How to Restore a Wooden Fire Ladder
Wooden surfaces lose their finish over time, especially if they have been exposed to sunlight and moisture. The wood becomes dull and loses density. Treat a wooden fire ladder with a wood stain and varnish to restore its natural color and texture, and protect it as well.
Things You'll Need
- 100-grit sanding sponge
- Tack cloth
- Wood stain
- Natural-bristle brush
- Rags
- Sanding sealer
- 280-grit sanding sponge
- Polyurethane wood varnish
Instructions
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1
Sand with the 100-grit sanding sponge to smooth out nicks, scratches and worn areas. This prepares the surface for staining.
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2
Dust the ladder to remove the grit from sanding, then wipe it down with a tack cloth to get any remaining sawdust.
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3
Stir the stain thoroughly, then apply an even coat using a natural-bristle brush. Quickly wipe away any excess product.
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4
Let the stain dry overnight, then brush on a sanding sealer. Use long strokes following the grain of the wood. Once that is dry to the touch, smooth it thoroughly with a 280-grit sanding sponge.
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5
Seal and protect the finish using a polyurethane wood varnish. Apply the product with a painter's rag or foam applicator brush. Allow it to cure overnight, then sand with the 280-grit sponge.
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6
Repeat the procedure to apply at least one to two more coats of varnish, which will seal the moisture in the wood; this will prevent cracking, drying and warping. Do not sand the top coat.
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References
- Photo Credit Wooden ladder image by Tasha from Fotolia.com