So, the short answer to this question is NO, refinishing a piece of furniture or doing furniture repair does NOT decrease the piece's value… but there are a few circumstances that need to be considered. ... Instead of furniture refinishing a period piece, Finish Pros recommends preserving it to prevent further damage.

Why do antiques go down in value?

Dealers, auctioneers and designers point to a number of reasons for the declining interest in antiques and rapid rise of contemporary design. More homes have open-concept, casual living spaces rather than formal dining rooms and studies, which reduces the need for stately mahogany dining tables, chairs and cabinets.

Are antiques losing value?

Plummeting Prices

By some estimates, antique furniture has decreased by 45 percent in total value over the past 15 years. Once-hot commodities struggle to find buyers and, when they do manage to sell, can see up to a 70 percent drop in price.