Banisters - Advice Needed!

JMurph

Hi

In my new home, there is an old set of banisters that are varnished fairly dark, and despite having washed and cleaned them, sort of give off a bit of stickiness to the touch...

So, I'm wondering whether I should remove the varnish (with varnish remover or sand them down?) and try to lighten up the look of them with a clear varnish, or whether I should have them replaced with something new and modern.

I'd be able to sand and revarnish myself, but think I'd need to get an expert in to replace.

Grateful for any advice or suggestions, experts!

JM

Newbie2saving

Hi, I asked this question a few months ago in this thread https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/2902430= it is complete now, although I ended up using a decorator at quite a cost, but it looks brilliant. He had to sand it down and paint over it with a zinsser paint then apply an undercoat and a couple of top coats. My hall, stairs and landing was so dull and dreary, now it's all painted in white satin (less harsh than gloss) and looks amazing. I'm delighted I made the decision to change it. Good luck!

keystone

Sand them down - its not difficult the varnish will come off easily and then revarnish.

Cheers

ormus

try cleaning with some sugar soap, first.

STOCKWIRE

ormus wrote: »

try cleaning with some sugar soap, first.

Good idea as sometimes you will find they were painted dark brown prior to varnishing. if very old the paint could contain lead so not wise to sand particularly if there are children in the house!.

JMurph

Thanks all, I used sugar soap recently for something, can't quite remember what, but never thought of giving a run over the wood with it, so will give that a go. I'll go for the sanding option then, too. Although the style of the banisters is quite old fashioned, if I managed to brighten them up I'd happily live with it. Unlike the other residents of the house!

JMurph

Thought I'd update, finally finished sanding last night, and I'd think twice before sanding such an amount of wood again. The old layers of varnish and tobacco and grime being sanded created such a mess all over the house, not only dust but a terrible smell too! I'll need to wash the carpet through too.

BUT - the banisters look good and light now, and are ready for treatment and painting (I think I'll go for a white satin, it will keep the area looking bright). Still plenty of work to do, primer and several coats, but I'll get there.

I hate taking hardearned days off work to do lots of diy at home!