Expert: Eileen Cronk - 8/13/2009

Question
Eileen,

I have an antique table that was unstained but treated with what I believe was a resin to protect the original wood.  The wood is within the 75-100 year old range.  

I recently came home from a long vacation and discovered damage to the table.  A bag of potatoes had been left on the table.  In my absence, the potatoes rotted and produced a liquid that was on the table.  When I picked up the potatoes, I noticed a dark black spot in the wood that I could not scrub off. The table now has a strong odor that reminds me of yeast.

I am wondering how if this is rot or mold, what I need to to do to prevent further damage, and how I can restore the table.

Thanks for your help!
Bob

Answer
Hi Bob
Nice to hear from you.
Once the wood dried after the potatoes were removed, there will be no further rotting or mold.
Hopefully by this time that has happened.
There will not be further damage.
The black spot is caused by moisture. Potatoe juice or water, its still moisture damage and the black spot will need to be bleached out.
Here is the bleaching info.
You will bleach the table top after all the existing finish is removed with paint stripper.

http://www.woodcentral.com/bparticles/woodbleach.shtml

After bleaching, the top will need to be sanded.
Then a coat of stain to match the color to the legs, and finally a clear coat finish of your choice.
Get back to me if you need further help.
Great Question
Eileen