Refinishing

Refinishing is the process of removing an existing surface finish and applying a new one to restore or alter the appearance of a surface, most commonly wood furniture, cabinetry, floors, and decorative veneers. It can refresh color, enhance grain, or improve durability.

The typical workflow includes assessing the piece, cleaning, repairing defects, removing the old finish, smoothing the surface, applying stain or tint if desired, and topcoating with a protective finish such as polyurethane, varnish, lacquer, shellac, or wax. Stripping may use chemical agents, heat, or mechanical sanding; some projects rely primarily on sanding, especially on floors.

Tools and safety: PPE, good ventilation, dust collection, and careful disposal of chemicals. Sanding uses progressively finer grits; strippers require neutralizers and cleanup; avoid overheating wood to prevent grain raise. On floors, refinishing often uses large drum or orbital sanders and dust containment.

Considerations: Refinishing can restore appearance and extend life but may not fix deeper damage; veneer or laminate layers can complicate refinishing; matching the final color with existing pieces can be challenging; antique finishes may have value that should be preserved. Costs and time vary.

Common issues: blotching on softwoods, uneven staining, trapped dust, uneven sheen, or peeling top coats due to improper surface prep or incompatible products. Proper technique and product selection are essential for durability and a uniform result.