Previous recolouring can affect both cleaning and the adhesion of a new finish. Inspect the grain, stitching, hardware edges and wear patterns before choosing another treatment.
Signs to examine
- Colour covering stitching or hardware edges.
- Unnatural build-up in grain recesses.
- Flaking cracks at flex points or a differently coloured layer showing underneath.
- Unusually uniform sheen or feel across different parts.
Decide what to do next
- Photograph suspect areas from several angles.
- Restrict any light-touch test to an inconspicuous position.
- Record evidence of earlier treatment on the intake form.
- Then decide whether to clean, repair locally or stop.
When to stop
An unknown repair layer may dissolve in cleaner or be incompatible with new products. Do not use a strong solvent to find out what it is.