ThermoPine can absolutely withstand outdoor conditions year-round. However, like any investment piece, seasonal storage during harsh winter months will significantly extend its lifespan and preserve its beauty for even longer enjoyment.

Natural Aging Characteristics:

  • Color Evolution: Graceful transition from rich brown to distinguished silver-grey

  • Surface Development: Enhanced grain expression and refined texture

  • Seasonal Response: Minimal movement due to thermal treatment

  • Character Formation: Development of unique patina and weathered beauty

SEASONAL CARE STRATEGY

Spring: Awakening & Renewal

"Like nature's renewal, your furniture emerges refreshed and ready for new adventures."

Spring Preparation Ritual:

  • Gentle Revival: Clean winter's traces with soft brush and mild soap solution

  • Condition Assessment: Inspect for any changes after winter rest

  • Surface Refresh: Light sanding if desired to restore smooth texture

  • Optional Enhancement: Apply natural oil treatment to maintain rich color

  • Hardware Inspection: Check all connections for winter-related changes

If Stored During Winter:

  • Careful Unveiling: Remove protective coverings and allow natural air circulation

  • Gradual Reintroduction: Allow wood to acclimate to outdoor conditions over several days

  • Fresh Start Clean: Thorough but gentle cleaning to prepare for the season ahead

Summer: Living & Celebrating

"The season of gathering—when your furniture becomes the stage for life's precious moments."

Active Season Care:

  • Weekly Attention: Light cleaning to remove pollen, dust, and everyday use traces

  • Immediate Response: Prompt cleanup of spills to prevent unnecessary staining

  • Comfort Maintenance: Ensure surfaces remain smooth and pleasant to touch

  • Shade Consideration: Rotate furniture occasionally for even weathering if desired

  • Daily Appreciation: Enjoy watching your furniture develop its unique character

Autumn: Preparation & Protection

"Like the methodical preparation of our ant architects, autumn care sets the foundation for longevity."

End-of-Season Care:

  • Thorough Cleaning: Deep clean to remove summer's accumulation of use and weather

  • Condition Evaluation: Assess any maintenance needs before winter decision

  • Storage Preparation: Clean and prepare furniture for optimal winter storage

  • Final Treatment: Consider protective oil application before storage period

Winter: Protection & Preservation

"In winter's rest, thoughtful protection ensures decades of future enjoyment."

Recommended Winter Storage (Optimal Longevity):

  • Dry Storage: Move furniture to garage, shed, or covered outdoor area

  • Proper Stacking: Stack similar pieces with protective material between surfaces

  • Air Circulation: Ensure storage area allows air movement around pieces

  • Climate Control: Avoid extreme temperature fluctuations in storage area

  • Accessibility: Store where you can check periodically during winter months

Alternative: Outdoor Winter Protection:

While ThermoPine can remain outdoors year-round, protection extends lifespan:

  • Quality Covers: Use only breathable, waterproof furniture covers

  • Elevated Placement: Raise furniture slightly off wet surfaces

  • Drainage Attention: Ensure excellent water drainage around furniture

  • Regular Monitoring: Check monthly for any issues with covers or placement

MATERIAL-SPECIFIC CARE GUIDE

Understanding Durability Phases

ThermoPine's exceptional durability develops through distinct aging phases:

Phase 1: Initial Strength (0-12 months)

  • Maximum structural integrity from thermal treatment

  • Rich, warm brown coloration from heat modification

  • Minimal seasonal movement compared to untreated wood

  • Surface hardness at peak levels

Phase 2: Character Development (1-3 years)

  • Beautiful patina formation begins

  • Enhanced weather resistance continues

  • Surface texture refinement through natural weathering

  • Color evolution toward distinguished grey tones

Phase 3: Mature Excellence (3+ years)

  • Stable, weathered character with maximum beauty

  • Proven durability through seasonal cycles

  • Distinguished silver-grey patina fully developed

  • Enhanced resistance to further weathering

Longevity Enhancement Options

Maximum Lifespan Approach (Recommended):

  • Winter Storage: Store in dry, ventilated space during harsh months

  • Annual Treatment: Apply quality outdoor wood oil each spring

  • Protective Covering: Use breathable covers during extreme weather

  • Expected Lifespan: 20-30+ years with exceptional appearance retention

Natural Weathering Approach:

  • Year-Round Outdoor: Allow complete natural aging process

  • Minimal Intervention: Clean seasonally, no additional treatments

  • Authentic Patina: Full development of natural silver-grey character

  • Expected Lifespan: 15-20+ years with beautiful weathered appearance

Professional Care Process

Materials for Optimal Care:

  • Soft natural-fiber brush (boar bristle or similar)

  • pH-neutral wood cleaner designed for thermowood

  • Premium outdoor wood oil (penetrating, not film-forming)

  • Microfiber cloths for application and buffing

  • Clean water for rinsing

Comprehensive Care Steps:

  • Surface Preparation: Remove all debris, leaves, and loose material

  • Deep Cleaning: Apply specialized wood cleaner with soft brush, working with grain

  • Thorough Rinsing: Remove all cleaning residue with abundant clean water

  • Complete Drying: Allow 24-48 hours for thorough moisture evaporation

  • Treatment Application: Apply thin, even coat of premium wood oil if desired

  • Penetration Time: Allow oil to fully penetrate according to manufacturer specifications

  • Final Buffing: Remove excess oil with clean cloth for smooth finish

PRECISION HARDWARE CARE

Stainless Steel Excellence

Your Ant.Studio furniture features carefully selected marine-grade stainless steel hardware, chosen for its exceptional longevity and corrosion resistance.

Seasonal Hardware Maintenance:

  • Spring Inspection: Check all connections after winter storage or exposure

  • Mid-Season Tightening: Ensure all fasteners remain properly secured

  • Pre-Storage Check: Verify hardware condition before winter storage

  • Annual Replacement: Replace any hardware showing unusual wear or corrosion

STORAGE GUIDELINES FOR MAXIMUM LONGEVITY

Ideal Storage Conditions

  • Temperature: Stable, avoiding extreme fluctuations

  • Humidity: Moderate levels with good air circulation

  • Ventilation: Adequate airflow around stored pieces

  • Protection: Away from direct moisture contact

  • Accessibility: Easy to check and maintain during storage

Storage Preparation Process

  • Thorough Cleaning: Complete cleaning and drying before storage

  • Oil Treatment: Apply protective oil treatment for storage protection

  • Hardware Check: Ensure all connections are secure

  • Protective Padding: Use soft materials between stacked pieces

  • Documentation: Note storage date and condition for spring reference

Storage Space Options

  • Garage Storage: Unheated but dry garage with good ventilation

  • Garden Shed: Well-ventilated shed with moisture protection

  • Covered Patio: Protected outdoor area with excellent drainage

  • Basement: Only if completely dry with adequate ventilation

UNDERSTANDING THERMOWOOD PERFORMANCE

What's Normal vs. Concerning

Normal ThermoPine Behavior (No Action Needed):

  • Micro-Checking: Tiny surface cracks that open/close seasonally

  • Color Transition: Gradual change from brown to silver-grey

  • Surface Smoothing: Natural texture refinement over time

  • Minor End Splits: Small cracks at board ends (typical in all wood)

  • Surface Grain Raise: Slight texture changes after moisture exposure

  • Seasonal Tightening: Minor joint movement with temperature changes

  • Patina Variations: Different weathering rates on various surfaces

Contact Your Dealer:

  • Deep Structural Cracks: Splits wider than 4mm that don't close seasonally

  • Hardware Failure: Bent, broken, or severely loosened connections

  • Joint Separation: Any loosening of structural connections

  • Safety Concerns: Sharp edges, instability, or other hazards

INVESTMENT PROTECTION PHILOSOPHY

Cost-Benefit of Care

  • Minimal Care Investment: A few hours per season

  • Longevity Return: Decades of extended lifespan

  • Beauty Preservation: Maintained appearance and character

  • Value Protection: Preserved investment value over time

Long-Term Perspective

Your Ant.Studio furniture represents a significant investment in quality, design, and craftsmanship. While ThermoPine's exceptional durability means it can withstand decades of outdoor exposure, the small effort of seasonal storage and proper care will reward you with:

  • Extended Lifespan: Additional decades of use

  • Enhanced Beauty: Better preservation of natural character

  • Reduced Maintenance: Less intensive care needed over time

  • Investment Protection: Maintained value and appearance

For immediate assistance with maintenance questions.

Ant.Studio Direct Support:

Email: info@antstudio.be

Website: www.antstudio.be

Social: @antstudio.be

EMBRACING LONGEVITY

The Beauty of Time and Care

Your Ant.Studio furniture is built to last generations, developing authentic character through decades of use. Like the remarkable ant colonies that inspired our name, proper care creates structures that endure and flourish over time.

Your Partnership in Longevity

Through thoughtful seasonal care and storage, you become a partner in extending your furniture's lifespan. Each season of proper care adds years to its life, ensuring these pieces can be passed down through generations as treasured family heirlooms.

The Reward of Investment

The small effort invested in proper care yields tremendous returns:

  • Decades of Enjoyment: years of beautiful, functional furniture

  • Character Development: Authentic patina and weathered beauty

  • Memory Creation: A backdrop for generations of family moments

  • Environmental Stewardship: Maximizing the lifespan of responsibly sourced materials

At Ant.Studio, we build furniture capable of withstanding the test of time. Your thoughtful care transforms this capability into reality, ensuring decades of tomorrow's memories while honoring the craftsmanship and materials in every piece.

"Built to endure the ages, enhanced by your care."