Hardwood veneer polyurethane coating removal

[Pendel]

What is the safest product to removal/ strip the polyurethane coating from this unit?  The veneer is Tasmanian Oak.  

[EricL]

Hello @Pendel 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about removing the polyurethan from your veneer cabinet.

If you are certain that it is a timber veneer, I suggest using an orbital sander with a 180grit sandpaper attached. Because the veneer is very thin, I suggest doing a single pass to test how much polyurethane it will strip. I propose doing a second pass if the surface still seems covered in polyurethane. Your goal is to remove the light coat on the surface without compromising the timber veneer on the surface. Once you are successful with removing the polyurethane, I suggest finishing the surface with a 240grit sandpaper to bring back its smoothness.

Here is a handy step-by-step guide:   How To Restore Furniture (the techniques used are applicable to your project)

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[Pendel]

Thanks for your advice Eric.   

I tried that technique on the top and found it took a lot of grunt to remove the coating. I accidentally removed too much veneer on one corner and have learnt that lesson.   

Is there a stripper that could assist to make it easier to do the rest of the unit which includes the trickier details of doors, draws and legs?  Or is sanding the best way given it is veneer?

[EricL]

Hello @Pendel 

I propose looking at using the Poly 1L Polystrippa Paint Stripper - 1L. It has excellent reviews and is rated to remove varnish as well. Please remember to wear personal protection such as gloves, goggles and mask when using the chemical stripper. Please note that it will still be necessary to sand the surface to remove any residual polyurethane that may have been left behind.

It is possible to use a lower grit count on the sandpaper such as 80 or 60 but just keep in mind that these will leave deep marks if overused in a single section and could possibly go through the veneer.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric