It can be a shame to watch a beautiful piece of wood furniture fall victim to age. Factors like moisture, humidity, sunlight, and general wear & tear can lead to wood degradation. Fortunately if action is taken before the piece falls apart, you can make it almost like new. This process is called refinishing. It requires a few tools which you might already have around the house. Before you start working on that precious family heirloom, consider some of these important tips.
If the piece has any coatings like paint or varnish, it must be removed. Removing this layer exposed the original wood which will be refinished to return it back to its former glory. There are two ways to remove these substances: paint/varnish remover or sanding. The easiest way is to use a chemical remover. The chemical is applied to the surface and then wiped off sometime after, taking the paint with it. You can also use an electric or hand sander to remove the substances, but having experience in this field is best.
If you used a sander in the previous step, then you may have the next step covered. Feel the surface of the wood for any bumps, nicks, or anything out of the ordinary. These irregularities must be sanded off to produce a smooth finish. To achieve the smoothest result, use a thick grot sandpaper first and switch progressively to smaller grits as you continue working.
Now that you’ve made a mess of the area, it’s time to clean the piece. Sawdust and other debris must be removed. A wet cloth can effectively remove pieces of matter. Use a vacuum to get in the little cracks. If the piece got wet during this step, let it dry before continuing.
Next, have your can of paint/varnish/stain ready to go. A brush is all that’s needed to apply the coating. Spread a thin layer across every visible part of the piece and let dry. This could take a couple days, just to be safe. After it’s dry, flip the piece over and do the other side. Be sure to have a soft cloth underneath the piece to prevent scratches. Be sure to apply an even coat or it will look darker in some areas. A second coat can be applied for a solid coat.
Working around the home can require a lot of time, patience and knowledge. To learn more about working outdoors, visit my guide about gardening.
