How to Remove Polyurethane From Oak

An oak cabinet after removing a polyurethane finish.

Polyurethane is a lacquer applied to wood surfaces to protect the wood and improve its appearance. Polyurethane loses its luster over time from age and use. Removing the polyurethane finish will restore the oak to its natural appearance. After removing the polyurethane, you can apply the finish of your choice.

Things You'll Need

• Plastic sheeting
• Plastic gloves
• Lacquer/paint stripper
• Paint brush
• Small plastic putty knife
• Large plastic putty knife
• Lint-free cotton rags

Instructions

1. Open windows for ventilation. Stripper has a very pungent smell. You may wish to put a fan facing toward an open window to pull the smell out of the area in which you are working. Use plastic sheeting to cover the floor under the area where you are working to protect the floor. Place the oak object onto the plastic. Put on the plastic gloves.

2. Pour a small amount of stripper onto the oak. Spread the stripper by brushing it with a clean paint brush. Continue to pour stripper and spread it with a paint brush. Allow the stripper to penetrate the polyurethane for a few minutes.

3. Scrape off the stripper with a plastic putty knife. Use a large putty knife for large areas and a small putty knife for corners and edges. The stripper will lift the polyurethane with it as you scrape the surfaces. Wipe off the entire area with a cotton rag.

4. Reapply the stripper with a paint brush to areas with any remaining polyurethane residue. Remove the stripper with a putty knife.

5. Dampen a cotton rag with warm water. Wipe the oak with the dampened rag to remove any remaining residue.

Tips & Warnings

• Stripper comes in a variety of applications, including a thick gel, liquid and spray. Choose a stripper that works best for the oak surface from which you plan on removing the polyurethane.

References

• "Ortho's Home Improvement Encyclopedia"; Larry Erickson