Expert: maura macaluso - 3/29/2009

Question
Applied stain red mahoging to a old bannister after I prepared it with Formsby refinshing going over it three times. Applied stain 24 hours ago and its still tacky. How can I get rid of the tacky so it dries. Thanks

Answer
Hi John,  

Refinishing can sometimes be tricky.  A couple of things could have gone wrong.  Either the mixtures of the products were not right, oil and water based or laquer used together, temperature not right for applying, not enough drying time given between coats, old products or improperly stored products(by the retailer or you). You can first allow an additional 24-48 hrs drying time and see if that helps. Besides the tackiness, if the finish is smoooth(not bubbled) you can try an easy fix of putting a coat of minwax oil-based poly over it all and allow 24 hours drying time.  Tips:  Make sure you thoroughly mix it, make sure the temp is above 65, use a clean brush.

If there is any bubbling or roughness to the finish, sorry to say you will have to resand and start again.

Thanks for the question and good luck with your project.