DIY Home Improvement Forum banner

Mold on railing

2K views 4 replies 3 participants last post by  oh'mike 
#1 ·
We used to hang wet clothes (delicates like sweaters) on this railing. I think the black spots are mold. Any ideas on removing the mold without damaging the finish?
 

Attachments

See less See more
2
#3 ·
That is NOT mold-----

You have a red oak hand rail with failing finish---

Red oak turns gray or black when it gets wet----the natural tannins in the oak cause the color change--

that hand rail has been washed with water more than once-----

Cure? strip, sand, restain and varnish/poly--

and do not wash oak with water-----
 
  • Like
Reactions: BigJim
#5 ·
I'd suggest Marine strip or Stripeze---any good chemical stripper will do---

If you can limit the stripping to the top ans sides and leave the bottom alone --your job will be easier----

You will also need mineral spirits and steel wool---

Do not us water to wash off the stripper---this is red oak and it will turn gray if you do that---

then hand sand---and coat with three coats of oil based poly----
 
This is an older thread, you may not receive a response, and could be reviving an old thread. Please consider creating a new thread.
Top