Expert: Eileen Cronk - 7/23/2007

Question
Hi!  I have learned so much from your site!  I am currently refinishing several pieces of old oak planking as a tabletop for my farmhouse table.  I have sanded and used tung oil (three coats).  Now that I am ready to put the pieces together, I have realized that one of the boards is slightly warped.  AAAAAAGGHH!  Is there anything that I can do to straighten the board?  I really love the look that I am achieving, but my patience is beginning to wear out!  Thanks in advance!

Answer
Hi Lori
Nice to hear from you.
Wish I new how you are putting the boards together.
But try this first.
Find a very sunny spot outside.
Sprinkle the ground with water.
A watering can works well for this and make the wet area a bit larger than your board.
Place the board with the warp up. Pretend the board is a cup you are turning upside down...get the concept...warp up.
Now since you have already put a finish on the board, I am not sure this will work but its worth a try.
You must leave the board in the hot sun until the board straightens.
I have often left the wood too long and it warps the other way, but no problem, just turn it over the other way and it will come back.
Seems strange, but it always works for me.
If it fails for you, you may have to strip the finish off the board.
And can you let me know the method you are using to apply the boards and if you plan on gluing them together.
Regards
Eileen