Get matched with top furniture refinishers in Williamstown, VT

Pros cover many fixes, from upholstery renewals to joint reinforcement.

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.

Stay away from using window cleaners and other harsh cleaning solutions on antique wood—or any wood in your home for that matter. The pH of the cleaners can break down the finish and permanently damage and stain the wood below. Even when it comes to more durable areas, such as when cleaning your baseboards, only use cleaning solutions that are safe for porous materials. 

Sometimes you will need a stronger cleaning solution to thoroughly clean furniture before painting. It’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’t risk damaging the finish.