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Three Fireplace Restorations From "Restoration Realities" episode DRTR-209

(Continued from page 5)

Fireplace Project #3: Sand, Re-stain and Lacquer

The third fireplace could simply use some refinishing on its beautiful, but timeworn, stained wood surround. The prescription for this ailing antique: sanding, new stain and a coat of lacquer. We used an oil-based stain, and color-matched it to the original stain's tone and color as closely as possible.

Tools and materials:

oil-based wood stain
multi-pack of sandpaper for varnish or lacquer finishes (120 to 400 grit)
medium grade steel wool
very-fine grade steel wool
1 qt. high-gloss lacquer or polyurethane
sanding coat sealer (if using lacquer) or polyseal (if using polyurethanes)
bristle brushes
1 gal. lacquer thinner (or mineral spirits, if using urethanes)
metal paint buckets
tack cloths
cotton rags
drop cloths
latex gloves
breathing respirator

Safety Alert: Always work in a well ventilated area and wear protective gloves when working with stains, strippers and other hazardous chemicals. A dust mask should be worn for sanding. Read and follow the manufacturer's safety precautions that come with the stain and other chemicals you select. When using some chemicals, a breathing respirator is required.

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	Figure N

Restoration Reality Tip: Whenever refinishing an antique piece, it's a good idea to begin by performing a test on an inconspicuous spot. Sand off the spot and apply some of your stain to ensure that you'll be getting the results you desire. Also, be sure to read the manufacturer's instructions that come with the stain you select.

Steps:

• Sand off the old lacquer or varnish layer with 120 grit sandpaper, making certain to sand with the grain of the wood.

• If necessary, the old lacquer may be softened using lacquer thinner or a light duty paint stripper.

• Once the old coat is removed, begin application of the oil based stain.

• Once the stain has been applied, allow to dry anywhere from three to 24 hours depending on the thickness of the application to achieve the right color match.

• Begin by applying a coat of polyurethane sanding sealer or, if using lacquer, dilute the first coat of lacquer by 10 to 15 percent for the first coat.

• Allow 1/2 hour dry time with lacquer, up to an hour with polyurethane.

• After drying, sand lightly with 200 grit sandpaper, and apply the first finish coat.

• After that has dried, sand with 400 grit sandpaper and apply a second finish coat. A third coat may be required. If you apply more than two coats, sand the dried finish with 400 grit paper between applications.

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RESOURCES :

Renovating Old Houses: Bringing New Life to Vintage Homes
Author: George Nash
Publisher: Taunton Press
ISBN: 1561585351
Order this title from Amazon.com.

Renovating and Restyling Older Homes: The Professional's Guide to Maximum Value Remodeling
Author: Lawrence Dworin
Publisher: Craftsman Book Company
ISBN: 1572180293
Order this title from Amazon.com.

Selecting and Renovating an Old House: A Complete Guide
Author: United States Department of Agriculture
July 2000
Publisher: Dover Publications
ISBN: 0486409562
Order this title from Amazon.com.