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What kind of finish is this?

688 views 5 replies 5 participants last post by  Daysailor 
#1 · (Edited by Moderator)
I have a beautiful commercially made walnut desk that I bought used. However the clear finish is rather soft and appears to be water soluble. For instance, when wet, it gets rather sticky, and a wet cloth will stick to the surface after it drys. It almost seems like I can wipe the finish of with a wet rag! Anyone have an idea what kind of finish this might be? i think I would like to remove it and refinish with something more durable.
 
#3 ·
I don't see why anyone here would intentionally use or admit they are using something that bad.
It could be someone cleaned your piece before you bought with a harsh cleaner that softened the finish.
Ammonia based cleaners will do that to some poly urethane finishes.
Ever go out to a new cafe and put your elbows down on a sticky table?
I can't think of any reason why you shouldn't refinish it.
Good Luck
 
#4 ·
Was it a used piece of furniture? What you are describing sounds a lot like what happens when too much wax based furniture polish is used (Pledge, etc.).
 
#5 ·
Off the top of my head, I would assume that a spray furniture polish or dusting spray has been used on it. These are terrible and should not be used. The buildup of these can cause all sorts of problem down the road. I think some of them may even have silicone in them.

Relatively close up pictures and some more info might help. Does it look like it has film finish on the surface or more like natural wood like a tung oil finish? Does it feel sort of tacky even after it is dry? Is it just to top surface or do all surfaces do this. On a less prominent area, I would first try dampening a cloth with some mineral spirits and see what it removes and if that improves it.
 
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