Wood finishes protect and enhance the appearance of wooden surfaces. Options range from stains and paints to varnishes and oils, each offering different levels of durability, sheen, and colour.
They serve as protection and polish to wood surfaces, making them appear appealing, richer, and deeper. It also saves the wood from contamination.
When selecting a wood finish, one has to be knowledgeable on the topic “Wood Finishing” by knowing the finishing products that make the job shine or have a matte appearance.
One must consider the application of the job and its durability. These are some factors to consider before choosing wood finishing products.
Well, in this reading, we’ll explore what wood finishes are, their types, and how to choose the right one.
Let’s begin!
Types of Wood Finishes
The following represent the different types of wood finishes and wood finishing products used on wood materials:
Wax:
Wax has an extreme feature as it’s easy to use and apply. It is shiny, but it provides minimal protection. These types of wood finishes are easy to remove, making it a fairly noncommittal finish selection.
Shellac:
Shellac is a clear finish product which provides a substrate with moderate water protection and effective protection against solvents. Some shellac types have a yellowish tint. The coating is durable, which does not require reapplication.
Shellacs are compatible with other coatings and act as an effective base layer. Although the application technique can be complicated, wax and shellac can be completely cleaned using alcohol.
Nitrocellulose Lacquer:
The lacquer creates a hard-glossy finish to a substrate. It also provides good protection and has strong durability. The finish contains several toxic solvents in its mixture. It is applied on wood surfaces by spraying, which releases some toxins into the air.
This is why the sprayer shoulder covers his/her nose to prevent inhaling the toxic fumes. The brush is used as an alternative method of applying the finishes. It can also be cleaned off like wax and shellac.
Water-Based Polyurethane:
The water-based polyurethane produces a clear coating without the plastic look. The wood finish works well on products that are exposed to UV and are safer to use than the varnish. The coating dries fast; that is why it is suitably applied with spraying application and not a brush.
The curing occurs the same way as vanish and can also be removed with a paint remover.
Oil wood finishes:
The oil finishes, such as linseed and Tung oil, which are used to accentuate the wood’s grain. They provide the wood with a warm glow and increase in durability when layered. However, they do not provide much protection.
Their application is quite easy, but the drying takes 12 hours or longer. Oil-based finishes can be removed by sanding the substrate because the wood absorbs the oil.
Conversion Varnish:
The conversion types of finishes are just like lacquer, as they both result in hard, glossy finishes and are durable. Their application methods are also similar, and both cases require protection against toxins.
The conversion varnish is applied in shops that use specialised spraying equipment. The coating can resist an array of substances, providing strong substrate protection.
Polyurethane Varnish:
This varnish delivers a clear coating to wood surfaces. It provides strong protection when multiple layers can give a substrate a plastic-type of finish. The coating is relatively safe due to its solvent being petroleum-based.
The coating is difficult to apply and requires a 30-day curing period. Paint removers work effectively on removing the coating, and the coating is durable after the curing period.
Related: 33 Types of wood and their uses
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Wood Finish
Durability and Resistances:
- Wood finishes protect woodworking projects by providing a physical layer to prevent damage from scratches, chemical abrasions, and solvents.
- UV and moisture-resistant wood finishes are recommended for outdoor projects.
Ease of Use:
- Consider the application method, such as brush, cloth, or sprayer.
- Experienced users may find sprayers difficult on high-quality projects.
Application Method:
- Different wood finishes require different application methods.
- Assess your skills and choose the method that suits your needs.
Appearance:
- The final appearance of the wood can vary depending on the finish type.
- Water-based finishes maintain the natural look of wood, while paint or wood stain obscure the grain.
- Varnishes and oils give the wood a natural appearance, while shellac and lacquers give it a deep, rich appearance.
Drying Time:
- Ensure the wood finish has enough time to dry and cure.
Choosing a Wood Finish:
- Varnishes protect against wear and tear, UV radiation, and water.
- Paint and stain offer colour options for both indoor and outdoor projects.
- Oils like tung oil, linseed oil, and Danish oil enhance the existing grain pattern of the wood.
FAQs
What are 3 wood finishes?
Varnishes and oils offer a natural-looking wood finish. Varnish, shellac, and lacquer are not easy to apply, but they do offer a deep and rich look. They will also deepen and darken over time. Varnishes are the best choice for high-gloss surfaces.
What is the most durable finish for wood?
If you want to prevent damage to fine furniture, cabinets, or hardwood floors, oil-based polyurethane is the most durable wood finish available. This product is also water-resistant and UV-resistant.
What is the easiest wood finish to use?
Wood wax is generally considered the easiest type of finish to apply. You simply wipe it on and buff it off. The only caveat is to apply it very sparingly just a dab at a time. After letting the wax dry for 10 to 15 minutes, simply buff it with a clean cloth.
What are standard wood finishes?
Tung Oil is a natural oil extracted from the seeds of the tung tree. …
Danish Oil is a blend of oils and varnish, Danish oil offers both protection and a naturally shiny appearance.
Is it better to oil or wax wood?
Both oil and wax resist water and provide protection. The difference is that oil penetrates the surface, offering deeper resistance to damage and enhancing the beauty of the wood. Oil also protects from heat and UV radiation more than wax.
Choose wax to preserve the current look of the wood, and oil for deeper protection and the beauty of a flat, satin, or glossy finish.