Exterior Veneer and Wood - Kitchen Cabinets

[micktaylor]

We have a 2007 Cougar 5th Wheel. After several months of storage we have noticed that on the outside veneer and wood panels of our kitchen cabinets a white film has appeared, almost as if a white substance had been sprayed on the surfaces. Have tried to use furniture polish which does seem to cure the problem for a while but it then reappears as bad as before. It seems to affect only areas close to the outside door. Can anyone help me with this??? Thank you.

[Festus2]

What you might be seeing is "blush" - a white film that sometimes appears on finished wood surfaces. The film is most likely caused by moisture which has found its way into the wood, its finish or from improper application. The wood used to make the cabinets may not have been completely dry before it was stained or finished with a clear coat spray.

I believe there is a product called "Blush Remover" (or something like that) which might help you with the film. Google it for more info.

I doubt if furniture polish is a long-term answer to this problem.

I would also look into the "storage" of your unit. If it sits for long periods without being opened up, windows and vents closed, is covered, or a leak somewhere there may be a buildup of moisture inside your unit. If the doors are constructed mainly of compressed wood/particle board, they would be susceptible to moisture penetration. When in storage, there should be proper ventilation to allow the air to circulate inside the unit. Cracking open a few windows, vents and cupboard doors will help keep the air moving. Using a dehumidifier or moisture-absorbing crystals will also help.

[sourdough]

I think Festus is right. You will have to clean the film from the wood before you can make it go away....if you can get it completely off. Furniture polish just makes it less visible for a short period.

[Nick & Gia's Trailer]

Festus2 is correct. This is a "blushing" on the wood. This is caused by the moisture in the wood or by any moisture when the finish was applied, such as a very humid day. I have had this "blushing" happen on furniture that I have made. Mostly from wood that still had a high moisture content. A common form of "blushing" would be from a cool drinking glasses left on furniture that leaves a white ring when the glass is removed.

The only way that I know of to remove it is with denatured alcohol, sand paper or fine steel wool, along with a clear lacquer. Not an easy task.

Google "Removing blush from wood" and you should find procedures for doing so.

As also posted, moisture build up from being stored without ventilation my cause "blushing".

Hope this helps

[micktaylor]

Hi Folks,

I think you have the answer. When we bought the trailer it had been in storage for some time and the inside did smell very musty. Will try your suggestion and am sure our problem will be solved. Thanks for all the input.