Expert: Eileen Cronk - 8/15/2008

Question
We recently had a leak. We put down pots and pans to gather the water. Once it was repaired, we removed the pans and discovered two big rings on our expensive sideboard. Is there anything I can do to repair the damage. I did not realize how badly oak is affected. Both rings appear as if the color has gone from the wood. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

Answer
Hi Paul
Nice to hear from you.
Paul it sounds to me like the moisture has not penetrated the finish but just clouded it. I have never seen the actual wood go lighter as you describe but I haven't seen everything LOL, and if it is actually the wood then for sure the water has reached it.
Now what I need from you is the age of this piece, and confirmation that the wood has actually gone white.
Also I am sending a link with the home fixes you can try in hopes its just a damaged finish.

http://home.howstuffworks.com/how-to-remove-stains-and-discoloration-from-wooden...

Get back to me
Regards
Eileen