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I recently came across a pattern of cracks in the finish on a ten year old
DR table (Bernhardt brand, if that means anything) and wondered if someone
might recognize it and maybe know the likely cause(s)-- and what if anything
can be done about it short of refinishing. Pictures are attached.
Three observations. (1), the crack pattern is always aligned perpendicular
to the grain (presumably ruling out dimensional change and/or checking in
the substrate as causes); (2), the cracks are all fairly close to the edges
of the table; (3), the effect was first noticed some years ago and seems to
be progressive; and, (4), the cracks do not seem to extend down to the wood
(hard to be sure of that).
My thought was that the problem might be due to use of a topcoat(s) that was
or became harder than earlier coats; in that scenario, the people leaning
their elbows on the table, say, might cause cracking of the brittle
topcoat(s).
Any thoughts? Suggestions?
SteveC
Manalapan, NJ
