Refinish vs Restore vs Refurbish: What Does It All Mean?
June 9, 2025
When it comes to breathing new life into old furniture, terms like Refinish, Restore, and Refurbish are often used interchangeably—but they mean very different things. Knowing the difference can help you set the right expectations for your project, choose the correct techniques, and select the best materials.
At JA Milton Upholstery, we support every level of furniture transformation—from light refreshes to full restorations. Here’s what each term really means and when you might use them.
What is Refinishing?
Refinishing involves stripping away a furniture piece’s existing finish (like paint, varnish, or stain) and applying a new one. This is primarily a cosmetic update, often done on wooden surfaces such as tables, chair frames, or headboards.
When to Refinish:
- The wood finish is scratched, dull, or flaking
- You want to change the colour or sheen (e.g., from dark stain to light)
- The structure is sound, but the surface needs attention
Key Steps in Refinishing:
- Strip the old finish using a chemical remover or sanding
- Sand the wood to smooth and prepare the surface
- Apply a new stain, paint, or varnish
- Seal with a protective topcoat
Best Tools & Supplies:
- Sandpaper or orbital sander
- Wood stain or paint
- Varnish or polyurethane
- Brushes, rags, and gloves
Refinishing = Surface-level transformation.
What is Restoring?
Restoration is the process of returning a piece of furniture as closely as possible to its original condition. Unlike refinishing, which is aesthetic, restoration can include structural repair, original finish preservation, and even fabric replacement—especially important for antique or heirloom pieces.
When to Restore:
- You have a valuable or sentimental antique
- The piece needs internal or structural repairs
- You want to preserve its historic or original elements
Common Restoration Tasks:
- Tightening joints or replacing missing parts
- Re-gluing frame components
- Cleaning and reviving original finishes
- Reupholstering with historically accurate materials
Best Tools & Supplies:
- Wood glue, clamps, and wood filler
- Touch-up markers or stain pens
- Traditional upholstery tools and materials
- Gentle cleaners for delicate finishes
Restoring = Honouring the past while preserving integrity.
What is Refurbishing?
Refurbishing is a broader, more flexible approach. It can include both refinishing and restoring, but is generally more focused on improving usability and aesthetics than on historical accuracy. Refurbishing may involve updates, repairs, and even modern twists—like using new fabric or paint colours.
When to Refurbish:
- The piece is outdated or worn but not antique
- You want to give it a modern look or repurpose it
- You need to fix or refresh furniture for resale or staging
Common Refurbishment Projects:
- Painting an old chair in a bold colour
- Replacing the fabric on a tired ottoman
- Installing new hardware or legs on a cabinet
- Combining new and old elements
Best Tools & Supplies:
- Paints, stains, or spray finishes
- Modern upholstery fabrics
- Replacement hardware
- General DIY tools
Refurbishing = Functional and aesthetic upgrades with creative freedom.
Summary: Know the Difference
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re refinishing a scratched coffee table, restoring a Victorian chair, or refurbishing a tired footstool, each approach offers a unique opportunity to enhance your furniture.
Understanding the difference between Refinish, Restore, and Refurbish helps you plan your project more effectively—and choose the best products and methods for the job.
Transform your Furniture with JA Milton
At JA Milton Upholstery, we supply everything you need for Refinishing, Restoring, or Refurbishing furniture. From premium upholstery fabrics and wood finishes to tools, springs, and trims—we help DIYers and professionals create stunning results.
Start your next project today
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Your furniture deserves a second chance—give it the finish it deserves with JA Milton.
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