How to Care for Wormy Chestnut Wood in Your Home

A Practical Guide to Preserving a Rare Piece of American History

Wormy chestnut is more than just wood—it's a legacy. Once a common species in Eastern hardwood forests, American chestnut trees were devastated by blight in the early 20th century. Today, the only way to enjoy chestnut in your home is through reclaimed materials, often marked with the distinctive insect trails that give wormy chestnut its name.

Highly sought-after for its warm tones, rustic character, and historical significance, wormy chestnut adds unmatched charm to mountain homes across Ashe County and the North Carolina High Country. But because it's reclaimed and rare, it deserves special care.

Here’s how to keep your wormy chestnut flooring, beams, furniture, or paneling in top condition for generations to come.

1. Keep It Clean – Gently

Dust regularly with a soft, dry cloth or a microfiber duster. For deeper cleaning, use a slightly damp cloth and avoid harsh chemical cleaners, which can damage the wood’s natural finish.

• Tip: Never use steam mops or soaking wet rags. Reclaimed wood is porous and more sensitive to moisture.

2. Control Humidity in Your Home

Like all natural woods, wormy chestnut expands and contracts with humidity. Fluctuating temperatures and moisture levels can cause warping or cracking over time.

• Ideal conditions: 35–55% relative humidity

• Use humidifiers or dehumidifiers as needed to maintain consistent levels—especially in mountain homes where weather can swing dramatically.

3. Protect from Scratches and Wear

Whether it’s flooring or furniture, wormy chestnut can be softer than newer hardwoods. Prevent wear by:

• Using felt pads under furniture legs

• Laying down rugs or runners in high-traffic areas

• Keeping pet nails trimmed

• Avoiding dragging heavy objects across the surface

4. Refinish with Care

Reclaimed wormy chestnut often comes pre-finished, but over time, you may want to refresh the surface.

• Light sanding and reapplying a natural oil or polyurethane finish can restore luster.

• Always test a small area first to ensure the finish is compatible with the wood’s age and previous treatments.

5. Embrace the Imperfections

Remember—wormy chestnut’s character is in its imperfections: the insect trails, the knots, the aged grain. These features tell a story, and minor cracks or darkened spots are part of its charm, not flaws to fix.

6. Use Local Experts for Restoration

If you’re unsure how to handle damage or refinishing, reach out to a professional with experience in reclaimed wood—especially those familiar with wormy chestnut in Ashe County and the surrounding High Country. Local knowledge goes a long way when it comes to preserving these one-of-a-kind materials.

Timeless Wood, Lasting Value

Wormy chestnut brings warmth, history, and richness to your home. With just a little ongoing care and attention, it will remain a beautiful centerpiece for decades to come.

Looking for reclaimed wormy chestnut or advice on using it in your project?
Contact Mile High Lumber Co, your trusted source for reclaimed wood in Ashe County and across North Carolina’s High Country.