Staining Luan Philipine Mahogany Panels
FlyingContractor
| Posted in Construction Techniques on
Hey Guys,
Doing an “eichler” remodel currently, with a budget minded h/o who originally wanted the 1/2″ phil. mahogany luan panels pre-stained, hung and ‘touched-up’ after they were hung. Now of course, the ‘touching-up’ at nail holes, etc. has caused darker circles/areas around the touch-up. What do you guys think is the best course of correction, re-wiping the entire panels with stain quickly to even the tones, or complete sanding and re-stain? Or is there an alternative that’s even better?
Thanks!!
Replies
With pre-stained or pre-finished materials, we normally use a matching color putty to fill nail holes. There is no need for sanding with this product. You should have at least one application of your top coat on before using it, putty the holes and then apply the additional top coats. A word of caution with luan, don't run your hand over the raw surface unless you want a thousand hairy little splinters.
If you have sanded filler at nail holes, on a stained sheet, you will have a hard time hiding it. The only thing that may work is sanding a much larger area and then blending in the stain artistically. A spot area will have more of a tendency to show than a large area.
Beat it to fit / Paint it to match
Unfortunately the damage appears to be done! How do you think they will take sanding the full sheets and re-staining?
I think I would try to fix things without doing the entire sheet, first. I would extend the sanded area and try to blend in, so there was not an obvious delineation where the sanding started and ended. You will have to be careful not to damage any veneer. I can't say I've ever been in your situation. Large sheets on a wall can be quite visible. I'd make up something to practice on from the scraps. I wouldn't be afraid to try some paint thinner or naphtha on the stain to try to cut back the color. I think you have to avoid having a concentrated area of sanding in a circular spot or other visible patch. Maybe sand the entire length of the effected area and try to feather where it meets the good part. I find using rags, to apply and work the stain, allows you to add a little in some places and lighten in others. I would also consider my time in comparison to the cost and installation of new material.Beat it to fit / Paint it to match