What to Know Before Refinishing A Tabletop
Refinishing a table top is more than a fresh coat of finish. For many Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Chapel Hill, and Wake Forest homeowners, refinishing a dining table is an investment in a piece that has history, quality construction, and years of life left in it. It can completely transform the surface, change the color, protect the wood, and create a durable, smooth finish that holds up to daily use. However, before you commit to refinishing, it is important to understand what determines whether the project will be successful. The most important factor is not age or style, but what the table is actually made of.
Is Your Table Worth Refinishing?
Refinishing a dining table is more than a cosmetic choice — it’s a decision between preserving craftsmanship and replacing it with something mass-produced and disposable. But how do you know if your table is really worth the investment?
Many modern retail tables are made from MDF or HDF (engineered fiberboard). These pieces can look great when new, but they are not always built with longevity in mind. A thin printed veneer or photo-realistic wood pattern sits on top, giving the illusion of real wood. Over time, moisture, heat, or even routine cleaning can cause bubbling, peeling, discoloration, and surface breakdown. In many cases, these tables simply cannot be sanded or restored once the surface fails.
Older tables, on the other hand, were built with intention. Heirloom and vintage pieces were crafted from solid hardwood, or a high-quality wood veneer bonded to a solid wood core. These materials respond beautifully to refinishing and were designed to last for generations. When restored correctly, they often look better than when they were new — and will continue to age gracefully.
At Finish Pros, we specialize in furniture refinishing in Raleigh, NC, and we see a clear pattern: well-built tables are almost always worth the time and care to refinish. And yes — veneer tables absolutely can be refinished, as long as the process is done correctly.
What Are You Working With? Solid Wood vs. Veneer vs. Fiberboard
Before any refinishing begins, the most important step is identifying what the table is made of. The material determines how much sanding it can tolerate, what finishes can be used, and how long the results will last.
Common types of table construction:
- Solid Wood; The best candidate for refinishing. It’s durable, repairable, and can be sanded multiple times. Often found in heirloom furniture and high-quality dining sets.
- Wood Veneer over Solid Wood; A thin decorative wood layer bonded to a solid core. Common in antiques, mid-century pieces, and fine furniture. With professional handling, veneer refinishes beautifully and retains its original character.
- Veneer over MDF/HDF; A decorative veneer applied to engineered wood. These pieces look good initially but tend to be more delicate. They can be refinished successfully, but require expert sanding and sealing to avoid damaging the thin surface.
Older furniture — whether inherited or found secondhand — is almost always worth refinishing. It offers quality materials, structural longevity, and real wood that today’s fast furniture simply can’t compete with.
Understanding Veneer, Formica, and What Can Actually Be Refinished
Not all table surfaces are created equal, and part of determining whether your piece is a good candidate for refinishing is understanding what it’s made from. Many homeowners hear the word “veneer” and assume the furniture is cheap — but that’s not always the case.
What is Veneer?
A veneer is a thin sheet of real wood that is bonded to a solid core beneath it. Veneers allow woodworkers to use highly beautiful or exotic species — such as walnut, mahogany, or satinwood — without building an entire table out of that material. This is why many mid-century and antique pieces have stunning grain patterns or decorative inlays. Veneer is real wood, just in a thinner layer.
Can it be refinished? Yes — veneer tables can be refinished successfully, as long as the process is handled with care. Because veneer is thinner than solid wood, sanding must be controlled and precise. At Finish Pros, we use professional equipment and staged sanding to protect the veneer surface while removing the original finish evenly.
Illustration showing the layers of veneered furniture: protective lacquer finish, decorative veneer layer, and underlying base structure.
Many of our most dramatic transformations — especially in the case studies below — were veneer tables restored with professional furniture refinishing. So if you’ve been searching – custom table refinishing near me, don’t rule out your veneered table. With the right professional approach, veneer refinishes beautifully and often looks more elegant than a solid wood top.
What About Formica or Laminate? Can Those Be Refinished?
Formica (a brand name for laminate) is not real wood — it is a printed plastic-like material fused to a substrate. Laminate tables were never designed to be stripped, sanded, or re-stained, which is why DIY attempts often end in peeling, melting, or permanent surface damage.
Can Formica be refinished? Not in the traditional sense. You cannot sand it down to bare material or apply wood stain. However, laminate can sometimes be:
- Repainted with specialized bonding primers
- Refinished with commercial lacquer systems
- Re-coated to cover scratches or discoloration
So while you won’t get a “wood-stain” result with Formica, a professional refinishing shop can help improve the appearance — especially for customers who want a durable paint-grade or lacquer finish.
If you’re unsure whether your tabletop is wood, veneer, or laminate, we can tell with a quick evaluation. Many clients send a photo for a free assessment, and we’ll let you know whether refinishing is a good investment or if replacement makes more sense.
How Wood Species Affect Stain Color
Even once you know whether a table is solid wood, veneer, or laminate, there’s another factor that determines refinishing success: the wood species itself. Every species absorbs stain differently, which is why the same stain can look warm and rich on one table, but muddy or red on another. This is something homeowners rarely realize until they try a DIY stain and end up with blotches, streaks, or a tone they didn’t expect.
Here’s how some common woods behave:
- Cherry naturally contains red and pink undertones. Without a tinted sealer, stains can turn cherry a bright red or burgundy — which is why so many homeowners ask us to neutralize cherry into cooler, modern tones.
- Oak has a bold, open grain that absorbs stain deeply. Even when stained dark, the grain remains visible, making oak ideal for rustic or dramatic finishes.
- Maple is dense and can absorb stain unevenly. Without proper sealing, maple can turn blotchy or patchy, especially in lighter colors.
- Walnut has a rich natural tone and often needs only a clear or lightly tinted lacquer. Too much staining can actually flatten the beauty of the grain.
- Mahogany accepts stain well, but its deep red tones can overpower light finishes unless toned down with specialized sealers.
Because of these natural variations, choosing a stain is not as simple as picking a swatch. Undertones, grain, age of the wood, and existing finish all influence the final look.
At Finish Pros, we combine custom stains, pigmented glazes, and tinted sealers to achieve the exact color a client wants — whether that’s a bright natural finish or a deep modern espresso. This level of control is one major reason why professional refinishing delivers better, more predictable results than DIY.
Why Refinishing Matters
Refinished wood dining table with rich stain and satin finish by Finish Pros in Raleigh NC.
A table is more than a flat surface. It’s the heart of family gatherings — where holidays are celebrated, homework is done, meals are shared, and memories are made. Refinishing protects the structural integrity of the wood, restores its beauty, and prevents future damage from moisture, heat, and daily use.
Whether a table has been passed down through generations or discovered at an estate sale, refinishing gives it a second life. Many homeowners are surprised at how dramatically a table can change with the right stain, lacquer sheen, and careful craftsmanship. A dark, dated surface can become bright and modern; scratches and heat marks can disappear completely.
The Finish Pros Process: Professional Refinishing in Raleigh NC
At Finish Pros, every table tells a story — and our goal is to ensure that story continues for generations. Our refinishing process is guided by three principles: longevity, beauty, and precision. Over years of experience, we’ve developed a proven process that combines traditional craftsmanship with modern finishing technology. Here are our steps:
1. Evaluation and Pickup
Every project begins with a full assessment. We examine the table’s construction, wood species, veneer thickness, previous coatings, and any structural concerns. We also walk clients through color goals, sheen levels, and design preferences — whether you want natural wood, a dramatic rich tone, or a modern painted base. Once the plan is approved, the table is transported to our Raleigh furniture refinishing shop.
2. Stripping and Surface Preparation
We hand-strip the old finish to protect delicate details and remove buildup. The top is sanded through multiple grits to create a smooth, even surface while preserving the veneer. This step is critical — and is where most DIY attempts go wrong. One overly aggressive pass with a sander can permanently damage veneer.
3. Sealing and Staining
Wood tones can shift during restoration, especially cherry, mahogany, and walnut. We use tinted sanding sealers to neutralize red or orange undertones before applying stain. Custom stains, glazes, and washes are then layered to enhance grain, deepen color, and bring out the natural beauty of the wood.
4. Lacquer Finishing and Grain Fill
Next comes protection. Multiple coats of professional lacquer are sprayed for a smooth, furniture-grade finish — with fine sanding between layers for maximum clarity and durability. Satin, matte, and gloss options are available. For open-grain woods like oak or mahogany, we add a grain-filling step to create an ultra-smooth, glass-like surface often seen in luxury furniture.
5. Underside Sealing
One of our signature steps — and one that many overlook — is sealing the underside of solid wood tables. This crucial detail helps prevent uneven moisture absorption, reducing the risk of warping, cracking, or separation over time.
At Finish Pros, refinishing is as much about preservation as it is about presentation. Each step is designed to honor the craftsmanship of the original piece while preparing it for decades of continued use and beauty.
Real Results: Before & After Transformations
Here are three recent refinishing projects from the Finish Pros team:
Heirloom Cherry Table: Modern Greige Conversion
This classic cherry dining table, inherited from a client’s grandmother, originally featured rich red undertones that clashed with the soft, modern tones of her Wake Forest home.
Working closely with our in-house designer, we selected a muted greige stain for the top and a rich black lacquer for the apron and legs, applied in a dull rubbed satin sheen.
Heirloom cherry dining table refinished with a custom greige stain and black lacquer base by Finish Pros in Raleigh NC.
The Process:
- Hand-stripped original finish
- Custom greige-toned stain to neutralize red
- Black lacquer on apron and legs in satin sheen
- Sealed underside for long-term stability
The result: a beautifully updated piece that honors family history while complementing a contemporary dining room.
Inlaid Mahogany Table on HDF Core
This formal round table featured stunning mahogany, satinwood, and ebony inlays — but beneath its luxurious surface lay an HDF core. Years of wear and a high-gloss finish had magnified every scratch and flaw, creating an unsightly, cloudy surface.
Despite its engineered substrate, the top and base materials were premium — and worth saving!
Mahogany dining table with satinwood and ebony inlay, professionally refinished with grain fill and satin lacquer by Finish Pros.
Process:
Hand-stripped the existing glossy finish.
Repaired the dog chewed damage on the base and smoothed veneer imperfections.
Selected a slightly lighter stain tone for a modernized look.
Grain filled the wood to achieve a glass-smooth surface.
Applied dull-rubbed lacquer coats, with sanding between each.
The result? A refined, elegant table that maintains its decorative beauty while offering a more subtle, updated appearance.
Alderwood Veneer Table: Espresso to Natural
This understated Alderwood veneer table arrived at Finish Pros in nearly black espresso stain, which overwhelmed the wood’s natural character. Our client sought a lighter, more natural tone to brighten her living space.
Process:
Expert stripping of the dark espresso finish without damaging the delicate veneer.
Precision sanding and prep to reveal the warm tone of the Alderwood underneath.
Application of a light natural stain and multiple satin clear coats.
Alderwood veneer table stripped from espresso finish to a natural wood tone with satin clear coat by Finish Pros near Wake Forest NC.
The final table offers a clean, natural wood appearance with a contemporary feel — a perfect example of modern furniture refinishing.
DIY vs. Professional: The Smarter Way to Save Your Table
While DIY tutorials make table refinishing look simple, the reality is much more delicate — especially with veneer or antique wood. The most common DIY mistakes we repair include:
- Over-sanding veneer until it’s too thin to stain
- Using oil-based stains that amplify red tones
- Skipping sanding between coats, causing bubbling and peeling
- Only sealing the top, which eventually leads to warping
Professional refinishing avoids these risks using controlled sanding systems, commercial-grade sealers, and high-quality lacquer finishes. If you’ve searched for furniture refinishing Raleigh NC, antique furniture refinishing near me, or professional furniture restoration Raleigh, expert help will always protect your investment better than DIY.
Got Questions About Refinishing Your Table?
Here are some of the most common questions we hear from clients in Raleigh, Durham, Cary, and across the Triangle — answered by our expert refinishers.
How long does table refinishing take?
The average turnaround for professional table refinishing is 3–6 weeks, depending on the extent of repairs, color customization, and lacquer curing time. At Finish Pros, we prioritize quality and durability, so each step — from stripping and sanding to staining and sealing — is completed with precision and care. If you’re searching for furniture refinishing near me or custom refinishing services in Raleigh NC, timing may also vary based on current demand and project complexity.
Can you remove water marks, heat rings, or stains from wood tables?
Yes, in most cases! Water rings and heat marks are usually embedded in the old finish — not the wood itself — and will disappear once the finish is stripped and the surface is properly prepped. However, when a ring has penetrated through the finish (common with overwatered plants or long-standing spills), the damage may reach the wood grain. In those situations, we use specialized techniques to minimize or completely remove the stain, depending on the depth.
Whether it’s antique furniture restoration or modern veneer tables, our team carefully evaluates the damage and recommends the best refinishing method to restore your piece to its former beauty.
Is it cheaper to refinish a table or buy a new one?
In most cases, refinishing a solid wood or heirloom table is more cost-effective — and far more sustainable — than replacing it with a mass-produced alternative. Modern furniture is often made with MDF or laminate, which doesn’t last as long and can’t be refinished in the future. A well-built table, once restored, can last another 20–50 years or more.
If you’ve been comparing furniture refinishing vs. buying new, remember that custom refinishing allows you to update the color, finish, and style while retaining the superior quality of older furniture.
Can you refinish veneer or engineered wood tables?
Absolutely — as long as it’s done correctly. Veneer furniture refinishing requires a light, controlled sanding process to protect the thin wood layer. At Finish Pros, we work with all types of construction, including wood veneer over MDF or HDF, and use professional-grade tools to ensure a smooth, even finish without damage.
Many of our most stunning transformations came from veneer tables that clients initially thought were “unrefinishable.” Don’t rule yours out before getting a professional opinion!
What if I don’t know what my table is made of?
You’re not alone — many clients aren’t sure whether their table is solid wood, veneer, or laminate. That’s why we offer free photo assessments. Just send us a few clear images, and our team will quickly let you know what your table is made of and whether refinishing is the right solution.
This simple step saves time, avoids unnecessary costs, and ensures you’re making an informed decision. It’s part of why Finish Pros is a top choice for furniture refinishing in Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Chapel Hill, and Wake Forest.
Will the new stain match my existing furniture?
Yes — or we can intentionally contrast it. We offer custom stain matching and color creation, using layered techniques like tinted sealers, glazes, and pigmented lacquers. Whether you want to neutralize red tones in cherry, lighten a dark espresso finish, or match your new floors, we can achieve the exact tone you’re looking for.
Because every wood species absorbs stain differently, our finishers test and fine-tune each formula to ensure a beautiful, cohesive result.
Can you change the color of my table completely?
Yes, that’s one of the most common requests! Whether you want to go from dark to light, warm to cool, or traditional to modern, we offer full-color transformations.
Our clients frequently ask for:
Espresso to natural finishes
Cherry to greige or driftwood
Mahogany toned down with cooler undertones
Black lacquer bases with contrasting stained tops
Explore our before-and-after gallery above to see just how transformative professional refinishing can be.
Do you offer pickup and delivery?
Yes — Finish Pros offers pickup and delivery across Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Wake Forest, and Chapel Hill. Our team handles your furniture with care from the moment we arrive until it’s safely returned, fully refinished and ready to use.
Ready to Restore Your Table?
If you have a dining table, coffee table, or family heirloom that deserves a second life, Finish Pros can help determine its value, condition, and the best refinishing approach. From solid cherry and walnut to delicate decorative veneers, our finishes are durable, beautiful, and designed to stand up to everyday use.
Not sure if your table is a good candidate?
Send us a photo — we’ll tell you exactly what’s possible before you spend time or money.
Serving Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Wake Forest, Chapel Hill, and the surrounding Triangle.
If you’ve been searching for furniture refinishing Raleigh NC, furniture refinishing Durham NC, or custom table refinishing near me, Finish Pros is the trusted choice.
Contact our team today to bring your table back to life — the right way.
