How to Refinish Polyurethane
- 1). Sand the wood item to remove the polyurethane coating. Use a palm sander loaded with 220-grit sandpaper to carefully lift the polyurethane without damaging the stained wood below. Wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from dust particles.
- 2). Wipe the surface clean with a damp rag. Remove any dust created by the sanding process, and allow the surface to dry completely before continuing. Test surface for dryness by wiping the wood with a dry paper towel. If any water is transferred from the wood to the paper towel, the surface is still moist. The paper towel will remain dry if the surface is dry.
- 3). Stir the can of polyurethane and brush a thin layer over the entire surface of the wood object. Wear long sleeve cotton shirts and long paints as well as rubber gloves when working with polyurethane to avoid getting any on your skin. Use a foam paint brush for this process, and be sure to allow the polyurtehane to dry for four to six hours before moving to the next step.
- 4). Apply a second coating of polyurethane with a foam paint brush. Work polyurethane into and curves or crevices along the surface. Allow the polyurethane to dry for twenty four hours before using refinished object.
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