1. Site Protection and Preparation a. Install protective coverings over adjacent surfaces, including enamel-painted cast iron balustrade caps, to prevent damage from solvents, finishes, or abrasives. b. Ensure public access to adjacent stair areas is maintained throughout the project, with clear signage and safe passageways. 2. Surface Cleaning a. Assess handrails for existing finishes and bare wood conditions. The handrails have a mix of undetermined previous finish and bare wood, both heavily soiled with hand oils and dirt. b. Clean existing waxes, oils and finishes from handrail using lacquer thinner and a rag to remove waxes, oils, and dirt. c. Avoid any abrasive methods during cleaning to preserve the integrity of the wood. 3. Surface Preparation a. Lightly sand the handrail using 150-grit abrasives to prepare for shellac application. b. Wipe down the sanded surface with a cotton cloth moistened with denatured alcohol to remove residual dust and contaminants. 4. Shellac Application • Apply two coats of dewaxed shellac (2-pound cut), allowing a minimum of 30 minutes drying time between coats. 5. Color Blending and Finish Prep a. Lightly scuff and sand the shellac-coated surface using a 220-grit abrasive pad. b. Tack the surface with a dry cotton cloth to remove fine dust. c. Apply a light coat of Renner water-based colorant mixed with finish to blend blemishes and discoloration of wood. d. Match the final tone and color to the approved mockup rail and adjacent wainscot. 6. Final Finish Application a. Apply two coats of Loba Supra A.T. semigloss finish, catalyzed per manufacturer’s specifications. b. Allow a minimum of one hour drying time between coats. 7. Cleanup and Scheduling a. Remove and properly dispose of all temporary protection materials. b. Schedule any noxious or messy work (e.g., solvent use, sanding) after 8:00 PM to minimize disruption to building occupants and visitors. c. Maintain one grand stair on each level for occupant use to allow closure of the other for multiple days to minimize potential vandalism/damage to newly applied finishes. d. East and West stairs may be shut down several days as needed to minimize potential vandalism/damage to newly applied finishes; adjacent elevators are available for occupant travel between floors.
