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Cabinets, Furniture, Woodworks/Space between spindles

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Expert: - 11/13/2011


Question
We recently had our hardwoods refinished from a lighter stain to dark walnut. The spindles of the balcony are attached to a red oak flooring. The space between the spindles has a slightly different color than on the same piece of wood than along the long axis of the railing. Is this normal? Is it due to the hand sanding required between the spindles? I can send a picture if that would help. Thanks.

Answer
Please send a picture.   I do know that a surface needs to be equally sanded so it takes the stain the same.  If an area was sanded with 120 grit paper and the surrounding area with 80 grit, there would be a stain penetration problem, leaving the 120 grit surface lighter and the 80 grit surface darker.   Usually I can tell from a photo.

You can email that to joseph@westfiremfg.com.

Thank and sorry it took so long to answer your question as I've been away.  Back now :-)

Joseph

Cabinets, Furniture, Woodworks

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Joseph G. Swallow

Expertise

I can answer all staircase balustrade questions where handrails, newels posts, balusters (wood and metal), and stair treads are concerned. I cannot help with cabinetry and floor (outside of stair-related treads and risers), as well as stain and finish issues unless staircase related.

Experience

30 years in the stair industry. Founder of Hardwood Creations in Southern California and CEO of Westfire Manufacturing, Inc. I was a stair builder for 10 years, both in custom and production housing. Have estimated over 750,000 single family homes and provided materials to lumber yards and builders for 12 years. Was an expert witness in several staircase related law suits in Southern California. Stair codes, installation help, stair handrail and balustrade installation are what I know best.

Organizations
NAHB of Portland, OR. Was a member of ICBO for 9 years.

Education/Credentials
Cal State Fullerton, Cypress College

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