Replies

1. 
   RickL | Mar 07, 2004 11:10pm | #1

   Not really a finisher but I'd see what solvent dissolved the present finish and see if what I was going to put over it was compatible by contacting the manufacturer. You might try http://www.homesteadfinishing.com as that is their area of expertise. You might search the forum. I would thing that this has been asked before.

2. 
   whoover | Mar 07, 2004 11:47pm | #2

   I would be very concerned about removing the oils and waxes accumulated over the years.  I don't believe a light sanding will assure complete removal of them.  I would consider a through cleaning with a solvent or with TSP.

   Bill

1. 
   Gretchen | Mar 08, 2004 04:00pm | #3

   And cleaning may be all it needs. I was chairman of a cleaning project at our church last year. We cleaned the tops of all the surfaces with mineral spirits. It made a huge difference to remove the accumulated oils from folks' hands. Wiped very hard and then buffed with a clean cloth.Gretchen

1. 
   joinerswork | Mar 08, 2004 04:35pm | #4

   Howard,

   Just be aware that the oil from all those hands may be all that's on the surface of the hard used areas of the pews (the top edges of the backs, for instance).   Years of people grasping and sliding their hands over the same area cam wear right thru a finish.  You may be having to build up a matching color and shine, rather than just "freshening up" a dull finish.  Just a word of caution about what you may be getting into...

   Regards,

   Ray

1. 
   Gretchen | Mar 09, 2004 02:22pm | #5

   I guess that is what I was trying to say--from my experience.Gretchen