Wood Stuck to Wood

[johnnielee8]

I have an unusual situation. Until yesterday, I had a small wood decorative tray stuck to the top of my wood mantel fireplace. I was able to separate the two but a layer of the bottom of the tray stayed stuck to the mantel. What can I use to remove it without damaging the finish on the mantel?

[chfite]

You might try a paper towel soaked in mineral spirits. Lay it on the material stuck to the mantel. It may dissolve whatever caused the sticking. Then you might be able to scrape it off gently with the edge of a credit card. In any event, it won't damage anything; and will evaporate without leaving a residue.

You might try water in the same manner, but if it soaks through any faults in the finish on the mantel, it could cause the finish to lift.

In the gotta be careful department, you might try wafting the steam from a steam iron held an inch or two above the residue and work on it with the edge of a credit card to ease the residue off.

In any event, don't be rushed.