Expert: Eileen Cronk - 12/14/2006

Question
Eileen,

I just remembered that that forecast for the next several days is 60 degrees or so.  Would that work if it is sunny.  Also, does the grass have to be damp? and how long do I leave the table top in this position?  Does the grass area have to be flat?

Thanks,

Donna
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The text above is a follow-up to ...

-----Question-----
I have a child's maple table with a painted decoration on the table top.  The table top is warped from being in a damp basement.  How do I go about fixing the warp?  Also, can you give me some advice about restoring the painted decoration and wood finish?
-----Answer-----
Hi Donna
Nice to hear from you.
Take the top off the table and place it on the grass with the warped side up. Simplier to say just pretend the warped top is a cup that you turn upside down..get the idea?
Now it must have good hot sun so if you live in an area thats cold now you will have to wait till summer, but this works. You top will straighten out.
Not much you can do as far as restoring the decoration, and if the finish is ruined (which I suspect) it will have to be stripped and replaced.
Hope this helps
Regards
Eileen

Answer
Hi again Donna
Sorry but 60 will not do it.
At least 75 or the hotter the better.
I usually but my warped pieces out in a flat area in the morning when the dew is on so yes you want the grass wet but a sprinkle with a watering can will do.
How long you leave the board varies, and I have left the boards too long and they curled the other way but thats OK..just turn again LOL
So it will take at least 6 hours. More if its cooler, less if its hotter.
Good Luck
Eileen