The Best Wood Finishes for Your Furniture
When it comes to wood finishes, you want to make sure that you get the best finish for your wood furniture. From stains to waxes, there are a variety of wood finishes available that can help protect and enhance your furniture. Whether you’re looking to preserve the natural beauty of the wood, create a distressed look, or just add shine, there is a wood finish that will suit your needs. In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of wood finishes and their uses, so that you can make an informed decision when selecting the best wood finish for your furniture.
Lacquer
Lacquer is a classic wood finish that is used for both indoor and outdoor wood furniture finishes. It provides a hard and durable surface that can last for many years if properly maintained. There are two main types of lacquer: oil-based and water-based. Oil-based lacquer has superior adhesion properties, but is not as easy to use as water-based lacquer. Water-based lacquer is much easier to apply and clean up, but it's finishes don't hold up quite as well.
Urethane is a type of lacquer that is very popular in wood finishing projects. This type of finish is extremely durable and can be used on both indoor and outdoor projects. Urethane also offers superior protection against scratches, moisture, and other environmental factors. Spar Urethane is an oil-based urethane with a glossy finish that is often used on outdoor furniture finishes, while polycrylic is a water-based urethane with a more matte finish and less yellowing over time. Wood Oil is another common choice for indoor wood furniture finishes. It offers a warm, natural finish that looks great on furniture and other interior wood surfaces.
Varnish
Varnish is a popular wood finish that is used to protect and beautify wood surfaces. It is a thin, transparent coating that is made up of resins and solvents. Varnish can be divided into two main types: Spar Urethane and Wood Oil.
Spar Urethane Varnish is best used for outdoor wood furniture finishes, as it is highly resistant to UV rays and moisture. It provides a glossy finish that is easy to maintain. Wood Oil Varnish is better suited for indoor wood furniture finishes due to its low sheen and natural look. It also gives the wood a softer feel, making it more comfortable to touch.
When applying varnish, make sure to use several thin layers in order to avoid excess buildup on the surface of the wood. Also, take care to follow all safety instructions when using the varnish, as it can be hazardous to your health if not handled properly. With proper care and maintenance, your furniture will look great and last for many years to come.
Oil
Oil is one of the oldest and most popular types of wood finishes. Many types of oil can be used, including tung oil, linseed oil, teak oil, and walnut oil. Wood oil is easy to apply and generally does not require sanding or buffing after application. Oil penetrates deeply into the grain of the wood and creates a durable, waterproof finish that does not turn yellow or darken over time.
Oil is a popular choice for outdoor wood furniture finishes as it is water resistant and also provides UV protection to prevent fading from sun exposure. It is not as durable as other wood finishes and may need to be reapplied more often. However, because it is so easy to apply and maintain, many homeowners choose oil for their outdoor furniture.
Indoor wood furniture can benefit from oil, as well. Unlike some other finishes, oil will not produce a hard plastic-like finish, which can be unnatural-looking on furniture pieces. In addition, oil is non-toxic, so it can safely be used in a home environment.
For extra protection outdoors, you may want to use spar urethane in combination with wood oil. Spar urethane adds an extra layer of protection from the elements and should be applied every few years to maintain its protective qualities.
