Expert: Eileen Cronk - 8/13/2007

Question
Hi, I have a client with oak trimmed tables, after years of people getting in and out of the booths the edges are all worn. I tried to restain the edges but it doesn't seem to soak in. I looked at most of the posts here and I'm guessing I would have to strip down the edges and then stain. Also what would be a good strong durable finish when I'm done. I can't remove the tables so this process has to be done over a few nights with the tables ready to go for the next day. Any advise would be great. Thanks Mike

Answer
Hi Mike
Nice to hear from you.
Mike I wonder if perhaps the stain is not soaking into the worn areas because of grime and grease that has gotten into the wood.
Here are two things to try before you start stripping.
1..Use a medium steel wool pad dipped in mineral spirits and scrub the heck out of the wood.  Be real aggressive.
When dry, try the stain.
2..Or try sanding the edges well then staining.
Now comes the tricky part...If the tables need to be ready the next morning, there is no way an oil based finish will be ready for use the next day.
I would have suggested spar varnish if you could take your time.
Even a fast drying oil based poly will not be fully cured and ready for use the next day.
So it sounds like you will need to apply water based stain and water based poly or a lacquer which dries instantly but is vile stuff to use.
If using lacquer an oil based stain is needed and  the stain takes 12 hours to be fully dry before top coating.
Lacquer cannot be applied in high humidity and cold temperatures. The rule is 65 (above 65 degrees in temperature and below 65 % humidity)...pretty easy to remember.
Hope this helps you out Mike.
Get back to me if this is not 100% clear (I ramble sometimes)
Regards
Eileen