What is the Difference between White Water Marks and Dark Water Rings?

An example of dark water rings, which cannot be restored by applying any surface or finish treatment. Click to enlarge

Dark water rings are usually seen where moisture is left to sit on a finished surface, such as where a planter has been overfilled.

Where white water marks indicate moisture trapped in or on the finish (the thin, clear layer), dark water rings indicate that the color of the wood has been affected. In case of severe issues like this (dark water marks, sun bleaching, etc.), there is no surface treatment that will restore the damage.

An example of a white water mark, which can be removed with Wood Elixir. Click to enlarge

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