Expert: Greg Scholl - 4/22/2009

Question
QUESTION: I have natural cherry kitchen cabinets approximately 15 years old that have what appear to be water marks from around the dishwasher and sink.  The finish is wearing off.  I took a drawer front to a refinisher and he said he would have to sand them down and refinish them.  However, I am afraid they will not match the other cabinets when sanded.  I remember when they were first installed, they were very light in color and they darkened over time to a color that is warm and rich, which I love.  Can I remove just the polyurethane and reapply something?  They are not shiny, more of a matte finish.


ANSWER: Hi Janet, I'd get a second opinion. "Sanding down" isn't usually associated with restoring or repairing a finish like this, in most cases. Obviously, from here, I can't tell you what the finish is, or see how bad it is, but it can likely be restored. It isn't polyurethane though, most likely a lacquer or possibly an oil finish. You could contact the manufacturer for help determining that, that should be pasted somewhere on the cabinets, (usually in a drawer). Cherry is one of the few woods that darkens with age and exposure to UV light, instead of bleaching out, but some chemicals used in finishing or stripping can change the color, so you're right to be concerned. It's not a job for you though, I don't think. It has to be done by someone who's familiar with the techniques and materials used in this type of finishing. Hope that helps a little- regards- Greg

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you for your reply.  Just a follow up question, please.  My cabinets were made by a cabinet-maker for me.
(not able to get in touch with)  I'm pretty sure he sprayed the finish on.  Could that be lacquer?  I've used a product called "Panel Magic" over the years which diminishes the water marks, however, they lighten back up over time.  Should I just shop around for a professional who understands this problem?  Like I mentioned, I did actually take a drawer front to this professional refinisher who suggested sanding off the finish and reapplying one.  I live in the Boston area, if you know of anyone.  I appreciate your time.  Thanks again, Janet

Answer
I would suggest you find someone else to go to, restoring a finish like this should never be started with "sanding the finish off". The proper job probably wouldn't involve sandpaper at all, most likely. If they are a sprayed lacquer type finish, I wouldn't recommend you mess with them, as this is tricky work. Let a professional restore the finish....but it's important to find the right one. One of our other Experts is from Boston and I'm sure he could make a recommendation, or possibly help you himself. I could also recommend calling a few reputable Antique stores for a recommendation, they'll know who's good- Hope that helps- Greg