How To Remove Polyurethane From Wood Without Removing The Stain

Polyurethane finishes are applied to wood to protect the surface from water or chemical spills and other types of damage. Typically they add a satin or gloss appearance to the wood. However, you’ll probably want to preserve the wood stain underneath when you eventually remove the polyurethane. So, how do you remove polyurethane without removing the stain?

First, you need to ensure you have the correct tools and the area prepped correctly. Then, apply the citrus stripper gel, wait for 24 hours and do a scrape test. After, you can remove the product and prepare it for repainting. There are other methods in this article we’ll discuss as well.

Removing polyurethane without stripping the stain is important. Therefore, below, we’ve included three different methods you can use to do that. The method you choose depends on your preference and the materials you already have on hand.

You’ll need to remove a specialist stripping product, spreading it onto the wood with a paintbrush. Once you’ve applied it, leave it on, and carry out small ‘test scrapes’ every 30 minutes or so, for up to 24 hours, according to the number of layers you’ll need to remove

Once you’ve scraped away all the layers, remove any residue with a paint stripper wash. The final step is to prepare the newly-stripped surface of the wood using mineral spirit.

For the best results, you’ll need to be patient and ensure it is completely clean and dried out before applying fresh stain or paint.

You’ll need to take a few sensible precautions as you’ll be using strong chemicals. First, your work area will need adequate ventilation. If working inside, open all windows and doors to assist airflow.

You’ll also need protective gloves and goggles. Don’t attempt this method without them. If you have any issues with breathing difficulties or perhaps an asthma problem, then a mask is required as a minimum. Use heavy plastic cloths to protect your work area and any nearby items.

These two ingredients can be mixed, in equal parts, in a plastic bucket or even an empty paint can. The lacquer thinner serves to dissolve the paint and varnish, while the denatured alcohol acts as a cleaning agent.

Mix thoroughly using a wooden stick. The advantage of this mixture of denatured alcohol and lacquer thinner is while it will remove the finish from the surface of the wood, it’s not strong enough to damage the wood itself. Therefore, it won’t strip away the stain.

Apply the solution to the wood in the same way as previous methods. Once you’ve coated the wood with a thick, even layer, leave it for a few minutes to give it time to soak into the wood. One advantage of this method is that it will not result in the discoloration of the wood’s surface.

Next, scrub the wood with a wire pad. Don’t be concerned about applying some pressure as this won’t damage the wood. When you’ve finished washing, either let the area dry naturally or use a hairdryer. The most important thing is that you allow the wood to dry completely.

To prepare the surface correctly, you’ll need various sandpapers: 60, 80, and 120 grade. Begin with the heaviest, the 60-grade. Take care to sand in the direction of the wood’s natural grain to avoid damage.

Working against the grain will create small scratches and indentations across the surface, which won’t be attractive when you re-paint.

This is an easy mistake to make, especially when you’re in a hurry to make progress, but it won’t create a smooth surface on which to paint.

After sanding for some time, the polyurethane will start to disappear, revealing the natural color of the wood. Next, substitute the 80-grit sandpaper. This won’t require as much time as with the 60-grit.’

Yes, there is no reason why you can’t remove polyurethane by sanding. Sandpaper alone is unlikely to be enough to strip off polyurethane, it can be used to remove any residual polyurethane from the wood.

120-grit sandpaper or even 150-grit sandpaper can work well to strip off any excess layers of polyurethane. It will also help to create a far smoother surface than previously.

The best approach is always to begin with the heaviest grit sandpaper. While using lighter grades will eventually give you the smooth results you want, it will take far longer.

It is entirely possible to remove polyurethane from wood without stripping the stain, and there are at least three effective methods you can use to achieve a great result. The key to success is to use the correct tools and products and take all safety precautions before starting work.

Finally, attention to detail and patience in ensuring the wood is completely dry before re-staining will ensure that your DIY project is successful and your wood is restored to its natural beauty. With patience and care, you can easily do it on your own without calling an expert. It will save money and give you a learning experience as well.