Which varnish is best for wood furniture? Choosing wood varnish for exterior and interior use Wood varnish for interior use

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If you need to protect wooden structures located outdoors, then you cannot do without special compounds. At the same time, compositions for outdoor use differ from those used indoors, so it is important to understand their varieties and the main features of each option.

This is what this review will focus on.

Oil-based solutions

This option has several main differences:

The basis is highly purified natural oils, which are thermally treated and give the solution certain properties. The durability of the coating largely depends on the quality of the base, so the cost of high-quality options cannot be low.
The second important component is resins, which can be either natural or synthetic, and in modern products it is the second option that is most often found.
After coating, the surface darkens, the drying time is quite long, so if you do the work yourself, then choose a day with low humidity and air temperatures above 10 degrees.

The main types of such varnishes are the following:

Yacht varnish for exterior woodwork is also called phenolic resin varnish and is used to coat surfaces that will be constantly exposed to moisture. The finished coating is elastic, thanks to which it maintains its integrity during swelling and drying of wood, which are inevitable during the operation of many structures.
Polyurethane varnish is also very popular for a number of positive properties: simple instructions for carrying out the work - you can paint the base with your own hands and ensure high quality work. The composition dries quite quickly and creates a durable and abrasion-resistant surface, which, depending on the type, can be matte or glossy.

Solvent based solutions

Another large group of products, which is also used quite often.

This option has its own differences:

The basis of all varnishes is a solvent, as it evaporates and the composition dries. The drying time is about a day, which is a minus.
The protective layer has high properties: resistance to abrasion and deformation, durability of the coating.
The surface can be washed using detergents, which is also very important if the elements are susceptible to contamination.
In order to change the consistency of the composition or wash off the varnish from your hands and other surfaces, you will need a solvent (its brand is indicated on the packaging with the composition).
After drying, the material acquires a yellowish tint, which is a disadvantage.

Water-based varnishes

Without a doubt, this is the most popular and sought after option today.

This group of compounds has a number of undeniable advantages:

The compositions are made on the basis of an aqueous dispersion with a small addition of solvent. Thanks to this, it is possible to carry out work in rooms where people are located; there is practically no smell during work, as well as fumes that are harmful to health.
The colors of water-based exterior wood varnish can be very diverse, and this is one of the biggest advantages. You can choose any option that will be combined with the rest of the elements on your site, while the solution, while giving the surface the desired shade, does not hide the beauty of the wood structure.

Water-based varnish can be made with the addition of various components; the most popular option is acrylic varnish for exterior woodwork; it has an affordable cost and good performance properties and is used to cover various structures that will not be subject to high loads.
The second popular solution is polyurethane-based varnishes; this component provides excellent abrasion resistance, so such solutions are used to paint surfaces that will be walked on during use.

Advice! There are other options: alkyd, alkyd-urethane, etc. - they all have their own characteristics, which are indicated on the label. Therefore, please read the information provided carefully.

Conclusion

Choosing a high-quality composition is very important, since not only the appearance of wood products, but also their durability depends on it. The video in this article will tell useful information regarding the topic discussed ().

The abundance of goods on the construction market allows you to choose the material that is necessary for any stage of finishing work. Technological progress in the paint and varnish industry has provided new progressive quick-drying compositions for interior work. They do not have a strong odor. Having familiarized yourself with the functional purpose of individual types and their properties, you will be able to make the right choice.

The quick-drying composition has a pungent odor if it is not prepared with water. After applying the varnish to the surface, the thinner evaporates, forming a dense wear-resistant film. Its smell depends on what composition is used for these purposes. All varnishes are divided into transparent, matte and glossy.

Types of varnishes

The advantage of imported compounds is that they have been on the market for a long time and are therefore more popular than domestic ones. But Russian-made varnishes are not inferior to them in quality. They appeared not so long ago, but they also managed to establish themselves as a top quality product that can be used for work in residential premises.

Water based

This varnish is one of the most popular due to its popularity. The surface coated with it becomes resistant to mechanical damage and does not turn yellow over time. The protective film formed by it does not cover the natural shade of the wood, since it is transparent. The odorless, water-based varnish does not emit toxic fumes when dry. When applied to wood, there are no streaks, since the technology of its production is based on the self-leveling formula of the components included in it.

Water-based varnish is applied to wood furniture as an impregnation and stain. They can be white or colored. Water-based varnish is environmentally suitable for interior work in buildings.

Polyurethane base

These varnishes are two-component and are the most common today. This name explains the presence of acrylic and an aliphatic hardener in one composition. This combination enhances the resistance to chemical reactions after it has cured on the surface and speeds up the drying time. They are practical for interior work on exotic wood. Used for furniture, parquet and other wood structures, including slabs made from wood chips by pressing. Three layers of varnish can be applied within one working day.

Acrylic base

These are one-component varnish compositions. They are based on natural acrylic resin. Hardening of these varnishes occurs during the dispersion of its components after the evaporation of the water included in the composition as a base solvent. The formation of an elastic film on the surface coated with it ensures resistance to fading, moisture and detergents. An environmentally friendly product based on acrylic resin is used to coat furniture, wall panels, ceilings, window structures and stair railings.

Alkyd-urethane

The varnish is recommended for coating any wood surfaces. It is diluted with white spirit. It is colorless and transparent. After hardening, it forms a glossy surface. It is recommended to apply each subsequent layer after 24 hours, despite the fact that the curing time is 2 hours. Alkyd-urethane varnish is recommended for finishing work without respirators.

Acrylate waterborne

This varnish is used to cover ceilings and walls made of wood, as well as slabs made from wood chips in residential areas and saunas. The technical parameters of the composition allow it to withstand high temperatures. A transparent varnish coating will not change the color of the stain or tinting applied during the preparatory stage of work.

Domestic manufacturer

Russian wood varnish for interior work, Technocolor, is popular. The company's products are manufactured on European equipment using raw materials from imported suppliers. These are acrylic, polyurethane and other types of water-based wood varnishes. They are intended for covering wooden floors, wood chip boards, staircases, parquet and furniture.

Water-based compositions do not have a specific odor. They are based on natural ingredients that are not harmful to health. Therefore, Technocolor varnishes belong to the category of environmentally friendly products. During their production, the requirements for coating in a children's room and kitchen are taken into account.

Certain types of Technocolor varnishes have the following brands and characteristics:

HTL 20030 Designed for coating wooden structures by dipping into the composition or spraying with a spray gun.

HTL 20 SM Recommended for varnishing furniture made of all types of wood. It is applied by spraying over the surface. It dries quickly and is UV resistant. The varnish does not turn yellow from sunlight. If the composition thickens, it can be diluted with water. It is recommended to spray the first layer on untreated wood with a higher concentration of water. This varnish dries quickly. It takes 4 hours for the finishing layer to harden. The estimated cost per liter of product is 490 rubles.

ATL 200 has an acrylic composition. Its strong resistance to chemical influences after hardening on the surface makes it possible to do wet cleaning with detergents. This varnish is recommended for use in damp areas to cover walls, floors and furniture. It does not turn yellow from exposure to sunlight and time of use. Dries within 4–8 hours. It will take 24 hours for the top coat to dry completely. The price for a capacity of 9 liters is 4200 rubles.

Foreign manufacturers

English Dulux varnishes, Rustins Polyuretahane Varnish and Rustins OD Floor Varnish and Finnish Tikkurila, are of high quality, harden quickly and look impressive when completely dry. The compositions from the manufacturer have a wide range of indoor uses. It is used to cover parquet, any type of wood product, slabs of wood chips or cork, as well as furniture. The composition provides high wear resistance to a flight of stairs with high traffic. The components included in it affect the time of complete curing.

Let's consider individual types of compositions in more detail.

Dulux Celco Aqua 10 Varnish Recommended for walls and furniture. It is water-based and has high elasticity after the top coat has hardened. Its complete drying time is 4 hours. After applying the varnish, the surface becomes resistant to moisture absorption. It can be washed with household chemicals and wiped with an alcohol solution. It does not change its shape due to steam and high temperature. The approximate price for this type of varnish is from 696 rubles. per liter Acrylic compositions can be colored. Light-colored varnishes do not turn yellow over time.

Rustins Polyurethane Varnish with antiseptic – colored polyurethane varnish. It may also be colorless. It is not recommended for use on floors. The antiseptic included in the composition will protect the surface from mold and insects. This type of varnish is resistant to mechanical stress due to its abrasive protective components. Hardening time 4 hours. For topcoat it is 24 hours. For the first layer, it is recommended to use a composition diluted with white spirit in a ratio of 1/8 (8 parts water). When applying colored compounds, you must be prepared that with each subsequent layer the surface will acquire a more saturated shade. The approximate price for a 250 ml container is 480 rubles. This volume is enough for 2 layers with an area of 4 square meters. m.

Rustins OD Floor Varnish– parquet varnish based on acrylic resin. The topcoat dries within 2 hours. Its peculiarity is that it has a milky color in a liquid state. Once hardened, it becomes transparent. The varnish is resistant to alcohol and water. To cover 12 sq. m. surface will require 1 liter of varnish. It is easy to apply with a roller or brush. The approximate price for one liter is 900 rubles.

Conclusion

A correctly selected varnish for indoor work will be effective if its technical characteristics are taken into account. Having decided on the scope of work and the types of material for which the compositions are intended to be used, it is recommended to calculate the area of the surface to be treated and make a preliminary calculation of the required quantity. Each type of varnish has a certain number of layers. The quality of work depends on this.

Wood is a common material that is used to build houses, create interior items, and cover walls and floors. But it requires protection from natural phenomena, otherwise it will quickly crack and fail. Wood varnish will help preserve the decorative properties and texture of wood. It protects the material from moisture and drying, temperature changes, ultraviolet radiation, rotting, fungus, insects and mechanical damage.

The varnish is applied to the surface using a roller, brush, sprayer or compressor. It forms a durable transparent film, which protects the wood from premature wear. You can buy wood varnish in a tin can or plastic bucket in convenient packaging.

There are several classes of varnish: yacht, parquet, furniture and decorative. If you find it difficult to choose, then call Kraski-Market consultants - they will help you choose the best option for wood varnishes for your purposes.

Types of varnishes for treating wooden surfaces

Modern manufacturers produce several types of wood varnishes, differing in chemical composition and base. You can purchase:

Acrylic lacquer. It is made on a water basis, is considered non-flammable and environmentally friendly.
Alkyd varnish. It is made on the basis of organic solvents and alkyd resins, has good moisture resistance and strength.
Water-based varnish. It is a dispersion of emulsifiers and a binder.
Antiseptic varnish. To protect wood from rot, fungus and other biological problems, you should buy antiseptic wood varnishes.
Oil varnish. It is made on the basis of vegetable resins and oils mixed with an organic solvent.
Polyurethane varnish. Considered the most common. Forms a durable and dense transparent film that reliably protects the surface from the natural effects of wear and tear. The price of polyurethane-based wood varnishes is quite affordable.
Heat-resistant varnish. Contains fire retardants and is used to protect the material from open fire and high temperatures.
Epoxy varnish. It has a two-component structure and creates a durable yellowish film on the surface.
Alcohol varnish for wood in Moscow. It is made from natural resin, the solvent is alcohol. They have good strength and are easy to polish.
Alkyd-urea varnish. It is made from amino-formaldehyde and alkyd resins, requires the addition of a hardener, and when dry it forms a strong and wear-resistant film.
Polyester varnish. It is multi-component and allows you to create a thick glossy film to protect against damage and moisture.

Varnishes can also be divided according to the method of application: for external work, for internal work and universal.

Where to buy wood varnishes in Moscow

High-quality and certified varnishes for wooden surfaces, plywood and chipboard can be purchased in the KraskiMarket online store. We sell goods wholesale and retail, and provide targeted delivery throughout Moscow and the Moscow region. Cash and non-cash payments for wood varnish are possible. The price for it at KraskiMarket is quite affordable, since we work directly with the manufacturer.

In order to protect products and various wooden structures that are located outdoors, you need to use wood varnish for outdoor use. All wooden structures and outdoor parts (stairs and steps, roof and its components, deck boards, various gazebos, outdoor furniture and decorative wooden structures) are very susceptible to atmospheric precipitation. Snow, rain, strong winds, as well as direct sunlight and various insects have a destructive effect on any unprotected wooden surfaces, so they must be reliably protected.

Polyurethane varnish for exterior use is a special solution of polyurethane in an organic solvent. No alkyd additives or other impurities are added to the varnish. Polyurethane-based varnish creates a special protective coating that penetrates 5 millimeters into the wood and creates a reliable protective layer with increased wear resistance.

Types of polyurethane varnishes for wood for outdoor use

Polyurethane varnish for wooden surfaces is classified into:

One-component. This type is a ready-made solution. Characterized by increased environmental safety indicators. Completely harmless to people and the environment. There is no specific smell. With prolonged use, the wooden coating does not fade;
Two-component. This type consists of a component that acts as a hardener and the main mass. Before use, they must be mixed and prepared to obtain a ready-made varnish solution for coating wooden surfaces. Forms a fairly strong protective film that prevents the effects of chemical detergents, and also makes the surface very resistant to mechanical stress.

Single-component and two-component polyurethane varnish provides excellent protection for surfaces made of various types of wood. They penetrate deep enough into the wood fibers and provide reliable adhesion.

According to the result they provide, polyurethane varnishes can be further divided into:

Glossy. The treated surface becomes shiny;
Semi-matte. The treated surface is darker, there is no shine.

What is the difference between polyurethane varnish for exterior use and polyurethane varnish for interior use?

The main purpose of varnish for interior work is to create a decorative look for wooden surfaces. A tree located indoors is exposed to destructive factors much less than a tree outside. A quick-drying wood varnish for exterior use has more protective qualities. It has an increased degree of impregnation and creates a more wear-resistant protective layer that protects wood products from both natural and mechanical influences.

Methods for treating surfaces with polyurethane varnish for exterior use

When treating surfaces with polyurethane varnish, you must follow all the recommendations indicated in the relevant instructions. This is especially true for two-component varnish. The components must be mixed, strictly observing the proportions, otherwise the varnish will dry out very quickly or, on the contrary, will be very liquid. Two-component varnish hardens quickly, so you need to calculate the required amount of varnish and do not prepare it in large volumes.

Before applying varnish, you must carefully prepare the surface. It should be even, smooth and clean. Therefore, the first thing we do is clean and polish it. The surface must be completely dry. Applying varnish to a damp surface is strictly prohibited. After preparing the surface, you can apply varnish. You can use a brush made of synthetic material or a mohair roller. It is recommended to apply varnish in the direction of the wood grain, and not vice versa. The optimal ambient temperature when applying varnish should be between 18-24 degrees. It is recommended to apply in 3 layers. After each applied layer, you need to wait a period of time so that the varnish layer has time to dry. The last layer usually takes about 7-8 hours to dry. In cloudy weather with low temperatures, the drying period will increase.

The main advantages of ZAR colorless polyurethane varnish for exterior use

Colorless polyurethane varnish ZAR for exterior use is a high-tech formula that allows you to create a reliable protective layer. This varnish is quick-drying. Under optimal ambient temperature conditions, each layer of varnish dries in 2 hours. After coating with this varnish, the surface becomes quite rigid and resistant to any kind of mechanical stress, especially friction. Excellent protection against exposure to sunlight and various atmospheric phenomena. ZAR polyurethane varnish contains antioxidants that prevent the destruction of wood from the inside. You can visit our specialized online store at very competitive prices.

March 13, 2018
Specialization: philological education. Work experience as a builder - 20 years. Of these, for the last 15 years he led a team as a foreman. I know everything about construction - from design and zero cycle to interior design. Hobbies: Vocals, psychology, quail breeding.

Greetings, my dear readers!

It is highly undesirable to leave enclosing structures, foundations and cladding of a wooden building unprotected. Especially if these are external elements of the building. Wood varnish for outdoor use can be used as such protection. In addition, it will emphasize the texture of the natural material, making it more beautiful and attractive.

In order for varnish for external woodwork to fully meet expectations, it must be chosen wisely. Let me tell you how to do this.

What properties should a varnish have for exterior work?

The general property of paints and varnishes is that they create a protective film on the base. It prevents the rotting of wood and its destruction due to various loads.

At the same time, compositions for external use must meet certain requirements that analogues for internal use do not necessarily have to meet.

Coating characteristics

Qualities required for varnish used for exterior woodwork:

Frost resistance. In the harsh climate of Russia, in winter, varnished wood is exposed to extremely low temperatures. They must not affect the functionality of the coating.

For exterior work, you should choose a frost-resistant wood varnish. It will not crack or lose strength at low temperatures.

Moisture resistance. Water is one of the main enemies of construction wood. Based on this, the varnish should not be afraid of moisture and reliably protect the base from it.

Wear resistance. To treat vertical bases (facade, wooden fence, gates, doors, etc.), you can choose a varnish with a medium level of strength.

Terrace floors, steps, garden furniture and other complex surfaces are subject to intense mechanical stress. For them, it is necessary to select façade varnish with increased wear resistance.

UV resistance. The sun's rays of this spectrum have a destructive effect on many coatings. Under their influence, the varnish layer quickly wears out, loses strength and begins to peel. To prevent this from happening, additives are added to the paint and varnish material used for external work. They increase its resistance to ultraviolet radiation.

Fire safety. Varnish on wood, which is a flammable material, should neutralize this property.

Gloss of paint material

An important quality of varnish when choosing it is the level of gloss. It depends on the degree of brightness of the light flux reflected from the surface.

According to the degree of gloss, there are such varnishes for wooden surfaces::

high-gloss (reflect more than 90% of sunlight);
glossy (returns 80–90% of light);
semi-glossy (reflect 40–50% of the sun's rays).
semi-matte (give back 10–15% of light).

matte (reflect less than 10% of sunlight).

Manufacturers now also produce tinting varnish compositions. These tinted coatings can change the colors of wood.

Types of varnishes for wood

Many paint finishes can be used on wood. However, not all of them are suitable for outdoor work.

Compositions most suitable for outdoor use

Photo	Description
	Type 1. Oil composition This varnish contains natural or artificial resins. The second main component of the material is purified and heat-treated organic oils. It is advisable to work with this composition at low air humidity and temperatures above +10 °C. Based on the percentage of oil in them, coatings are divided into the following grades: skinny; bold; fatty. Only the last category is suitable for external work. The ratio of oil and resin in fatty varnish is 2:1. Due to this, such compositions tolerate atmospheric influences well. Disadvantage of oil-based varnishes- long drying period. It is 24–48 hours. When using an oil finish, the wood may change color to a darker tone. Sometimes this difference turns out to be significant.
	Type 2. Alkyd-urethane coating Its second name is yacht varnish. Such paints and varnishes are used for processing wood, which constantly interacts with water. After drying, the yacht composition creates a plastic film that remains sealed even with significant deformations of the base. The technology for coating wood with alkyd-urethane varnish involves preliminary priming. The applied film must be dense and solid. Yacht varnish has a high level of wear resistance. It dries very quickly, in just 3-4 hours.
	Type 3. Polyurethane varnish This is the most popular type of paint and varnish for wood processing. Applying it is not difficult, since the material is opaque, adheres well and is colorless. The advantages of this varnish also include: durability; quick drying (4–10 hours); In addition, polyurethane compounds reliably protect substrates from ultraviolet radiation, mechanical stress and abrasion.
	Type 4. Alkyd coating Its components are alkyd resin and organic solvents. They give the varnish film reliability, durability and weather resistance. The coating is not afraid of aggressive chemical environments. For wood, in most cases, alkyd varnish of the GF-166 or GF-170 brands is used. Disadvantages of the material: long drying period, about one day; alkyd resins color wood yellowish.
	Type 5. Acrylic composition It is an aqueous dispersion of polymer resins. Thanks to this, the varnish has virtually no odor and does not release hazardous substances into the environment. Manufacturers produce acrylic varnishes with a diverse color palette. Such translucent tinted coatings leave the natural grain and texture of the wood untouched. Antiseptics are often added to water-based formulations. Thanks to this, they protect the wood from the effects of harmful microorganisms. Acrylic compositions are divided into two subtypes: the one-component material contains only this polymer; in the two-component analogue, polyurethane is added to it. The second variety is more preferable. It has increased resistance to weathering.

Conclusion

Varnish for wooden surfaces protects them from atmospheric, shock and mechanical influences. In addition, the coating makes the base more aesthetically pleasing. For exterior woodwork, only a few types of varnish can be used. They were discussed in this article.

If you have any questions, ask them in the comments. Therefore, I say goodbye and success to you in your endeavors.