To Dip or not to Dip? Need tons of wood stripped

We are closing on a gut rehab soon and have pretty much purchased a shell. The only thing left in the entire house for the most part is the original staircase, BUT the owner has kept a full floor of the house which contains all the original moldings, mantels, etc. Ideally we would like to strip all of this wood, although it isn’t painted, and bring it all back to life. It is a 4 story brownstone and i feel like there are miles of this stuff. What do you all suggest to do? I really don’t want to buy new. Should I hire someone to do this work manually day in and day out? I would imagine it would take someone months to do all of this work and cost us a pretty penny. Or should we take all of it to a place that dips the wood and strips it such as Dip and Strip? What is the general consensus here?

stuyheights

in Brownstoner Renovation 10 years and 11 months ago

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22 replies

daveinbedstuy | 10 years and 11 months ago

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I don’t know how GreenThinker can say that without seeing what shape they are in. the best way to find out is to just get some quotes. Also, what kind of wood is it? If it is oak, walnut or mahogany it is probably worth it but if it is poplar or pine, maybe not.

GreenThinker | 10 years and 11 months ago

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It’s really not worth it. You’re better off going to dykes lumber and matching all the original molding. It’ll end up being cheaper, quicker and look better. Once removed these 100+ year old moldings are in no shape to be put back on new drywall.