ᐅ What to do if Malm lacquer is damaged?

Created on: 27 Mar 2022 07:54
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Usfriederi
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Usfriederi
27 Mar 2022 07:54
I have noticed some small to medium damages on my Malm lacquer, including both scratches and chipped areas. Since this is a rather delicate surface, I would like to know: What are the gentlest yet effective methods to repair or at least visually improve damaged Malm lacquer? I am particularly interested in approaches that are suitable for beginners but still provide lasting, satisfactory results. Are there specific products or techniques you would recommend? It would also be helpful to know if certain levels of damage require professional restoration.
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LUISABEL
27 Mar 2022 08:37
The first step in repairing damaged Malm lacquer is to assess the extent of the damage. Minor scratches can usually be removed using fine-grit sandpaper (e.g., grit 2000) followed by polishing. Areas where the lacquer has completely chipped off require a filler or a special repair compound to smooth the surface before repainting. For repainting, thin-drying touch-up pens or spray paints that precisely match the Malm lacquer color are suitable. For larger damages, professional painting with multiple layers of coating usually provides better durability. It is important to protect the repaired area from moisture to prevent further damage. For beginners, I recommend testing the repair on an inconspicuous area first, since Malm lacquer is sensitive.
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giabau
27 Mar 2022 09:19
I would like to offer a brief step-by-step tutorial here that is especially helpful for people who want to repair matte paint for the first time:

1. Cleaning: Thoroughly clean the affected area to remove dust and grease.
2. Sanding: Carefully bevel the edges of the damage using fine sandpaper (at least grit 1500 to 2000).
3. Filling: If the paint has chipped off, apply a fine wood or paint filler, smooth it out, and let it dry.
4. Intermediate sanding: After the filler has dried, sand very finely again.
5. Painting: Apply thin layers with a color-matched touch-up pen or mini roller, allowing each layer to dry thoroughly.
6. Polishing: After the paint layers have fully cured, gently polish with polishing paste.

Common mistakes include sanding too aggressively, applying paint too thickly, or skipping drying times between layers. That’s why it’s better to build up thin layers!
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Usfriederi
27 Mar 2022 10:48
LUISABEL schrieb:
Thin-layer drying touch-up pens or spray paints are suitable for repainting.

Thank you for the suggestion. Are there any specific recommendations for brands or product types that have proven particularly effective with Malm lacquer? The materials I have researched so far often mention general automotive touch-up pens as an option, which is not always ideal for furniture.

Also, I wonder: How well do these touch-up pens hold up in everyday use when the repaired area is regularly exposed to wear, such as from touching or minor impacts? Is this a long-term satisfactory solution or merely a cosmetic quick fix?
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TEBILO
27 Mar 2022 12:05
Malm lacquer usually refers to a UV-curing acrylic or polyurethane finish that is specifically designed for furniture surfaces. Therefore, it makes sense to use products based on this type of coating.

For minor damage, a "blending pen" from some furniture manufacturers or touch-up pens from furniture lacquer ranges by companies such as "Borma Wachs" or "Clou" are suitable. These allow for a fairly uniform surface without visible transitions thanks to their thin, liquid base.

Application: several thin layers are applied, each with sufficient drying time in between (at least 2 hours). After curing, the surface is mechanically durable and resistant to light wear. However, these repairs are more vulnerable to deep scratches compared to a full-surface coating.

For long-lasting heavy use, professional refinishing or a complete replacement of the damaged parts is recommended.
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Hector
28 Mar 2022 06:46
TEBILO schrieb:
For application: Apply several thin layers, allowing sufficient drying time between each

The point about drying time is crucial and often underestimated. I frequently see users applying the paint layers too quickly, which leads to color inconsistencies or uneven transitions.

Also, I’m wondering: Does anyone have experience with corrective work after improper application, such as sanding or repairing paint that was applied too thickly? Could these errors be fixed by sanding or even using solvents without noticeably damaging the surface?