Sue WheelerWood Refinishing · St. Louis
BBB A+Accredited
EPA CertifiedLead Removal
Sue Answers Every CallPersonally
Historic Home Specialist36 Years
St. Louis Magazine"Perfect Finish"
Est. 1989St. Louis

Wood Refinishing Guides

Practical guides from 36 years of experience.

What you need to know before refinishing your woodwork — written by Sue Wheeler, not a content team.

Methods & Technique

Why Dip-Stripping Destroys Historic Woodwork

Chemical dip tanks raise wood grain, dissolve hide glue joinery, and leave old-growth wood looking flat. Here's what hand-stripping does instead — and how to tell which method a contractor uses.

April 2025 · Sue WheelerRead

Safety & Compliance

Lead Paint and Wood Refinishing in St. Louis

89.8% of St. Louis City homes predate 1978. If yours does, lead paint is almost certainly present. Here's what the EPA requires, what certification means, and how to verify a contractor.

April 2025 · Sue WheelerRead

Cost & Planning

How Much Does Wood Refinishing Cost in St. Louis?

Realistic price ranges for door refinishing, staircase refinishing, and kitchen cabinet refinishing in St. Louis — plus what drives cost up or down, and how it compares to replacement.

April 2025 · Sue WheelerRead

Ready to talk about your wood?

Free estimates. No obligation. Sue answers every call personally.