Are you someone who loves finding and fixing up old furniture? Whether you’re looking to start a side hustle or just want to furnish your home on a budget, this article is for you. In this article, we will show you how to restore water damaged furniture, specifically a water damaged buffet. We will walk you through the step-by-step process of repairing the damage and giving new life to a piece of furniture that was headed for the landfill. So, let’s dive right in!
Assessing the Damage
The first step in restoring water damaged furniture is assessing the extent of the damage. In the case of this water damaged buffet, the top was severely damaged due to exposure to rain. The veneer had been compromised, and there were worries about swelling in the particle board. However, upon closer inspection, it was determined that pulling up all of the veneer was not necessary, as there was no swelling. This saved a lot of work and time.
Sanding and Preparing the Surface
To begin the restoration process, start by sanding down the most severely water damaged veneer. This will help remove any failing finish and smooth out any raised texture caused by the moisture. It is important to be thorough during this step to ensure a clean and smooth surface for the next steps.
Patching and Filling
After sanding, any areas where the veneer has peeled up need to be patched and filled. Bonded fill can be used for this purpose. It is applied to the areas where the veneer has lifted, and any excess can be scraped away. After the fill has dried, it may be necessary to do a second pass in areas with rough coverage.
Sanding and Cleaning
Once the patching and filling is complete, it’s time to give the rest of the piece a good scuff sanding. This will help remove any remaining finish and ensure a clean surface for painting. After sanding, it is important to thoroughly clean the piece, removing any dust or debris. This can be done using a TSP alternative, wiping away the solution with warm water and then drying with a cloth.
Choosing New Hardware and Painting
With the surface prepared, it’s time to choose new hardware and apply paint. The old hardware can be removed and replaced with modern hardware that adds a new level of interest to the piece. Before painting, it is recommended to prime the surface to ensure a smooth and even finish. Priming is especially important when dealing with water damage and open wood pores. For this project, a paint color called “Press Fern” was chosen, which will be complemented by the new hardware.
Applying Paint and Top Coat
The paint can be applied using a HVLP gravity-fed spray gun, which may seem intimidating at first but is actually quite simple once you get the hang of it. Multiple thin coats of paint are recommended for optimal coverage. Between each coat, it is important to sand with a 220-grit sanding pad to smooth out the texture. After the final coat of paint, a top coat of polyurethane with a satin finish can be applied to protect the surface and add durability.
Final Touches and Completion
To add the finishing touches, any hardware that doesn’t match the new color scheme can be spray painted to coordinate with the new hardware. It is important to let the paint cure overnight before handling to avoid any smudging or damage. Finally, step back and admire your restored piece of furniture. What was once a water damaged and lifeless buffet now has new life and personality, ready to be sold or enjoyed in your own home.
In conclusion, restoring water damaged furniture is a rewarding project that allows you to breathe new life into old and forgotten pieces. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can successfully repair water damage and give your furniture a new lease on life. Remember to take your time, be thorough in your preparations, and have fun with the process. Happy restoring!
