В наше время использование изделий из натуральных Wood species are becoming increasingly popular and valuable. Wood is easy to process, fits into any version of the interior. However, there is only one significant disadvantage. Without proper processing, wood is exposed to the negative effects of moisture and the environment. In order to minimize the consequences of the influence of negative factors, the products must be subjected to treatment with specialized means that will help preserve the original appearance and prolong the service life. On 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.
Single component lacquer ready to use withoutextra effort. The two-component polyurethane varnish contains in its composition a base and a special fixative that must be mixed in strictly defined proportions in order to avoid problems with the composition. Otherwise, it is possible to obtain increased viscosity or too fast solidification.
Do not forget that the polyurethane-based varnish quickly hardens. You cannot reuse it. Accordingly, it will be reasonable to prepare the right amount, which can immediately be consumed.
What do you need to consider?
When working with two-component varnish, it is necessaryuse a fur roller. According to the result of operation, varnishes can be divided into glossy and semi-gloss. By additional properties - with and without self-leveling.
The advantages of varnish. What are they like?
Let's look at the advantages of using polyurethane varnish:
- Elasticity.With moderate impacts (deformations) it does not crack. Since polyurethane is not absorbed into wood, it is much more susceptible to cracking and peeling at high temperatures. Polyurethane is a better protective agent. Under normal conditions, it will be much stronger, for example, than a finish made with varnish.
- Good durability.When used on wooden products, it is resistant to various influences, as well as abrasion. The service life is not one year under high loads (for example, parquet in the room).
- Moisture resistance.
- Protection from environmental influences - sun, water.
- You can purchase polyurethane in an aerosol can, which simplifies its use, especially in large projects.
This type of varnish will be an excellent tool forsurface treatment. With its help, you can even process wooden structures of yachts, including the outer side. One caveat - the varnish must be applied to an absolutely dry surface, as it does not tolerate moisture.
Oil and water based varnish. What are the means?
The last step in decorating your wood floorswill be applying parquet polyurethane varnish. As a result, they get an additional protective layer and attractive shine. Basically, there are two types of such a tool: oil-based (solvent) and water-based (with water).
Water based varnish. Product Description
Water-based polyurethane varnishpopularity over the past few decades due to high demand. Since it is safer, more environmentally friendly. Although both types are still used 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 varnish:
- Low exposure to volatile organiccompounds. 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 that are known to be carcinogens, such as benzene or ethylene glycol. These substances release strong fumes within 24 hours (minimum) after application until completely dry. Unpleasant odors in the room may be present for a long time. A natural alternative is water-based products. They replaced petroleum solvents with herbal substances. These products are much safer. You can be calm that no one risks their health under the influence of VOCs (volatile organic compounds).
- Water-based polyurethane varnish will notrespond well to fever. Therefore, it is recommended to use for bookcases, tables, side tables and picture frames. Flammability is another big problem. Oil-based polyurethane flammable. Whereas water-based is safer.
- Fast drying time.A water-based layer dries much faster than oil. Several layers can be applied and dried over several hours. Everything can be returned to its place, and the room can be ready on the same day, without any residual smell. Drying of the base coat can take at least 24 hours, before it dries completely, and several days for the vapors to completely disappear. When working with aqueous polyurethane varnish in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, consistent results can always be obtained.
- Durability.Manufacturers have developed a better composition that provides greater abrasion resistance. Improved binders and additives currently make water-based flooring the most durable. In order to preserve the original appearance, they recommend: often clean the dirt and sand, place mats in areas where you often walk.
- The original color.After using water-based varnish, a transparent coating appears. It maintains the natural color of the tree. From the very beginning, you know what color will always be on the floor, because the finish will not change. This is especially true in the presence of white or gray painted floors.
- Cheapness. You can get a decent result at a lower price.
Oil based varnish. Important Tool Information
What you need to know when using oil-based varnish?
- The oil finish immediately changes the color of the wood todarker. Over time, when exposed to ultraviolet radiation, the color of the oil-based polyurethane varnish acquires a yellowish or amber hue. It is a matter of preference whether such a result is desired or not.
- Must be used in a well-ventilated area. Use a respirator during operation and ventilate the area well. Apply with a natural bristle brush.
- Polyurethane polymers are very flammable whenthey are in liquid form. They can also be toxic if swallowed or inhaled. Using 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 view and protection.Although there may be several drawbacks to the polyurethane finish, you cannot dispute the great sheen and safety that it gives to family heirlooms and expensive wooden furniture.
- Длительный процесс сушки.With each subsequent layer of polyurethane coating, you need to wait much longer than with other types. This allows plastic polymers to harden in order to take on a completely different look.
Conclusion
Now you know what polyurethane varnish is, why it is used. We examined different types of funds and made a description of them. We hope you find this article helpful.
