Refinishing maple stair hand railings

[mikefm101]

Hi

The stair railings in our house are 20 years old and the finish is getting worn and dirt is getting embedded in.

I’d like to refinish them.

I think some time hand sanding is better over chemical stripper however I’m not sure what a good clear top coat is.

Arm R Seal comes to mind. Will that hold up or should I go with a thicker film like spar varnish?

Mike

[jteneyck]

Hi

The stair railings in our house are 20 years old and the finish is getting worn and dirt is getting embedded in.  

I’d like to refinish them.  

I think some time hand sanding is better over chemical stripper however I’m not sure what a good clear top coat is.  

Arm R Seal comes to mind.  Will that hold up or should I go with a thicker film like spar varnish?

Mike

I used Arm-R-Seal on some curly maple handrails I made over 10 years ago.  After 5 years of daily use they still looked great.  Haven't had a chance to see them since then.  Three to five thin coats on most woods should be fine.  

If you like a little darker look consider Waterlox Original.  Same easy wiping varnish and also very durable.  

john