I think i'm gonna be in the Dog house? What do you think caused this?

Question

The table mats are Leather tops and cork on the underside. (Has spilt beer caused this??) The pictures are on my site in LETTERBOX (main page) Is there anything poor WINDOWS can do??? The tables are pretty new!!!!!!

http://area102.piczo.com/?cr=4&rfm=y

Answer 1

Spilled water or a wet glass can leave a white stain on wood furniture. Often, complete stripping and refinishing are the only solution. But there are two solvents that can sometimes remove water marks in a few minutes without harming the finish. Both solvents give off nasty fumes, so work outside in a well-ventilated area. If you think the piece might be especially old or valuable, consult an antiques dealer before trying these remedies.

First, rub the stain with a soft rag dipped in mineral spirits. If the original finish has a coating of wax over it, there’s a good chance that only the wax has turned white. Mineral spirits removes wax without harming the underlying finish. Have patience; the mineral spirits may take a few minutes to soften the wax. If the stain disappears but leaves the rubbed area looking dull, clean the entire surface with mineral spirits and apply a new coat of furniture wax.

If mineral spirits doesn’t work, gently wipe the stain using a soft rag lightly dampened with denatured alcohol. Alcohol can damage some finishes, so test it on an inconspicuous spot first. Stop every minute or so to examine the finish to make sure you’re not damaging it. Again, have patience. Sometimes alcohol can draw out moisture that’s trapped in the finish, but it works slowly. If you don’t see any results after five minutes, refinishing is the only way to remove the mark.

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Last Updated: 2005-06-01

Answer 2

It looks like liquid (not necessarily beer) was trapped under all 3 mats, and messed up the finish. I can't believe you spilled that much beer; it would have been running off the table on all 4 sides!! Also, if it was spilled beer, the sogged mats (and possssibly the floor) would stink like stale beer. Also, dried up beer leaves a sticky residue. IMO it was not beer.

Is it possible that someone washed the mats; water soaked into the cork backing, and they were placed on the table, and the trapped water caused the damaged spots?

Some of the others already gave possible repair methods; hope it works!

Answer 3

That effect is caused by water interacting with the wax in furniture polish. Use a light stripper, not a varnish remover, and then take it right back off... this will remove the wax from the top of the table. Afterwards, use either a clear coat, or an oil finish to refinish the surface. Oil base will resist water so that this won't happen again in the future.

Answer 4

Oh dear, you'd better get a heater for the kennel cos I think you might be moving in soon!

Joking aside. You may be able to remove those marks by using a cloth dampened with vinegar. Then wait till the table is completely dry before you polish it. Not sure but it won't make it any worse that's for sure. Good Luck! x

Answer 5

I have seen this effect on the tables in the pub after a wet beer-mat has been moved, it normally disapears by the morning

Answer 6

Ha ha ..... No problem mate. its obvious that the table has had objects on mats and been situated in the sunlight. your Mrs has not been doing the house work whilst you been on missions. now you have found out that she only polishes around things . she has got in first blaming you when you were to drunk to know any better. check under other ornaments. you may have a way out. good luck .

Answer 7

OOOh, I love your page....I got so distracted with your
music I forgot about the leather....I'll try and check back
with you, hey, can I bookmark your page?

Answer 8

if i was you,i`d get that caravan restored,and quick !! love the website,especially your son,well i think he`s yours.