Can I refinish my own furniture?

• <div><p>It is possible to refinish your own furniture, but it’s usually a good idea to leave the work to the professionals. Furniture refinishing often requires the use of paint stripper or solvents to remove existing finish, which can be dangerous to inhale. Additionally, it’s easy to make mistakes during the process that could permanently damage your piece, limiting its lifespan instead of extending it. Hiring a furniture refinishing professional is especially worthwhile for antique furniture, which often requires more delicate refinishing work.</p></div>

Does antique furniture lose its value if you refinish it?

• <div><p>Yes, refinishing can decrease or even diminish the value of antique furniture, as most collectors look for original finishes to maintain the piece’s historical integrity. Learning <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-clean-antique-wood.htm">how to clean antique wood</a> and carefully restore the finish without stripping it is the best way to maintain the piece’s original value. Either way, it’s best to take it to a professional furniture refinishing and restoration expert rather than attempting a DIY restoration.</p></div>

Get matched with top furniture refinishers in West Alexander, PA

Q: Can I refinish my own furniture?

• <div><p>It is possible to refinish your own furniture, but it&rsquo;s usually a good idea to leave the work to the professionals. Furniture refinishing often requires the use of paint stripper or solvents to remove existing finish, which can be dangerous to inhale. Additionally, it&rsquo;s easy to make mistakes during the process that could permanently damage your piece, limiting its lifespan instead of extending it. Hiring a furniture refinishing professional is especially worthwhile for antique furniture, which often requires more delicate refinishing work.</p></div>

Q: Is it OK to wrap furniture in plastic for storage?

• <div><p>Yes, in most cases it&rsquo;s a good idea to wrap furniture in plastic to protect it from dirt, dust, and damage during storage. However, natural and porous materials such as wood or leather should have breathable fabric covers to prevent moisture damage from condensation. Either way, it&rsquo;s always important to ensure proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup, especially in humid climates. </p></div>

Q: How long does it take to refinish furniture?

• <div><p>For small, simple pieces that aren&rsquo;t antiques, a professional furniture refinisher can usually refinish a piece in <b>two to three hours</b>, while larger pieces&mdash;like bed frames and full dining sets&mdash;could take <b>several days</b>. Your refinishing professional should be able to give you an estimated timeline for the work before getting started so that you can plan to be without your furniture during the process. Antique furniture might require additional time and take a week or more to refinish, as they require special care to avoid damage.</p></div>

Q: What if the dirt doesn’t come off the furniture with the vinegar, water, and dish soap mixture?

• <div><p>Sometimes you will need a stronger cleaning solution to thoroughly clean furniture before painting. It&rsquo;s best to start with a mild solution to avoid damaging the surface, especially if it is an antique piece. If you need to use a stronger mixture, try a commercial cleaner or mineral spirits. Before applying any solution, do a test patch on an inconspicuous area so you don&rsquo;t risk damaging the finish.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Furniture Refinishing pros in West Alexander, PA

*The Angi rating for Furniture Refinishing companies in West Alexander, PA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Furniture Refinishing needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Furniture Refinishing companies in West Alexander, PA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Furniture Refinishing needs.

Last update on October 30, 2025

Reviewed in June 2024
Bob refinished a bed for me that had been stored in the attic and had sustained some water damage. He also helped with some loose chair back. All his work was nicely done and in a very timely fashion. He picks up and delivers. I highly recommend him.
BOB LEWICKE FURNITURE REFINISHING
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Reviewed in August 2023
Moved furniture, pulled up carpet and pads, and re-stretched my carpet. Good value for good work.
Hamilton Flooring
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Reviewed in February 2022
hired them however they are painters and do not refinish furniture
Deck Works, LLC
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Reviewed in April 2015
Felt everything went excellent. They moved all my furniture and cleaned. Everything put back where it went. When they left the room was in perfect order. Placed plastic coasters underneath all the furniture to protect the carpet from the wood. Next time I have to clean my carpet I would...
Airport Chem-Dry
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Reviewed in March 2014
I gave them the gift card and that was it. Lowe's is closer to my house and I would rather go closer. The customer service is fine. All I did was pick up furniture polish or something and went to the counter and checked out with my gift card. I had a very positive experience.
Lowe's
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Reviewed in November 2013
One installer arrived in the morning, worked his tail off, sometimes in the rain, temperature was in the 50's, most of the work was done inside the house. I removed curtains and blinds, moved furniture from around the windows and door. The price was more than expected, but worth it.
Window World of Pittsburgh
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Reviewed in February 2012
Alexanders was very prompt and professional. The work was completed on time and for a very reasonable price. We are very happy with our refinished floors.
ALEXANDER'S HARDWOOD FLOORS
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Reviewed in June 2010
It mostly went OK. The interior work looks excellent, and the exterior work is OK given the recent weather and the condition of the deck prior to painting. My biggest complaint is the care that was given to our property and items during the painting. We just discovered 3 days later that our...
University Painters
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Reviewed in March 2006
I HAVE AN OLDER CURIO CABINET, AND IT IS HARD TO FIND SOMEONE THAT WILL REPAIR THAT KIND OF STUFF. THEY CAME TO MY HOME AND SANDED IT DOWN AND REFINISHED IT. THEY DID AN EXCELLENT JOB AND IT LOOKS BRAND NEW.
Art Van Furniture & Clearance Center
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Reviewed in March 2006
There were only two workers. They did a great job! They moved furniture, covered carpeting, and took care of a few "extras" (changed light bulbs, cleaned ceiling fan) at no charge. They showed up a little late, but were amazingly fast.
BALDWIN PAINTING
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