Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about our custom furniture process, materials, pricing, and more.

Our Process

How long does the custom furniture process take?

The timeline for custom furniture varies depending on the complexity of the design, current workshop schedule, and the specific timber selected. Generally, the process takes 8-12 weeks from initial consultation to delivery. This includes design development (2-3 weeks), material selection and procurement (1-2 weeks), crafting (4-6 weeks), and finishing (1-2 weeks).

We'll provide you with a detailed timeline during our initial consultation and keep you updated throughout the process.

How much input do I have in the design process?

You have as much input as you'd like! Our process is highly collaborative. Some clients come to us with detailed sketches or inspiration images, while others have just a general idea of what they need. Our designers work closely with you to understand your vision, functional requirements, and aesthetic preferences.

We provide detailed sketches and 3D renderings for your approval before production begins, and welcome your feedback at every stage of the process. Your satisfaction is our priority, and we ensure the final piece perfectly matches your vision.

Can I make changes once production has started?

We understand that visualizing the final piece can be challenging, and sometimes you might want to make adjustments once you see the work in progress. Minor changes can often be accommodated during the early stages of production.

However, significant changes after production has begun may affect the timeline and cost of your project. That's why we invest so much time in the design and approval phase—to ensure you're completely happy with the design before we start crafting. We encourage you to communicate any concerns or desired changes as early as possible.

Can I visit your workshop during production?

Absolutely! We welcome clients to visit our Limerick studio to see their furniture being crafted. It's a wonderful opportunity to witness traditional woodworking techniques in action and see the care that goes into each piece.

We typically schedule client visits at key milestones in the production process, such as when the joinery is complete or before the finishing process begins. Please contact us in advance to arrange a visit, as our workshop is an active production environment with safety considerations.

Materials

What types of wood do you work with?

We primarily work with sustainable Irish and European hardwoods known for their beauty, durability, and character. Our most commonly used timbers include:

  • European Walnut
  • Irish Oak
  • European Ash
  • Elm
  • Beech
  • Maple
  • Chestnut
  • Reclaimed heritage timbers

We can also source specific exotic or reclaimed timbers upon request, though availability may vary.

Are your materials sustainable?

Yes, sustainability is a core value at glyxshralau. We source our timber from certified sustainable suppliers across Ireland and the European Union who follow responsible forestry practices. Many of our woods come from managed regrowth forests or salvaged sources.

We also offer reclaimed timber options, giving new life to wood with history and character. Our finishes are non-toxic and environmentally friendly, and we minimize waste in our production process by repurposing offcuts and sawdust.

By creating furniture designed to last generations, we're committed to a sustainable approach that reduces the need for disposable furniture.

Do you work with materials other than wood?

While we specialize in wooden furniture, we often incorporate other materials to enhance both the aesthetics and functionality of our pieces. Common complementary materials include:

  • Metal (brass, copper, steel) for accents, inlays, or bases
  • Glass for tabletops or cabinet doors
  • Natural stone for tabletops or inlays
  • Leather for upholstery or details
  • Resin for river tables or decorative elements

We're always open to exploring creative material combinations that align with your vision while maintaining the integrity of fine woodworking.

What finishes do you use?

We use premium, non-toxic finishes that enhance and protect the natural beauty of the wood while ensuring durability for everyday use. Our standard finishing options include:

  • Natural oil finishes (linseed, tung) that penetrate the wood, highlighting grain patterns and creating a natural, matte appearance
  • Hard wax oils that offer excellent protection while maintaining a natural feel
  • Water-based polyurethane for areas requiring higher durability (like tabletops or high-traffic pieces)
  • Traditional French polishing for a classic, high-gloss finish

We'll discuss the best finishing options for your specific piece based on its intended use, location, and your aesthetic preferences.

Pricing

How much does custom furniture cost?

Custom furniture is an investment in quality, craftsmanship, and design that's specifically tailored to your needs. Our pricing reflects the premium materials, skilled craftsmanship, and personalized service that goes into each piece.

While each project is unique, here are some general starting price ranges:

  • Dining tables: from €2,070
  • Bookcases and shelving: from €1,675
  • Bed frames: from €2,515
  • Coffee tables: from €1,135
  • Sideboards: from €2,370

The final cost depends on size, wood species, design complexity, hardware, and additional features. We provide detailed quotes after our initial consultation.

Do you require a deposit?

Yes, we require a 50% deposit to secure your place in our production schedule and cover initial material costs. This deposit is due upon approval of the final design and before we begin sourcing materials.

The remaining balance is due prior to delivery or installation. For larger commercial projects, we may arrange a different payment schedule with milestone payments.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept the following payment methods:

  • Bank transfer (preferred)
  • Credit card (Visa, Mastercard)
  • PayPal

For commercial projects or larger commissions, we can discuss tailored payment arrangements.

Why is custom furniture worth the investment?

Custom furniture offers value beyond what's available in mass-produced pieces:

  • Perfect fit: Custom furniture is designed to your exact specifications, optimizing your space
  • Superior quality: We use premium materials and traditional joinery techniques that far outlast mass-produced furniture
  • Unique design: Your piece will be one-of-a-kind, reflecting your personal style and needs
  • Sustainability: Well-crafted furniture lasts generations, reducing waste and environmental impact
  • Long-term value: Quality custom furniture often appreciates over time, becoming family heirlooms

When amortized over decades of use, custom furniture often proves more economical than replacing lower-quality pieces multiple times.

Delivery & Installation

Where do you deliver?

We deliver throughout Ireland, with complimentary white-glove delivery service within the Limerick metropolitan area. For deliveries to other counties, we work with specialized furniture delivery partners who ensure your piece arrives safely.

UK and EU shipping can be arranged for select projects, though additional costs, customs duties, and logistical considerations will apply.

What are your delivery costs?

Delivery costs vary based on location, piece size, and installation requirements:

  • Limerick city and suburbs: Complimentary delivery and basic installation included
  • Munster counties: From €90-€180 depending on distance and accessibility
  • Rest of Ireland: From €180-€420 depending on location and logistics
  • Complex installation requirements may incur additional fees

We'll provide exact delivery costs as part of your project quote.

Do you offer installation?

Yes, we offer professional installation for all our furniture pieces. Our delivery team doesn't simply drop off your furniture—they carefully bring it into your home, place it exactly where you want it, and ensure everything is perfectly level and secure.

For complex pieces like built-in shelving, wall-mounted items, or pieces requiring assembly, our craftsmen handle the installation to ensure everything is perfect. We'll also remove all packaging materials and leave your space clean.

During installation, we're happy to provide care instructions and answer any questions you might have about your new furniture.

Can I pick up my furniture instead of having it delivered?

Yes, you're welcome to pick up your completed furniture from our Limerick studio. We offer a 5% discount on the furniture price for client pickup.

If you choose this option, please ensure you have an appropriate vehicle with adequate protection (blankets, straps) to transport your piece safely. We'll help load the furniture and provide guidance on secure transport, but responsibility for safe transit rests with the client once the piece leaves our workshop.

Please note that some larger or more complex pieces may not be suitable for self-pickup and may require professional delivery.

Care & Maintenance

How should I care for my wooden furniture?

Proper care will ensure your custom wooden furniture remains beautiful for generations:

  • Cleaning: Dust regularly with a soft, dry cloth. For deeper cleaning, use a slightly damp cloth and immediately dry the surface.
  • Avoid harsh chemicals: Never use household cleaners, silicone-based polishes, or abrasive products.
  • Protect from sunlight: Direct sunlight can fade and damage wood over time. Use curtains or blinds to limit exposure.
  • Maintain humidity: Extreme changes in humidity can cause wood to expand and contract. Aim for a consistent environment.
  • Use coasters and mats: Protect surfaces from moisture, heat, and scratches with appropriate table protections.
  • Lift, don't drag: Always lift furniture when moving it to avoid damage to both the piece and your floors.

Each piece comes with specific care instructions tailored to its wood type and finish.

Can my furniture be refinished if damaged?

Yes, one of the great advantages of solid wood furniture is its ability to be refinished if damaged. Minor scratches, water rings, or wear can often be addressed with simple touch-up techniques we can teach you.

For more significant damage or if you'd like to refresh the piece after many years of use, we offer professional refinishing services. This typically involves sanding the surface back to raw wood and reapplying the appropriate finish.

We can even update the look of your piece with a different finish if your style preferences change over time. Our furniture is built to last generations, and refinishing is part of that long-term lifecycle.

Do you offer maintenance services?

Yes, we offer several maintenance services to keep your furniture in optimal condition:

  • Annual maintenance: A thorough cleaning and conditioning to nourish the wood and refresh the finish
  • Touch-up service: Addressing minor scratches, dents, or wear
  • Complete refinishing: For older pieces or those with significant damage
  • Modifications: Adapting pieces to new uses or spaces
  • Restoration: Bringing antique or damaged pieces back to their former glory

We recommend scheduling maintenance every 1-2 years depending on the piece's use and environment. Contact us to arrange a maintenance appointment or consultation.

Do you provide care kits?

Yes, each piece of furniture comes with a complimentary care kit specific to the wood type and finish used. These kits typically include:

  • Natural wood soap for cleaning
  • Conditioning oil or wax for periodic maintenance
  • Soft microfiber cloths
  • Felt pads for furniture feet
  • Detailed care instructions
  • Touch-up materials for minor repairs

Replacement care products are available for purchase through our website or workshop. We're also happy to provide guidance on proper maintenance techniques—just contact us with any care questions.

Warranty & Returns

What does your warranty cover?

All our furniture comes with a lifetime structural warranty. This covers:

  • Structural integrity of all joinery and construction
  • Hardware functionality (hinges, drawer slides, etc.)
  • Manufacturing defects in materials or workmanship

Our finishes are warranted for 5 years against abnormal deterioration, cracking, or peeling (excluding normal wear and tear).

The warranty applies to the original purchaser and is non-transferable. It assumes proper care and normal residential use of the furniture.

What isn't covered by the warranty?

Our warranty does not cover:

  • Normal wear and tear from regular use
  • Damage resulting from improper use, accidents, or negligence
  • Changes in wood color due to exposure to sunlight (wood naturally darkens or lightens over time)
  • Natural characteristics of wood such as grain variations, mineral streaks, or minor checking
  • Damage from extreme environmental conditions (excessive humidity, dryness, or temperature)
  • Damage from improper cleaning or maintenance
  • Commercial use unless specifically agreed upon at time of purchase

Natural wood will continue to move and respond to its environment—this is part of the beauty of real wood furniture and not considered a defect.

What is your return policy for custom furniture?

Since each piece is custom-made to your specifications, we do not offer returns or exchanges in the traditional sense. However, we are deeply committed to your satisfaction and will address any issues:

  • If your piece arrives with manufacturing defects or damage, we'll repair or replace it at no cost.
  • If there's a significant discrepancy between the approved design and the delivered piece, we'll work with you to make it right.
  • If you have concerns about the quality or finish, we'll inspect the piece and address legitimate issues.

Our thorough design approval process is designed to prevent disappointment by ensuring you know exactly what to expect before we begin crafting your piece.

How do I report a warranty issue?

If you experience any issues that may be covered under warranty:

  1. Contact us by phone or email with a detailed description of the issue.
  2. Include clear photos showing the problem from multiple angles.
  3. Our team will assess the situation and may schedule an in-person inspection for complex issues.
  4. If the issue is covered under warranty, we'll arrange for repair or replacement.
  5. Repairs may be performed in your home or at our workshop, depending on the nature of the issue.

We aim to resolve warranty claims promptly and with minimal inconvenience to you. Most issues can be addressed within 2-3 weeks of the initial report.

Have More Questions?

If you didn't find the answer you're looking for, or if you have specific questions about a potential project, we're happy to help. Reach out to our team for personalized assistance.

Contact Us

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