Expert: Sijka - 2/2/2009

Question
My new great room has floor to ceiling (20 ft in some areas!) pine paneling that hasn't been cleaned or treated in nearly twenty years. After reading through this site, I now know to use Murphy's Oil soap or an Ivory dish soap solution to clean.  What I would also like to know is, (a) can/should I sand rough areas like where a chair back has repeatedly scratched or where a previous owners pets scratched/chewed around doors and (b),after cleaning and sanding (if that's okay) what is the best sealer?  Oil or some kind of polyurethane? All of the other wood trim and cabinets have a honey pine stain with a satin finish. Thanks for your help.  I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Answer
Hi Roxanne,
  If you "sand" the paneling you will be taking the finish off of it.  If it is really needed though, I would do it then use polyurethane so it will blend in.
  I use "Rejuvenate" on my paneling after cleaning.  It puts back the luster of the pine.

Refer to this site:

http://www.amazon.com/Rejuvenate-Floor-Restorer-Protectant-RJ16F/dp/B000LX892C/r...

Even though it says "Floor" you can use it on anything!!

It is available at most home stores--best to buy biggest (16 oz) size.  I apply it with a microfiber mitt or mop-helps keep the streaking down.

Sijka