Piccot Refinishing: What to Know Before You Hire Them

Who Piccot Refinishing Is and What They Do

Piccot Refinishing is a South Carolina-based refinishing company that specializes in restoring and refinishing wood furniture, cabinetry, and architectural elements. They work with homeowners and businesses across the state who want to bring worn or outdated pieces back to life rather than replace them. The company handles everything from stripping old finishes to staining, sealing, and applying new protective coats.

The work ranges from small furniture pieces—dining tables, dressers, chairs—to larger projects like kitchen cabinets, built-in shelving, and doors. Piccot can also refinish wood floors and restore antique or heirloom pieces that have sentimental value. Their process typically involves assessing the wood's condition, removing the existing finish, repairing any damage, and applying new stain and sealant based on what the customer wants.

Key Takeaways

• Piccot Refinishing handles furniture, cabinetry, architectural woodwork, and floors across South Carolina.
• The refinishing process includes stripping old finishes, repairing wood damage, staining, and sealing with protective coats.
• You should get a quote and timeline before committing, since project duration depends on the piece's size and condition.
• Refinishing costs less than replacement for most pieces but requires understanding what the work involves and how long it takes.
• Communication about your desired finish—color, sheen level, durability needs—shapes the final result and cost.

How the Refinishing Process Works

Piccot's typical workflow starts with an in-person or photo assessment of the piece. They evaluate the wood type, current finish condition, any damage or stains, and what you want the final result to look like. This assessment determines whether the piece is a straightforward refinish or requires repair work like filling gouges, fixing loose joints, or replacing damaged veneer.

Once you agree to move forward, the company strips the old finish—usually with chemical strippers or sanding, depending on what will preserve the wood best. After stripping, they sand the wood smooth, make repairs as needed, and prepare the surface for new stain. You typically choose the stain color and finish type (matte, satin, or glossy) at this stage. Finally, they apply the stain and seal it with polyurethane, lacquer, or another protective topcoat. The piece then cures before delivery or pickup.

Timeline and What Affects How Long It Takes

A simple refinish on a small piece like a side table might take two to four weeks from start to finish. Larger projects—a full dining room set, kitchen cabinets, or a floor—can take six to twelve weeks or longer, depending on the scope and current condition of the wood. Curing time for the final finish also adds days to the timeline, since the piece cannot be used until the sealant has fully hardened.

Several factors change how long your project takes. Pieces with heavy damage, multiple coats of old finish, or intricate details take longer to strip and repair. If you choose a custom stain color that needs to be mixed or tested, that adds time. Seasonal demand also matters—spring and summer are busier for refinishing companies, so timelines may be longer during those months. Ask Piccot for a specific timeline when you get your quote, and clarify whether that includes curing time or just active work.

Cost Considerations and What Influences Price

Refinishing costs depend on the piece's size, the condition of the wood, how much repair work is needed, and the finish you choose. A basic refinish on a small wooden chair costs significantly less than refinishing a full kitchen's worth of cabinetry. Pieces that need extensive repair—replacing missing veneer, fixing structural damage, or removing deep stains—cost more than those that just need stripping and resealing.

The type of finish you select also affects price. A simple stain with one coat of polyurethane costs less than a multi-step process with custom stain matching or specialty finishes. High-traffic pieces like dining tables or kitchen cabinets may benefit from more durable finishes, which can increase the cost. Get a detailed quote from Piccot that breaks down labor, materials, and any repair work so you understand what you are paying for.

When Refinishing Makes Sense Versus Replacement

Refinishing is usually the better choice if the wood structure is sound, the piece has sentimental or quality value, or you like the design but not the current finish. A solid wood dresser or dining table from a quality maker is often worth refinishing, especially if the wood itself is beautiful once the old finish is removed. Heirloom pieces, antiques, or furniture with craftsmanship you cannot easily replace are good candidates.

Replacement might make more sense if the wood is severely damaged, the piece is very large and refinishing would be prohibitively expensive, or you want a completely different style. Particleboard or veneer-over-plywood furniture is sometimes cheaper to replace than refinish, since the veneer may not hold up to stripping. If you are uncertain, ask Piccot whether they think your piece is worth refinishing or if replacement would be a better investment.

Preparing Your Piece and Setting Expectations

Before you drop off or have your piece picked up, clean it thoroughly and remove any hardware like handles, hinges, or drawer pulls if possible—this makes the refinishing faster and cheaper. Let Piccot know about any specific concerns: stains you want removed, areas of damage you have noticed, or finishes you want to avoid. If you have a photo of a finish you like, bring it along so they understand your vision.

Be realistic about what refinishing can achieve. It cannot change the wood type or grain, and it cannot fix structural problems like loose joints or warped wood (though Piccot can repair many of these issues). The final color depends on the wood species and the stain you choose—lighter woods may not achieve very dark stains, and vice versa. Discussing these limits upfront prevents disappointment when the piece is done.

Finding and Contacting Piccot Refinishing

Piccot Refinishing operates in South Carolina and can typically be reached through a phone call or online inquiry to discuss your project. When you contact them, have details ready: the type of piece, its dimensions, the current condition, and what you want the finished look to be. Photos are helpful, especially if the piece is large or you cannot easily transport it.

Ask whether they offer pickup and delivery, since that affects your total cost and convenience. Some pieces are too large to move yourself, and Piccot may include transportation in their quote or refer you to a mover. Clarify their payment terms—whether they require a deposit to start work, when the balance is due, and what happens if you need to cancel or delay the project.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my piece is worth refinishing?

If the wood structure is solid, the piece has good bones, and you like the design, refinishing is usually worth considering. Solid wood furniture, quality antiques, and pieces with sentimental value are good candidates. Particleboard or heavily damaged wood may not be worth the cost. Piccot can assess your piece and give you an honest opinion.

Can Piccot refinish painted wood or veneer?

Yes, they can strip and refinish painted wood to reveal the wood underneath, or refinish veneer if it is in good condition. Veneer that is peeling or damaged may need repair before refinishing, which adds to the cost. Ask them to inspect it first so you know what to expect.

What finish should I choose for a dining table or kitchen cabinets?

High-traffic pieces need durable finishes that resist scratches and moisture. Polyurethane is a common choice for tables and cabinets because it is tough and easy to clean. Discuss your lifestyle and how the piece will be used so Piccot can recommend a finish that will hold up to your needs.

Can they match a stain color I already have?

Many refinishing companies can match existing stains or create custom colors, though this may take extra time and cost more. Bring a sample of the color you want matched, or describe it clearly. They may need to test the stain on a hidden area first to get it right.

What should I do while my piece is being refinished?

Once you drop it off or have it picked up, the work is in Piccot's hands. Stay in touch about the timeline and let them know if anything changes on your end—like if you need it sooner or later than planned. Avoid calling frequently for updates; they will contact you when it is ready for pickup.