Solutions To Most Common Problems
Q. How can I remove water rings?
A. Squeeze toothpaste on a damp cotton cloth and buff lightly into the ring for luster. For stubborn rings, mix toothpaste with baking soda and apply to the area.
Q. How can I repair cigarette burns?
A. Dip a cotton swab into a bottle of nail polish remover and lightly rub across the burn. It will dissolve. Then scrape any black residue with a plastic credit card. If a hollow is left, mix equal parts of clear nail polish and remover and fill in the hollow.
Q. How do I identify the finish on my furniture in order to remove it properly?
A. Touch a spot of the finish with a cotton ball dampened with nail polish remover. If the cotton sticks or softens the finish, it's varnish, lacquer or shellac. If there's no effect, it's polyurethane.
Q. How can I remove the finish from carvings and other intricate areas?
A. Rub furniture refinisher into the area with a paint brush, with bristles trimmed to a stubby length. Also, use a genuine brass brush. This will stand up to chemicals and won't scratch the wood.
Q. How do I choose the best paint remover?
A. The heavier the can, the more effective the product. Shake the can to be sure it's not thin and runny.
Q. Once the old finish is removed how do I protect the wood?
A. Apply a protective coating of tung oil varnish or polyurethane. Look for finishes that can be hand rubbed for a finish that will last and look naturally beautiful.
Copyright Leslie Linsley, author
Reprinted with permission, HouseNet, Inc.