Replies

1. 
   HowardAcheson | Jul 23, 2008 07:25pm | #1

   Are these indoor or outdoor tables?

   Are they solid wood or veneer?

   What kind of condition are they in now?

   Teak is fairly easy to resurrect. First, use a paint stripper to remove any finish. Then go to a marine store and get a container of teak cleaner/brigthener. It should say that it contains oxalic acid. Follow the directions. Depending on how rough and eroded the surface, you may have to use a bristled scrub brush to remove all the gray. Be careful about too much agressive brushing as the early wood grain is quite soft and you will make the wood very rough.

   Now, if it's solid wood, you can sand it starting with 120 or 150 working up to 180. If it's veneer you must be very light with the sanding to prevent sand through into the substrate. At this point the wood should be ready to be clear coated.

   Now you need to decide how the items will be used. If they will go outdoors and be subjected to sunlight and exterior evironmental conditions, I recommend using an oil/varnish "teak oil". It's easy to apply and needs to be periodically renewed. If you will use these inside, you can still use the teak oil or you can apply a film finish. For teak, I like to use a thinned wiping varnish. Mix your favorite varnish 50/50 with mineral spirits and wipe on 4 - 6 coats. Let it dry fully and it should last you another 10 or more years.

   Howie.........
1. 
   paramed | Jul 30, 2008 04:56pm | #2

   Tnanks very much for the response. These tables are indoor stacking tables, so I will be sanding them as you recommended and then using a wiping varnish.