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Restoring antique furniture is both an art form an a science. Much like any other skilled trade, there are certain techniques to embrace and others which should be avoided altogether.

Let’s take a look at some common precautions when undertaking such a task as well as why it might be better to delegate more challenging work to the hands of a professional.

Personal Safety Issues

Antique restorations often involve in-depth and potentially hazardous tasks such as mechanical sanding and furniture stripping. While quite effective if performed correctly, these very same requirements can sometimes lead to the release of irritating substances into the air such as fine wood particles and even lead paint. This is why wearing the appropriate personal protective equipment is always important.

Removing Excessive Amounts of the Surface

Stripping paint and varnish from wood will often require the use of chemicals in addition to common methods such as hand sanding. However, users need to be careful when performing such tasks.

If too much of the surface is accidentally removed, it could detract from the overall appearance of the furniture. This is even more important when referring to delicate portions such as hand-carved wooden inlays.

Improperly Cleaning the Surface

The surface of the furniture will need to be thoroughly cleaned after any sanding or stripping has been completed. The presence of dirt, moisture or oils will prevent any future finishes from adhering properly.

It is also wise to follow the instructions in regards to the specific type of furniture, as certain woods and surfaces may require special attention.

Selecting the Wrong Materials During Repairs

Many individuals who restore furniture are looking to return the piece to its original condition and appearance. This is why purists would argue that historically accurate materials must always be used.

For example, placing a cheap piece of modern velvet over a section of upholstery that dates from the 19th century could negatively impact the overall appearance of the furniture. This is why it is a good idea to perform a bit of research to appreciate the options at your disposal.

While restoring furniture is a very rewarding task, it can also be quite challenging for those who are unprepared. This is why more complex projects are often expedited with the help of the technicians at Premium Door Stripping. We will be happy to take on even the most daunting demands.

Stripped screw holes can be quite common in doors and door frames. This is usually the result of an excess amount of movement (such as when opening and closing a door on a frequent basis).

Eventually, the wood fibres will either wear away or become damaged to the point where they are no longer able to serve as anchors for the screw. Common symptoms include loose mounting brackets and a door that fails to close flush with the frame. The good news is that this situation can be fixed relatively quickly. Let’s take a closer look at one do-it-yourself method.

Filling the Screw Hole

This is the most aesthetically pleasing method, as a new hole will not need to be drilled. First, remove the screw and any shavings that might be present within the initial bore hole.

Take a piece of scrap wood (preferably the same type that is already present). Shave a piece that is roughly equivalent to the depth and diameter of the hole. Make certain that it fits snugly before removing the shunt.

Then, coat the strip of wood with high-quality wood glue. Insert the shaft into the bore hole and allow it to dry. As the wood and glue cure, the shaft will expand slightly. This ensures a tight fit. Once the glue has completely dried (generally within 24 hours), sand off any bits that remain raised above the surface.

Inserting a New Screw

A small pilot hole will then need to be drilled into the centre of the wood-filled shaft. This pilot hole will be used to guide the new screw. Assuming that the hardware is properly in place, drill the screw into the pilot hole. Check that the screw is firmly tightened before permanently securing it in place.

When Should a Professional be Called?

In the event that numerous stripped holes need to be addressed, it could be a wise idea to call a professional. This firm will be able to provide expert advice and if necessary, an entire section of the door can be replaced with a wood that will match perfectly with the original.

If you would like additional advice on similar issues or should you require a service to remove layers of old paint from furniture or trim, be sure to contact a representative from Premium Door Stripping. We are always pleased to help.

Removing excess paint from the surface of furniture is one of the best ways to restore these pieces to their natural condition. There are a number of paints which Premium Door Stripping can address and in order to appreciate the choices at your disposal, it is wise to look at each variant in greater detail.

Acrylic

Acrylic (or water-based) paint is one of the most common types of paint seen on furniture. This configuration is known for its fast drying time as well as the nearly limitless number of available colours.

Enamel

Enamel paints are oil-based in nature and they are particularly known for their ability to protect furniture surfaces thanks to a durable nature. Enamels can also be used to cover up unsightly features such as stains and knot holes. As these are oil-based formulations, the stripping process is different when compared to dealing with acrylic paints.

Matte

This type of paint is actually more associated with surface sheen than its chemical composition. Matte paint exhibits a flat appearance as opposed to a glossy shine.

This could present an issue, as flat paints tend to absorb stains and they normally cannot be washed (the paint itself might be removed during the process). So, it is no surprise that matte surfaces will often need to be stripped.

Gloss

Semi-gloss and high-gloss finishes are often used when individuals wish to provide their furniture with a more visible aesthetic appeal. Still, glossy paints can become dull or discoloured over time.

This is particularly the case if the furniture happens to be located outdoors. Our stripping specialists are just as capable of removing gloss paints from the surfaces of your furniture.

Emulsion

This type of paint is associated with a specific colour pigment bound with a water-soluble resin. It is used on both indoor and outdoor surfaces. More than one coat is normally applied in order to avoid the presence of any “bleeds” caused by underlying colours or stains. We are capable of removing emulsion-based paints from furniture as well.

Regardless of the type of paint that you need to remove, there is no doubt that our team is here to help. Stripping paint from furniture will result in a natural appearance that might not otherwise be possible. Please do not hesitate to speak with one of our representatives to learn more.

There are many items which may need to be restored in order to display their natural beauty. Some common examples are windows, doors and traditional furniture.

This will often involve removing any excess layers of paint which may be present. However, the concept of “one size fits all” is certainly not appropriate here. Different materials will require entirely different techniques.

Did you know that wood and metal need to be addressed in entirely unique manners if you hope to achieve the desired results? Let us take a look at some of the main differences when stripping wood and metal.

The Tools Used

The underlying material will often determine the type of tool that is used. For example, many stripping projects intended to address wood will involve tools such as hand-operated scrapers and belt sanders. These are both used to remove excess layers of paint without damaging the underlying surfaces.

However, damage is not always a major concern when dealing with metallic objects (such as exterior doors or upright radiators within a home). In these cases, rotary sanding machines and similar electrical devices can be employed to effectively remove any paint the may be present.

Having said this, it is important to note that the risk of inhaling any lead paint is generally increased when dealing with powered sanding machines.

Chemical Products?

One of the challenges associated with wood stripping is that it can be difficult to remove any paint while ensuring that the underlying surface remains intact.

This is why wood stripping will often involve the use of chemical substances. These are applied on the surface and allowed to interact with the paint; loosening it so that the removal process is much easier.

When using stripping agents are addressing metal surfaces, care must be taken in order to ensure that the right formulation is obtained. Some caustic substances will react with the underlying metal; potentially resulting in the release of irritating gases. This is not normally the case when referring to wooden objects.

Each approach will require targeted techniques if you hope to enjoy beautiful results. This is often why the experts at Premium Door Stripping should be contacted.

We are capable of providing bespoke services in order to ensure that even the most challenging tasks can be completed in a timely fashion. Give us a call if you would like to learn more about our services.

Stripping paint off of wood can represent an excellent way to restore its initial beauty and to enhance the natural grain. This will often be used to address common portions of a home such as windows and doors.

While modern paint stripping techniques will provide quality results within a relatively short period of time, they can also be associated with the use of harsh and caustic chemicals.

This is why it is important to understand how any wood should be properly cleaned after the stripping process is completed. What do the experts have to say?

The Process of Neutralisation

The substances contained within paint strippers can be irritating to the eyes, nose, throat, and skin. This is why they need to be effectively neutralised. The good news is that the majority of stripping products will contain detailed recommendations and advice in regards to how any excess can be removed.

These instructions will tend to differ from provider to provider. Always read them carefully, as you might otherwise unknowingly damage the wood that has just been restored to its former glory.

Do-it-Yourself Methods

One of the most common ways to clean down wood after it has been stripped is to employ a combination of vinegar and water. Mix these two liquids together in equal proportions.

Immerse a soft rag within this solution and gently wipe any wood that has been subject to the stripping agent. The acidic properties of vinegar will counteract the caustic elements found within most paint removers.

In the event that the stripper contains solvents, it is better to use a rag soaked in mineral spirits to remove any remaining residue.

Subsequent Cleanup

Once you are satisfied that the original stripping residue has been removed, use another rag with clean water to wipe the wood down once again. Allow the wood to naturally dry and smell the surface.

If you still detect a slight odour of stripper, repeat the processes mentioned above. It is also wise to contact a professional in the event that you fear the wood may become damaged.

It is quite easy to clean wood that has been stripped of its paint, so feel free to follow the advice mentioned in this article.

If you need to address more challenging products or should you have additional questions, always feel free to contact Premium Door Stripping. One of our expert representatives will be more than happy to help.

The organic beauty of wooden furniture cannot be denied. Some pieces have existed for hundreds of years and if cared for properly, they will never lose their aesthetic lustre.

Still, this very same furniture can suffer from wear and tear; leading to damage and similar issues. There are also times when pristine wood has been masked by layers of paint that were applied in the past.

This is when the talents of a professional wooden furniture restoration specialist can be leveraged. What are some of the tasks which this expert performs on a daily basis?

Preparatory Steps

Preparation is always important in order to ensure future success. Some common steps involve sanding down any rough edges, removing any hardware that needs to be replaced and thoroughly cleaning the piece of furniture in question. This is arguably the most critical stage, as all subsequent results will depend upon such efforts.

Exposing the Surface of the Wood

There are many times when a restoration professional will be required to expose the original underlying wood. This can be quite challenging, as years of paint, lacquer or stains may be present.

This is why these specialists are also experts at stripping techniques. They will use a variety of tools to uncover the original surface without causing any damage to the natural wood.

Fashioning/Replicating Replacement Parts

It could be necessary to obtain and/or clean furniture accessories. These can include bolts, corner protectors and any associated upholstery. There are instances when such efforts can be completed by utilising in-house techniques although it is not uncommon to source these parts from a third party (this is often the case when dealing with speciality antique items).

Evaluating and Reevaluating

The ultimate goal is to restore a piece of furniture to its original appearance. This is why restoration technicians are considered to be true artisans within their craft.

A delicate eye for detail is required and there is simply no substitute for patience. After all, even the smallest of deviations will have a massive impact upon the final result.

It can be very difficult to properly restore wooden furniture. This is why the team at Premium door Stripping will often be called when more challenging tasks need to be tackled.

If you are looking for nothing less than the best, please give us a call to learn more about our services.

There are many times when you might wish to restore a door to its former glory. This is often the case when referring to antiques or if you happen to own a door that has been crafted from fine woods such as oak or mahogany.

Paint stripping is a common technique and if performed properly, you will be amazed at the subsequent results. Still, the efficacy of such a task requires that you use the correct paint removal tools.

Let us take a look at some of the accessories that are normally involved as well as their unique purposes.

Heating Elements

Many individuals will be surprised to learn that heat can represent a very effective way to remove paint from a door. The associated infrared rays will help to loosen the chemical bonds within the paint; enabling it to be removed with relative ease.

This is often the preferred option if there are numerous layers present. Many hand-held systems are specifically designed for such a purpose.

Mechanical Scrapers

Technicians will likewise employ metallic scrapers. These come in all shapes and sizes, so they are able to address issues such as crevasses and detailed finish work.

One common instrument is known as a “five-in-one”, as it offers a number of different surfaces and edges within a single tool. Mechanical scrapers will frequently be used for rough removals before more detailed procedures are undertaken.

Electrical Sanders

Hand-held sanders can also come in handy, as they are able to smooth down any rough surfaces while removing excess paint that might be too resistant to normal scraping techniques.

Circular and belt-driven sanders are two common configurations and the sandpaper is available in numerous grits (depending upon the task at hand).

The Proper Respiration Equipment

This lesser-known concern should never be glossed over. It is always important to wear the appropriate breathing apparatus. Older doors and surfaces may contain lead paint.

This particulate matter can be dangerous if inhaled. Common 3M masks and more robust respirators can provide you with an ample amount of protection.

Removing paint from doors can sometimes be quite challenging. If you are concerned about damaging the underlying surface or if you hope to employ professionals to complete this task within a timely fashion, be sure to contact Premium Door Stripping. A customer service representative will always be standing by.