Furniture refinishers near you

Furniture refinishing restores the surface of a piece while keeping its original structure. The exact steps vary, but the typical process includes:

1. Inspection and prep: A refinishing pro cleans the piece and evaluates it for damage. They'll remove hardware and address any repairs (loose joints, dents, scratches).

2. Stripping or sanding: The old finish is removed using chemical stripper or sanding to create a smooth, bare-wood surface.

3. Repairs and smoothing: The pro will fill any cracks or holes, sand surfaces smooth, and carefully hand-prep any details.

4. Staining or painting: If desired, a new stain or paint color is applied to refresh or change the look.

5. Sealing and finishing: A protective topcoat (such as polyurethane, lacquer, or wax) is applied for durability and sheen.

6. Curing and reassembly: The finish cures fully, then your pro reinstalls hardware, and the piece is ready for use.

The result is a refreshed, durable piece that looks updated while preserving its original character.

Before hiring a pro to refinish your furniture, be sure to ask these questions:

• Can I see a portfolio of your previous refinishing projects?

• What is your process for stripping, sanding, and finishing a piece like mine?

• What types of products (stains, paints, sealants) do you use?

• How do you determine your pricing — is it a flat fee or an hourly rate?

• What is the estimated timeline for completing the project?

• Do you handle pickup and delivery, and is that included in the quote?

• Are you insured, and do you offer a guarantee on your workmanship?

It depends on the piece, the damage, and what “new” you’re comparing it to. Refinishing is often cheaper for solid-wood furniture (like dressers, tables, and chairs) because you’re paying for labor and materials, not a whole new item. It’s especially cost-effective if the frame is sturdy and the issue is mostly cosmetic (scratches, faded finish, water rings).

Buying new can be cheaper if the furniture is low-cost, made from particleboard/veneer, or needs structural repairs (broken joints, warped panels). In those cases, repair time and extra work can push refinishing costs above a budget replacement.

Rule of thumb: Refinish if it’s solid wood, well-built, or sentimental; buy new if it’s inexpensive, structurally damaged, or you want a different size/style.

Generally, it's best to refinish indoor furniture when you see signs of wear, peeling, or scratching — the frequency depends on the type of furniture, its finish, and how much use it gets. Outdoor furniture, however, typically needs to be refinished every one to three years to protect it from sun and moisture damage. A fresh finish restores the piece’s original beauty and can significantly extend its lifespan.

Typically, it will take a professional a few days to a couple of weeks to refinish furniture, but the total time depends on a few factors. For example:

• The size and complexity of the piece: Large, intricate items will take more time to strip, sand, and refinish.

• The furniture’s current condition: Pieces with significant damage, such as deep scratches or water stains, require more time for repairs and preparation.

• The type of finish you choose: Some finishes require multiple coats and extended drying times between applications to achieve the desired look.

• Structural repairs: If your furniture needs repairs like fixing wobbly legs or re-gluing joints, this will add time to the overall project.

• Drying and curing time: The new finish needs to properly dry and cure, which can take several days to ensure a hard, durable surface.

Remember: The timeline for your project will vary depending on many factors. Always ask your pro to provide an estimate.

There are several factors that might impact the cost of this project, including:

• The size and complexity of the piece: A large dining table with six chairs will naturally cost more to refinish than a single, small end table. Intricate details like carvings or spindles also require more time and labor.

• Current condition: Furniture with deep gouges, water damage, or peeling veneer needs more extensive prep work and repairs before the refinishing process can start, which can increase the price.

• Materials and desired finish: The type of wood can play a role, as can the finish you choose. A simple stain and clear coat is typically less expensive than a specialized finish like a high-gloss lacquer or hand-rubbed oil.

• The extent of stripping needed: Removing the old finish is a key step. A piece with multiple layers of old paint will take much longer to strip than one with a simple, worn-out varnish.

• Any necessary repairs or customizations: The cost can also go up if the project involves structural repairs, such as fixing wobbly legs, or customizations like replacing hardware or changing the color.

Your refinished furniture typically needs regular dusting with a soft cloth and occasional cleaning with a mild soap and water. To maintain the new finish, you should protect it from direct sunlight, moisture, and extreme temperatures. Using coasters and avoiding harsh chemical cleaners will also help preserve its appearance and prevent damage.

Before your pro arrives to refinish your furniture, take these steps:

1. Clear the furniture. Make sure to empty all drawers, shelves, and surfaces of the piece you’re having refinished. This allows your pro to get right to work without having to handle your personal items.

2. Create a clear workspace. Move any nearby furniture, rugs, or decor to give your pro plenty of room to work around the piece. A clear area helps prevent accidents so the job can go more smoothly.

3. Protect the surrounding area. Lay down drop cloths or plastic sheeting on the floor and cover any items you can’t move. This will protect your home from dust, paint, and chemical strippers.

4. Ensure proper ventilation. Open windows and doors in the work area to create good airflow. Refinishing can produce strong fumes, so ventilation is important for everyone’s safety.

5. Keep kids and pets away. For their safety, make sure children and pets are secured in another part of the house. This prevents them from getting in the way or being exposed to materials.