Expert: Eileen Cronk - 8/29/2007

Question
We just bought a lovely new dining room set, but the finish on the table doesn't seem durable enough. It scratches easily and just touching it leaves a cloudy spot on the table.  I would like to add another coat of finish to make it more family friendly (we have 4 small kids).  I called the manufacturer, he said it was finished with a clear laquer.  Can I just purchase another clear laquer finish and add coats?  Any tips this kind of project? I would really prefer not to have to strip anything, just add.  Thank you!

Answer
Hi Shawna
Nice to hear from you.
You should not have to strip to add a couple more coats of clear laquer, but this will need to be done in a shop.
It surprises me that the existing finish is that delicate.
Shawna take the table to a local refinisher.
They have all the equipment and safety gear to do this job in no time. Should not be costly, but shop around.
Hope this helps
Regards
Eileen