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. » Read more: Restoring Wood Patio Furniture Through Refinishing