Expert: Eileen Cronk - 11/9/2007

Question
QUESTION: I have a great old wood door that was stored in a shed for about 75 years-- it has some detail on it- it is quite soiled Heavy dust over lots of years-- should I use Murphy oil soap and water- and what kind of applicator Ineed some sortr of brush to get into the detailing- please e mail me at the above address- I am new to this site and dont know how it works-
Thank you Barbara in Kansas

ANSWER: Hi Barbara
Nice to hear from you.
You went through the question process just fine Barb.
I know it can be a bit intimidating.
And the email address you are asked to give never sees the public eye unless you actually post it included in your letter. I do not even see it.
So I answer this way. And always glad to help if I can.
So first give the door a good vacuuming.
I would not wash with the Murphys unless you are leaving the door as is.
If you plan on any paint or finish, then no Murphys.
For dirt like this I would scrub with warm soapy water and a bit of degreaser. And use a regular floor scrubbing brush in the large crevices, an old toothbrush in the small ones.
Good Luck and great question.
Write anytime.
Eileen


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I may leave it just cleaned-- does murphys leave a residue?
if I dont use it- what is a good degreaser?  the top half of it has a glassinset- it is super but has a crack in the glass at the top-- half circle in the 90 degree corner- you you have any ideas for a glue or any type or fix? The glass is etched so I want to keep it
Thanks again
B

Answer
Hi Again Barbara
The doors sounds lovely.
I was just thinking that the Murphys could leave a residue that could interfere with a finish if you were applying something, but it could also be easily removed with a degreaser.
I am in Canada Barb and products are different here, but one of those orange citrus degreasers is fine.
To me they get rid of dirt better than any other cleaner.
Too bad a glass pane has broken.
Now I have never even thought about trying to repair window glass, but I do know they make a glue that will stick a handle back on a china cup and perhaps it would work here.
You would need to remove the etched glass in order to try this, and I think the break will always show, but at least it would be sealed closed.
Or a glass store sells this type of glass too.
Certainly I would inquire about a replacement.
Good Luck
Write any time
Eileen