silverfish Posted October 10, 2010 Share Posted October 10, 2010 I have a couple of old barrels and while recently checking them out, noticed that when looking through the bung hole, I could see "space" between the staves opposite the hole.My wife has been thinking about "appropriating" one for use as a rain barrel and I wondered if cutting out the head and filling with water would "swell" the staves to their original (or close to) condition.Is it possible to "restore" the barrels to good condition i.e. water tight capable or are they pretty much "ruined" and suitable for display purposes only? Link to post Share on other sites
Lost Pollito Posted October 10, 2010 Share Posted October 10, 2010 It is possible. Put the staves in place, and fill with water. Fill, and refill. It sucks, but it can be done.:grin: Link to post Share on other sites
silverfish Posted October 10, 2010 Author Share Posted October 10, 2010 All the staves are in place - there is just minor "space" between some.I was hoping it would be possible to "restore" but figured it may take time.Thanks for confirming. Guess it's time to move one outside... Link to post Share on other sites
MarkEdwards Posted October 10, 2010 Share Posted October 10, 2010 Can the restoration process be speeded up by submerging the barrel? Link to post Share on other sites
silverfish Posted October 10, 2010 Author Share Posted October 10, 2010 I thought that hosing down the outside might help but my barrels have shellac/varnish on them. On an unfinished barrel soaking the outside as well as filling with water may work faster. Link to post Share on other sites
Recommended Posts