Yes, you can restore oak veneer furniture, just like other wood furniture, as long as the veneer is not too thin. However, you need to take extra care when removing the old finish to avoid damaging the veneer.
Assessing the Veneer
The first step is to determine if the furniture has a real wood veneer or a laminate surface. You can do this by gently sanding a small, inconspicuous area. If you see the wood grain, it’s a veneer. If it’s a uniform surface, it’s likely a laminate.
Next, check the thickness of the veneer. Veneer can be as thin as 1/8 of an inch, so you’ll need to be very careful when sanding to avoid going through the veneer and damaging the underlying material.
Refinishing the Veneer
When sanding the veneer, start with a light 100-grit sandpaper and work your way up to a finer 320-grit for a smooth finish. Sand in the direction of the wood grain and avoid sanding across it, which can damage the veneer’s appearance.
After sanding, apply a wood stain or finish of your choice, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Be sure to test the stain or finish on a hidden area first to ensure you get the desired color and appearance.
Finally, apply a protective clear coat, such as a polyurethane, to help protect the veneer from future wear and tear.