Wood Finishes, Bleaching Wood Surfaces

Whether it is lightening the color of dark wood grains like walnut or attempting to lighten an already dark, previously stained wood surface, bleaching wood can modify the color of wood grain without damaging or destroying the wood’s unique characteristics. These bleached surfaces give the painter an ability to treat surfaces that result in very desirable coloration and finish.

The beauty of walnut and it’s unique variations in grain can become a beautiful accent in any setting. However, because of the extreme light and dark areas of walnut, simply staining and/or finishing these surfaces can result in an undesirable appearance that does little to highlight the beautiful grain of this type of wood.

A particular wood bleaching method that has proven very effective for Hoppe Brothers & Sons Co. is the use of Klean Strip Wood Bleach. Whether it is treating newly installed wood paneling, repairing stains on wood furniture or removing a dark colored stain from cabinetry or other wood trim Klean Strip Wood Bleach is an excellent remedy. This product is sold as a two-part system consisting of an A and a B solution. (The purpose of Solution A is to open the grain of the wood so Solution B can penetrate the surface and bleach the grain. These solutions can be applied separately but missing a small area with Solution A will prevent Solution B from doing its job.) Most often, these two components are mixed together in a 50/50 solution, as per the manufacturer’s instructions, and applied to the surface with a nylon brush. The results are noticeable almost immediately and will render a surface lighter and more consistent in color. Neutralizing the treated wood surface is accomplished with a diluted solution of vinegar. Since these wood treatments are water based they will have a tendency to raise the grain on wood so a light sanding is recommended before staining or sealing of the treated surface.

IMPORTANT: Remember to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and observe all cautions for proper and safe use of this chemical.

Caulking Made Easier!
If you often find yourself with fingers practically glued together and one finger almost ready to start bleeding, the stuff all over your ‘whites’ and your rag virtually impossible to unfold, then its time for a change!!

Caulking is a great way to improve on the aesthetics of your paint job. It’s also a necessity for creating barriers to water penetration. But when it comes to applying the material, too often it results in an unpleasant, messy affair. If you’re one of those people that dreads the task of caulking you may consider the following suggestions.

Next time the job of caulking falls on your shoulders grab your caulk, gun, (pot hook, if necessary), cotton T-shirt rag and a two gallon pot about 1/2 full of water . By incorporating all of these ingredients to your caulking work nice things start to happen. For one, a bucket of water keeps your rag wet and allows you to rinse it out regularly. By doing this, you always have a clean place to wipe off excess material from your fingers and a wet finger makes working with the caulk easier as well. Your rag can also protect your fingers on rough surfaces. And at the end of each day, rather than throwing your rag away, you give those rags a final rinse and they’re ready for the next day’s abuse. With this setup on hand at each job, you always have it available for doing better work. Finally, setting the nose of your caulking gun down in the water keeps the caulk from drying out at the tip. Utilize these suggestions on hot days and you will find the task of caulking much easier.

Although this may seem basic and a method you already use daily, the point of this tip is to emphasize the importance of employing techniques that make your job easier, your appearance cleaner, your work more professional, and less labor intensive. Tips like these make you and your job look better and ultimately earn you more money.