Although modern stoves are more efficient and easier to use, many people desire the style and uniqueness of antique stoves. Locating and restoring an antique stove requires patience and a large time commitment. Nonetheless, it can be an exciting and fun project for the determined and adventurous person.
Antique Stove Costs
Among other considerations, cost can be a factor in purchasing an antique or vintage stove. By their very nature, antique stoves tend to be far more rare---and that increases their price. According to Antiquestoves.com, wood stoves that have not been restored range from $100 to $400, whereas vintage wood stoves that have not been used and are in "mint" condition can reach upwards of a thousand dollars. You may also want to consider purchasing vintage gas stoves, which tend to be several hundreds of dollars more than wood stoves in each category of restored and not restored stoves.
Education
When purchasing a vintage stove that needs restoration, educate yourself about the various models of vintage gas and wood stoves. Conduct research at a local library that will give you insight into high quality vintage stoves. Additionally, Antiquestoves.com provides a wealth of knowledge about vintage stoves. Once you have adequate knowledge about stoves, begin the hunt for a vintage stove that needs restoration.
Inspection
Prior to purchasing your vintage stove, inspect it for structural defects and cracks. Most repairs can be corrected, but you may want to avoid a stove that is in complete shambles if it is the first time you are restoring a vintage stove. Once you have purchased a vintage wood stove, place the stove outside in your backyard or an open space away from any flammable material. Add wood to the stove and light the wood to test the stove for leaks. While burning the wood, pay careful attention to determine if there is smoke leaking out of the sides or front of the stove, rather than through the smoke vent. Repair these leaks prior to using the wood stove indoors.
Since wood stoves tend to produce additional heat, you will need to add additional fire retardant material to your kitchen to prevent burning. Contact your local fire marshall about adhering to the local fire code. You should conduct a similar test with a vintage gas stove by attaching the appropriate gas hook-ups the stove. Make sure to have a fire extinguisher ready if there are any flare-ups or leaks in the gas line. You may also want to consult with the local fire marshall about this procedure as well.
Tracking Down Parts
In addition to testing the vintage stove for leaks and heat output, you may need to replace various parts of the stove. This process can be time consuming, similar to a scavenger hunt. There are a variety of online sources for ordering new parts for vintage stoves. You should also check local antique shops and the classified advertisements. The availability of the stove's parts depends on the popularity and age of the model.
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