Can Rub And Buff Be Removed?

What is Rub and Buff?

Rub and Buff is a type of wax-based paste used to antique, restore, or add an aged patina to metal, wood, plastic, resin, and other surfaces. It comes in a variety of metallic colors like gold, silver, copper, bronze, pewter, and more. Rub and Buff is applied by hand, allowed to slightly dry, and then buffed out with a soft cloth to create a convincing aged or distressed finish.

Some common uses for Rub and Buff include:

• Antiquing metal jewelry, hardware, light fixtures, and other accessories
• Distressing and staining wood surfaces like furniture, décor, frames, and more
• Weathering and aging miniatures, models, and other craft pieces made of resin or plastic
• Restoring old metallic surfaces to hide scratches or wear

Popular brands of rub and buff include Modern Options and Marsh Ink. It is sold online and in craft and hardware stores. Key types include regular Rub and Buff, Rub and Buff Clears for use over paint, and Rub and Buff Metallic Wax Paste for a smoother finish.

How Rub and Buff is Applied

Rub and Buff is typically applied by hand using your fingers or a soft cloth (Thrifty Decor Chick). To apply, put a small amount on your finger or cloth and rub it directly onto the surface in a circular motion (Driven by Decor). The heat from your hands helps blend the product into the surface.

For larger surface areas, a brush can be used to stipple and blend the Rub and Buff. Foam brushes or soft cloth brushes work well for controlled application. Avoid using too much pressure when brushing to prevent scratching the surface.

Rub and Buff is commonly used on metal, wood, resin, and plastic surfaces. On metal, it gives an antiqued or weathered look by filling in imperfections. For wood, it adds accent details and highlights the natural grain. On resin and plastics, it creates an opaque, metallic finish for decorative elements.

Why Remove Rub and Buff?

There are a few key reasons you may need to remove Rub and Buff from a surface:

You applied too much and want to remove the excess. Rub and Buff can look gloopy if applied too thickly, so you may want to remove some to get a thinner, more even finish.

You want to change the color. If you decide you don’t like the color after application, you’ll need to remove it to apply a new color.

The color has faded or worn away. Over time, the colored waxes and pigments in Rub and Buff can fade or wear down. Removal may be necessary before reapplication.

You’re refinishing or repurposing the surface. If you plan to refinish, paint, or repurpose the surface, removing the Rub and Buff first will help the new finish adhere properly.

You’re selling an item. Buyers often prefer an unfinished surface so they can apply their own Rub and Buff or other finish.

There is build up in crevices. Rub and Buff can settle into cracks and crevices, so you may need to remove the buildup for a smoother finish.

Challenges of Removing Rub and Buff

Rub and buff can be quite difficult to remove once it has been applied and allowed to cure. This is because it contains waxes, clays, and polymers that create a strong bond with many common surfaces like metal, wood, plastics, and resins.

The waxy and clay-like nature of rub and buff means that it penetrates into porous surfaces like wood and binds tightly. On smooth, non-porous surfaces like metal and plastic, the polymers help it adhere tightly. This makes rub and buff resistant to chipping or peeling off easily.

As a result, removing rub and buff often requires aggressive cleaning methods involving solvents or abrasives. Attempting removal can risk damaging the underlying surface if you are not careful. Using too harsh of chemicals or scrubbing too vigorously can etch, discolor, or scratch the material underneath the rub and buff coating.

It is especially challenging if the rub and buff has been allowed to fully cure over 24-48 hours. At that point, the bond has hardened considerably. Old or multiple layers of rub and buff will have seeped deeper into porous surfaces, making complete removal near impossible without harming the integrity of the substrate.

Thus it is best to tackle rub and buff removal immediately before curing is complete. However, even then it requires the proper techniques and care to avoid permanent damage. Understanding the vulnerabilities of each surface material is key when attempting to remove cured rub and buff coatings.

## Removing from Metal Surfaces

Rub ‘n Buff can be quite stubborn when applied to metal surfaces, as it is designed to adhere well to metals. However, there are some effective solutions for removing it.

Mild abrasives like baking soda or Bar Keeper’s Friend can help lift Rub ‘n Buff off metal. Make a paste with a bit of water, apply it to the metal, let it sit for 5-10 minutes, then scrub with a soft cloth or sponge. The baking soda or abrasives will gently scour the metal without damaging it. Repeated applications may be needed for stubborn spots.

For smoother metals, try a polishing compound like a jeweler’s rouge. Use a buffing wheel or soft cloth to work the compound into the metal and it will slowly cut through the Rub ‘n Buff layer. Go slowly to avoid removing too much of the underlying finish.

If abrasives don’t work, try carefully sanding the Rub ‘n Buff off with fine grit sandpaper (400+ grit). Sand lightly and avoid digging into the metal. Be prepared to re-polish the sanded area afterwards. Test on an inconspicuous spot first.

With patience and the right mild abrasive cleaner, metal surfaces can be restored without damage after removing Rub ‘n Buff. Harsher chemicals or scrubbing should be avoided to prevent harming the underlying finish.

Removing from Wood Surfaces

Rub n Buff can be challenging to remove from wood surfaces because it seeps into the grain. Sanding may be required in addition to chemical strippers. When using chemical strippers, opt for one made specifically for use on wood to avoid damage. Some options include:

Citristrip – This water-based stripper is safe for use on wood, metal, glass and more. Allow it to sit for 30 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing away.

Klean-Strip Premium Stripper – A fast-acting stripper that clings to vertical surfaces. Use in a well-ventilated area and allow 15-30 minutes before removal.

After the stripper has done its work, sanding may be necessary to fully remove Rub n Buff from wood grain. Start with 220 grit sandpaper and work up to 320 or 400 grit for a smooth finish. Avoid over-sanding which can damage the wood. Once sanded, apply a sealant before refinishing the wood with stain, paint or clear coat.

Removing from Plastic/Resin

When removing rub and buff from plastic or resin surfaces, it’s important to avoid damaging the material. Rub and buff bonds well to plastics, so solvents are often needed to break down the wax and clay components.

Acetone or nail polish remover containing acetone can dissolve rub and buff on plastic. According to one source, “Acetone will take it right off of plastic without hurting the plastic.” (Source)

Rubbing alcohol can also help remove rub and buff from plastic. Apply a small amount to a cotton pad or soft cloth, then gently rub the area to dissolve the finish. Check regularly to avoid damaging the plastic.

When using solvents, it’s critical to spot test first on an inconspicuous area. Use the minimum amount needed to avoid melting, discoloring or otherwise damaging the plastic surface. Work slowly and cautiously until the rub and buff is fully removed.

Tips for Safe Removal

When removing Rub and Buff, it’s important to take proper safety precautions. According to this safety tip from Reddit [1], you should ensure you have proper ventilation when removing Rub and Buff, as some solvents can release fumes. Working in a well-ventilated area or wearing a respirator is recommended.

You should also take care to protect your skin and eyes, as recommended by this forum post [2]. Wear gloves to protect your hands and safety goggles to shield your eyes when scrubbing. Be sure to thoroughly wash your hands after finishing.

It’s also wise to test any removal method in a small, inconspicuous area first according to experts at Crazy Wonderful [3]. This allows you to ensure the solvent or abrasive won’t damage the underlying surface. Start gently and increase scrubbing pressure slowly as needed.

Taking proper safety precautions will allow you to effectively remove Rub and Buff while avoiding potential health hazards or damage to the surface underneath.

When to Call a Professional

Some situations involving rub and buff removal are better left to professional detailers and auto body specialists. If the rub and buff has been on the surface for many years, has been applied in thick layers, or has been clear coated over, it can be extremely stubborn to remove.

Professionals have access to chemical paint strippers and professional-grade buffing and polishing equipment that can safely remove old, baked-on rub and buff without damaging the underlying finish. They also have experience working with delicate antique and custom finishes.

While DIY removal is possible in many cases, the cost of hiring a professional may be worth it to avoid spending hours laboring over the removal process or making the situation worse with an inexperienced hand. Professionals can complete the job much more efficiently.

That said, relatively fresh rub and buff that has only been on the surface briefly can often be removed carefully at home with some elbow grease and the right solvents and techniques. Consider your specific situation and whether professional help is advised.

Maintaining the Surface After Removal

Once the Rub n’ Buff has been removed from the surface, it is important to take steps to restore and protect the surface.

For porous surfaces like wood, it is recommended to reseal or refinish the area after Rub n’ Buff removal. According to one crafter, “after using acetone to remove Rub n’ Buff from a wooden surface, I resealed it with polyurethane to restore the finish” (Source). Resealing will help prevent staining and damage.

For metal surfaces, a clear coat spray paint or acrylic sealer can be applied for protection after removal. One tip is to “use a spray clear coat appropriate for the metal surface to seal it after removing the Rub n’ Buff” (Source).

Ongoing care is also important after Rub n’ Buff removal. Avoid using harsh abrasives, scouring pads, or chemicals on the surface going forward, as these can damage the finish. Gentle cleaning with a soft cloth is best. Check the surface sealant periodically and reapply as needed.