They Don’t Make It the Way They Used To Modern furniture pieces are not of the same quality as the old furniture pieces. The quality has deteriorated over the past several decades, and the highest quality wood is not used anymore except for very specific (and expensive) applications. The inexpensive plywood used today does not last for many years, thus warranting the need to refinish old furniture, which helps furniture lasts longer. Consider restoring antique, high-quality pieces for resale as a cottage business. Environment Benefits of Furniture Restoration Due to the energy intensity of furniture-making, it produces much more carbon dioxide emissions to create new furniture pieces than to restore the old furniture. Compounded by issues of deforestation and land degradation, refinishing old furniture keeps trees standing.