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Guide to Stripping Furniture Finish

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Embarking on a furniture refinishing project can be rewarding, but it requires careful attention to detail, especially during the crucial step of stripping the old coatings from the wooden surfaces.  In this guide, we’ll use our professional experience as the best Jacksonville furniture restoration shop to walk you through the essential steps to ensure you achieve the best results possible.

  1. Choose the Right Stripping Agent – Selecting the appropriate stripping agent is paramount to the success of your project. While many products claim to be “safe,” it’s essential to scrutinize their chemical makeup and instructions.  Opt for high-quality stripping agents and carefully read the labels to understand their effectiveness and safety for both you and your furniture.  Harsh chemicals can weaken joints and damage the wood, so prioritize gentler options that are still effective.
  2. Prioritize Safety – Safety should always be a top priority when working with stripping agents and other chemicals. Equip yourself with the necessary protective gear, including goggles, long sleeves, gloves designed for chemical resistance, and a respirator to prevent inhalation of fumes. Minimize skin exposure and ensure adequate ventilation in your workspace to safeguard your health throughout the refinishing process.  Keep children, pets, and other members of your household away from your work area.  When in doubt, call on a great professional furniture restoration service and leave the messy work to the seasoned professionals!
  3. Allocate Sufficient Time – Stripping old coatings from antique furniture is a time-intensive task that requires patience and attention to detail. Allocate plenty of time for each step of the process, including preparation, application, chemical dwell time, and finally, removal.  Factor in additional time for any unforeseen challenges or the need to repeat certain steps to achieve the desired results.  Rushing through the process can compromise the quality of your refinishing efforts.
  4. Understand the Need for Elbow Grease – Effective furniture stripping requires good old-fashioned elbow grease. Follow the instructions provided with your chosen stripping agent, ensuring thorough application and proper dwell time for the chemicals to do their work. Use the appropriate tools and techniques for removal, such as scrapers or steel wool, to gently lift away old coatings without damaging the underlying wood.  Once you know what the job will entail, you may choose to just call on the best professional furniture refinishing or reupholstering shop in your area and let the experts take care of everything.

While DIY furniture refinishing can be fulfilling, entrusting your beloved antiques to professional restoration experts offers unparalleled expertise and peace of mind.  Jax Furniture Refinishing & Upholstering is the best furniture refinishing company Jacksonville FL homeowners trust with their favorite furniture.  We provide unmatched craftsmanship and attention to detail, ensuring your furniture receives the care it deserves. From Jacksonville to Riverside, Ortega, and Mandarin, your neighbors trust Jax Furniture for high quality antique restoration services backed by passion and professionalism.