You will need to do a bit of research in order to find the best antique pine wardrobe, and you will want to educate yourself on the signs of rot, mold, warping, or other types of damage commonly associated with pine. While pine is an inexpensive and beautiful choice of material for a wardrobe, it is also highly susceptible to damage from moisture as well as direct sunlight, so you should expect your antique pine wardrobe to show some signs of damage. If it does not show any signs of damage, expect to pay a higher price, and be sure it is an authentic antique.
Be sure to consider how much space you have in your home for the antique pine wardrobe before purchasing it. Take accurate measurements in the space in which you intend to place the unit, and be sure there is adequate space for opening the doors to the wardrobe. Try to choose a location within the home that is not susceptible to elevated levels of moisture, and try to place the wardrobe in such a way that it will not be in direct sunlight for many hours of the day. This will help preserve and protect the wood for years to come.
An antique pine wardrobe is likely to be a unique piece of furniture, since pine tends to be full of knots and will therefore give a distinct aesthetic that is impossible to recreate. Your wardrobe will be one of a kind, but a beautiful wardrobe is not always the best one. Look for water damage such as rot, molding, warping, splitting, and cracking both inside and outside of the antique pine wardrobe. Be sure to check underneath the wardrobe as well if possible, and pay special attention to any part of the wardrobe that touches the ground. These are the most common spots for damage.
It is a good idea to do some research to find out the common costs of an antique pine wardrobe. This will ensure you pay a fair price for the unit. Remember to include any refurbishing costs that may be associated with the unit you choose, as some antique wardrobes can be purchased at a lower initial cost because of damage, but that cost can rise as repair needs are discovered. Deal with a reputable antiques dealer if possible, and be wary of purchasing units online. It is often impossible to see the unit in person before purchasing online, which will make an accurate inspection difficult to do.