Expert: Eileen Cronk - 5/6/2007

Question
We recently removed all the trim in our family room and I sanded it down, applied a stain/varnish and then nailed it back up.  I though another coat of varnish would give it a little extra shine and protection, so I applied a coat of varnish after it was back in place.  Some places look great and other places the finish turned to white streaks.  What did I do wrong and how can I fix this?
Thank you.

Answer
Hi Rita
Nice to hear from you.
I think what you have here is called "Blush".
The exact cause could be moisture trapped between coats or I often see this if the wood is not completely clean of wax or grease.
First try rubbing the areas with a rag dipped in tung oil (hardware store).
If that fails the boards will need to be stripped and redone.
Good Luck
Kindest Regards
Eileen