In our time, the use of natural wood products is becoming increasingly popular and valuable. Wood is easy to process, fits into any interior design. However, there is one major downside. Without proper treatment, wood is susceptible to the negative effects of moisture and the environment. To minimize the consequences of the influence of negative factors, products must be processed with specialized tools that will help maintain their original appearance and extend their service life. One of the first places is polyurethane varnish for wood.
Classification
Note that these funds are classified according to the composition:
- single component;
- two-component.
One-component varnish is ready to use without additional effort. A two-component polyurethane varnish in its composition contains a base and a special fixer, which must be mixed in strictly prescribed proportions in order to avoid problems with the composition. Otherwise, it is possible to get an increased viscosity or too fasthardening.
Do not forget that polyurethane-based varnish hardens quickly. It cannot be reused. Accordingly, it would be reasonable to prepare the right amount, which can be immediately consumed.
What to consider?
When working with a two-component varnish, it is necessary to use a fur roller. According to the result of operation, varnishes can be divided into glossy and semi-gloss. For additional properties - with and without self-alignment.
Pros of varnish. What are they?
Let's look at the benefits of using polyurethane varnish:
- Elasticity. Under moderate impacts (deformations) does not crack. Since polyurethane does not absorb into the wood, it is much more susceptible to cracking and flaking under high temperature conditions. Polyurethane is a higher quality protective agent. Under normal conditions, it will be much stronger, say, than a varnished finish.
- Good wear resistance. When used on wooden products, it is resistant to various kinds of influences, as well as abrasion. The service life is more than one year in conditions of high loads (for example, parquet in a room).
- Moisture resistance.
- Protection from environmental influences - sun, water.
- Polyurethane is available in an aerosol can, making it easy to use, especially on large projects.
This type of varnish will be an excellent tool for surface treatment. With it, you can even process woodenyacht structures, including the outer side. One caveat - the varnish must be applied on a completely dry surface, as it does not tolerate moisture.
Oil and water based varnish. What are the funds?
The final step in finishing your wood floors will be the application of a parquet polyurethane varnish. As a result, they receive an additional protective layer and an attractive shine. Basically, there are two types of such a product: oil-based (solvent) and water-based (with water).
Water-based varnish. Product description
Water-based polyurethane varnish has gained popularity over the past few decades due to high demand. Since it is safer, environmentally friendly. While both types are still in use today, water-based polyurethane floor varnish has become the most common for several reasons.
Water Based Benefits
Here are some of the benefits of this polish:
- Low VOC exposure. When dealing with a water-based product, you will practically not be exposed to harmful fumes that are unsafe for people and pets. Oil-based products contain petroleum products known to be carcinogenic, such as benzene or ethylene glycol. These substances emit strong fumes for 24 hours (minimum) after application until completely dry. Bad smell inthe room may be present for a long time. Water-based products are a natural alternative. They replace petroleum solvents with vegetable substances. These products are much safer. You can be sure that no one risks their he alth under the influence of VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds).
- Water-based polyurethane varnish will not respond well to rising temperatures. Therefore, it is recommended to use for bookcases, tables, side tables and picture frames. Flammability is another big issue. Oil-based polyurethane is highly flammable. Whereas water based is safer.
- Fast drying time. A water-based coat will dry much faster than oil. Multiple coats can be applied and dried for hours. Everything can be put back in place and the room can be ready the same day without any residual smell. It may take at least 24 hours for the base coat to dry completely and several days for the fumes to completely disappear. By working with a water-based polyurethane varnish according to the manufacturer's instructions, consistent results can always be obtained.
- Durability. Manufacturers have developed a better compound that provides greater abrasion resistance. Improved binders and additives currently make water-based decking the most durable. In order to preserve the original appearance, it is recommended: often clean the dirt and sand, place rugs in areas where you walk most often.
- Original color. After using varnish onwater-based, a transparent coating appears. It maintains the natural color of the wood. From the very beginning you know what color will always be on the floor, because the finish will not change. This is especially true with white or gray painted floors.
- Cheap. You can get a decent result for a lower price.
Oil-based varnish. Important information about the product
What you need to know when using oil-based polish?
- Oil finish immediately changes the color of the wood to a darker one. Over time, when exposed to ultraviolet radiation, the color of the oil-based polyurethane varnish becomes yellowish or amber. It is a matter of preference whether such an outcome is desirable or not.
- Must be used in a well ventilated area. Use a respirator while working and keep the area well ventilated. Apply with a natural bristle brush.
- Polyurethane polymers are highly flammable when in liquid form. They can also be toxic by skin contact or inhalation. The use of face masks and gloves is one way to protect yourself from polyurethane. But it is also important to have good ventilation when using this finish.
- Great look and protection. While there may be a few downsides to a polyurethane finish, you can't dispute the great sheen and preservation it gives to heirlooms and expensive wood furniture.
- Long drying process. With everythe next layer of polyurethane coating needs to wait much longer than with other types. This allows the plastic polymers to harden to take on a completely different appearance.
Conclusion
Now you know what polyurethane varnish is, why it is used. We considered different types of funds and compiled their description. We hope you found this article helpful.
