More Questions to ask

Wood Finishes?

1. Clear coated with varnish (works quite well and is easily amended/repaired if scratched.) Stained first, then clear coated: Also works quite well, and gives a little variation on a theme. Plus, the stain levels out the variations in wood grain/coloration.

2. Polyurethane: Similar in many ways to varnish, except... Doesn't mix with varnish (is using varnish, repair with varnish. If using poly-, repair with poly-.) Varnish mellows (yellows - ambers) with age. Poly- stays the same. Some people like that change in varnish, others do not. Poly and Varnish can both be repaired using the same materials.

3. Painted: Oil, oil, oil. Need I say more. Use only oil based primer and paints on wood. You'll be much more satisfied and the finish will last longer and stand up to use/abuse.

4. Oil (such as tung oil, linseed oil, etc.) Does anyone use these any more? Gives a fine, luxurious finish that needs regular attention.

5. What about refinishing? For example: Windows that were originally stained/varnished and have weathered to the point of having no varnish remaining. 1. Sand nicely (a fine - 150 grit) sandpaper and a sanding sponge work great. Also, use a 5-in-1 tool (or an 8-in-1, 11-in-1, we've gotten as far as 13-in-1) for scraping and cleaning crevices. Then finish, such as re-staining, re-varnishing. Or, prime and then paint (oil based) with a light sanding in between coats.