Wood is unparalleled in terms of elegance and timelessness when it comes to interior decoration and architecture. Whether it’s utilized for furniture, hardwood floors, or front porches, wood possesses a unique ability to inject character into a home. However, like any natural material, wood is susceptible to decay. To ensure long-lasting use, the only solution is to apply wood finishes for the protection of wood surfaces.
In this article, we will discuss the various kinds of wood finishes, their usage, and the reasons behind them. If you’re short on time, here’s a brief overview of the wood finishes.
Wood finish
Wood finish refers to any chemical substance that is used on the surface of wood in order to create a protective layer. The wood finish chosen will determine the level of protection provided, such as preventing the wood from drying, cracking, fading, or rotting.
In addition to providing protection against environmental effects such as UV light, humidity, water damage, and mold, various wood finishes are capable of safeguarding furniture surfaces from daily wear and tear caused by scratches, stains, and other abuses imposed by humans and animals.
Wood finishes, also referred to as wood furniture finishes, have the capability to be utilized on either bare or stained wood. Furthermore, certain finishes have the potential to be applied over existing ones. To fully maximize the advantages of a wood finish, it is imperative to select the appropriate finish for each specific project. Consequently, a thorough comprehension of the various kinds of wood finishes is paramount.
Wood finish types
There are two primary categories of wood finishes:
- Penetrating wood finish
- Surface finishes for wood
The names of the finishes indicate that a penetrating finish enters the wood, whereas surface wood finishes types remain on the surface of the wood. Although some finishes may have a mixture of both qualities, each finish is categorized within one of these two broad groups.
Penetrating wood finish
Penetrating finishes, made primarily from natural oils, have been employed for centuries to safeguard the majority of our existing antique furniture. By being readily absorbed by wood, these finishes effectively shield the furniture from the elements.
The penetrative finishes we use today have undergone extensive research to enhance their ease of application and durability. They are highly desired for high-end furniture due to their natural appearance and tactile qualities. Additionally, they offer the advantage of quick application and are generally environmentally friendly.
Wood surface finish
Wood surface finishes, as previously stated, serve as a protective layer for the wood, resembling a film-forming finish. Generally, wood surface finishing offers extended durability, increased defense against weather and moisture, but demands more expertise for application.
1. Tung oil
Tung oil, also known as Chinese wood oil, is derived from the seed of the tung tree, which is native to China. It is considered one of the oldest finishes globally. Currently, tung trees are also cultivated in South America.
Tung oil is considered environmentally friendly and non-toxic both during and after application. Furthermore, it is an oil that does not cause darkening, meaning that as it seeps into the wood’s grain, it enhances the wood’s innate beauty.
Tung oil is highly respected in the furniture industry because, unlike most other oil-based finishes, it dries clear and does not yellow dramatically over time. Nonetheless, finding pure tung oil in its entirety is difficult due to its high cost and lengthy drying process.
To speed up the drying process, simply explore different methods of expediting the drying of tung oil.
2. Linseed oil
Another penetrating finish that has been used for centuries is linseed oil. This natural oil finish is derived from flaxseed, hence why it is also known as flaxseed oil. Apart from being the best gun stock finish, linseed oil is one of the most versatile ingredients in the construction industry, as it can be used on its own or in other finishes such as varnish, wood stains, and paints.
In order to fully benefit from linseed oil, it must be directly applied onto bare wood or wood that has been finished with other oils. If not, it will not be able to penetrate the surface. It is important to note that linseed oil is highly flammable and papers soaked in it may ignite spontaneously if not disposed of correctly. Additionally, linseed oil has the potential to become rancid.
3. Varnish
The primary types of wood finishes that are commonly used are varnishes, which come in transparent or colored forms. Varnish is composed of oil, solvent, and resin, providing a sturdy, resilient, and shielding coating. It is applicable for both the inside and outside of wooden objects.
Varnishes usually have a glossy appearance, but can be modified to create satin and semi-gloss finishes by including flattening agents. Varnishes provide excellent UV protection, have a slow drying time, and offer enhanced protection when applied over dyes.
4. Wax finish
Wax finishes lack popularity among woodworkers due to their short-term protective properties. Despite the ease of application, achieving the desired effect necessitates multiple applications. Additionally, buffing is required after the application process.
There are liquid, solid, and stick forms of waxes that can be obtained from different sources such as vegetables, minerals, and animals. Wood finish wax can come in different colors and can be either hard or soft. However, even the hardest waxes are still softer than varnishes, providing minimal protection against scratches and wear.
5. Shellac
Shellac, which is a natural wax produced by a bug, is utilized on wood by combining the collected wax with alcohol as a solvent. It comes in different colors and can effectively conceal damage on wooden surfaces. Moreover, it is simple to apply, dries rapidly, and imparts a glossy finish to the wood. However, it is important to note that shellac is susceptible to damage when exposed to water.
6. Wood dye
Wood dyes have the ability to either replicate the current wood color or alter the color of the wood surface. These dyes are colorants that dissolve in solvents such as mineral spirits, alcohol, or water. The functioning of wood dye is comparable to that of fabric dyes.
Wood dyes, which can be applied using a brush, sponge, or spray gun, bring about color changes without concealing the grains. These finishes are available in both water-based and oil-based forms.
7. Wood stain finish
Wood stain finish is utilized to alter or enhance the wood color and the visibility of the grains, improving the overall appearance. Its purpose is to boost the hue of the woodwork and create consistency in situations where there may be discrepancies in the wood’s appearance.
The best use for a wood stain finish is when the stain is darker than the wood’s color. Wood stains come in various colors and the final result relies on the number of coats applied. However, this finish alone does not offer protection to the wood. In order to safeguard the wood, a final coat of wood finish is necessary after applying the wood stain.
8. Lacquer
Lacquer, in comparison to other finishes, is a solvent-based finish that dries quickly and is thin. It has the ability to penetrate the wood, enhance its grain, and nourish it. Application is simple and can be done either by brushing or spraying.
Upon spraying, the lacquer evaporates while simultaneously curing the wood. The wood may become scratched or damaged if the lacquer finish comes into contact with water. The application of lacquer provides the wood with a glossy finish.
9. Water-based finish
Water-based finishes, which include acrylic resin, urethane, and alkyl, have a lower odor compared to oil-based finishes. They provide a clean and transparent finish, as they are thin and quick-drying. Upon application, the liquid clings to the surface while the water gradually evaporates. Water-based finishes impart a natural look to the surface and are simple to maintain.
10. French polish
The French Polishing technique has been employed for wood finishing since the 19th century, making it one of the traditional methods. In this process, a combination of alcohol and shellac is utilized.
To achieve this specific finish, apply a rubbing pad soaked in this oil onto the wooden surface. The application of French polish grants wooden surfaces a highly glossy appearance.
11. Wood preserve
The purpose of using wood preserve is to safeguard the wood against decay and harm caused by insects. It comes in different colors and can have either a matte or semi-gloss appearance. It is applied on the external part of the wooden surface.
12. Danish oil
Next, we arrive at the initial mass-produced penetrating finish known as Danish oil, which was commonly used by Scandinavian furniture makers during the 20th Century. This finish is created through the combination of a natural oil, varnish, and thinner.
Danish oil offers both the wood-penetrating advantages of oil and the added protection and durability of varnish, achieved by using either exterior varnish or polyurethane as well as boiled linseed oil or tung oil.
For optimal results, it is recommended to apply this substance on wood surfaces that are either bare or have been previously oiled, similar to linseed and tung oil.
13. Cedar oil
Cedar oil or cedarwood oil is obtained from the cedarwood tree, as you correctly surmised. This essential oil, which is valuable in woodworking and healthcare, is derived from the needles, leaves, bark, and berries of certain conifer wood species.
Cedar oil, aside from extending the lifespan of wooden furniture, possesses the added benefit of acting as a natural insect deterrent. Furthermore, this oil emits a pleasant, woody scent, which is utilized in the practice of aromatherapy. Although cedar oil is not as widely favored as other items in our inventory for enhancing wood, it is highly esteemed for its medicinal properties.
14. Polyurethane
Polyurethane is a finish that dries very hard and is resistant to water, making it durable.
There are two primary types of polyurethane finishes: oil-based and water-based. Although they perform the same function, each furniture finish possesses distinct pros and cons.
Oil-based polyurethane imparts a warm, glowing appearance to wood while gradually acquiring a yellowish tint. On the other hand, water-based polyurethane dries transparent and maintains its clearness. When correctly applied and maintained, both types can safeguard wooden surfaces for more than ten years.
Polyurethane is widely regarded as the most versatile furniture coating due to its suitability for both indoor and outdoor projects, as well as high-traffic areas. Additionally, it possesses scratch and stain resistance. Its major drawback, however, lies in the difficulty of repairing any damage it sustains. Nevertheless, it requires significant force to harm this wood surface finish.
