Varnish is probably the simplest and at the same time the most difficult material of all paint and varnish products. For its competitiveness, both objective and subjective parameters are equally important. Even if the manufacturer managed to achieve high performance in terms of its strength, durability, flowability, and so on, but the aesthetic properties are low, then this product is doomed.
In the early 90s, a good range of European-made acrylic water-dispersion varnishes and their various varieties appeared on the Russian market: impregnations, glazing varnishes, tinted varnishes, etc..
The advantages of acrylic water-dispersion varnishes over alkyd ones include: ease of use, fire safety, durability, environmental friendliness, hygiene, in general, the picture is similar to the comparative analysis of acrylic and alkyd paints. All this has already been covered in previous articles..
Let us dwell on just one specific property related to the transparency of varnishes. The fact is that the alkyd film is not transparent to the UV spectrum. Therefore, taking a blow, it is gradually destructed and ultimately destroyed. Acrylic film is transparent to UV rays and therefore their effect on it is minimal, which has a positive effect on the durability and performance of acrylic varnishes.
These materials quickly established themselves as very good but expensive products. After August 98, they became completely inaccessible..
Russian manufacturers were not ready to fully fill this market segment. Instead of working intensively to improve quality, they threw on the market a series of products that could be called varnishes with great interference..
Unfortunately, we must admit that, unlike paints, so far domestic manufacturers have not generally provided a worthy alternative to European products..
Despite the disappointing information stated above, we can say that in many cases Russian, even incomplete, products can be successfully used, the main thing is to know what they can and what not.
Almost any acrylic water-dispersive pseudo-varnish of domestic manufacturers can be successfully used for interior work, except for the floor. Nobody makes the floor yet, although they are on sale, but in fact they cannot be considered parquet. Our company produces varnish suitable for parquet, but modestly calls it “Universal” and does not consider it specialized, although it surpasses these pseudo-parquet varnishes.
With external work, you need to be even more careful. In pursuit of a low price, manufacturers use inexpensive styrene-acrylic dispersions in the production of varnishes. They are suitable for facade paints, but a good varnish for external work cannot be made from them, especially when it comes to colorless varnish. It gradually turns yellow in the sun and subsequently flakes off. For these purposes, specialized acrylic dispersions are needed..
The situation is somewhat simpler with tinted varnishes. To a large extent, toning takes on the effect of UV radiation. But another pitfall arises here. Often, in order to save money, Russian manufacturers use pigments with low light fastness for toning, which begin to fade after a couple of years. Unfortunately, this factor applies not only to acrylic, but also to all other domestic varnishes..
Let’s move on to specific recommendations for work. If you want to get the maximum decorative effect when using tinted varnish, then for the first layer it is better to use a colorless one, otherwise you will see various unevenness arising from differences in the absorbency of different wood fragments. For application, it is better to use a spray.
Another recommendation for choosing a varnish. For interior work, especially on surfaces experiencing mechanical stress, it is better to use a harder varnish. These varnishes are also preferred for windows and doors. For external work, flexible varnishes are preferable. In the external environment, the ability of the varnish to withstand strong temperature fluctuations is more important than mechanical stress.
And one more piece of advice. In almost every article, I look at how you can save money. It is better not to save on this class of materials..
Free cheese only comes in mousetraps.
Why is it necessary to cover the wood with varnish? Is it for protection against wear and tear or does it serve a decorative purpose?
What are the specific benefits of covering wood with varnish? Does it enhance its durability or simply add aesthetic appeal?
Covering wood with varnish has several specific benefits. Firstly, varnish enhances the durability of wood by adding a protective layer. It acts as a barrier against moisture, UV rays, and normal wear and tear, preventing the wood from swelling, rotting, or fading. Varnish also increases the wood’s resistance to scratches, stains, and chemicals, thereby extending its lifespan. Additionally, varnish can enhance the wood’s aesthetic appeal by bringing out its natural beauty, color, and grain pattern. It adds a glossy or matte finish, depending on the desired look, thereby improving the visual appeal of the wood surface. Therefore, varnishing wood offers both protective benefits and enhances its overall appearance.
Covering wood with varnish offers both durability and aesthetic appeal. Varnish forms a protective layer on the wood surface, shielding it from moisture, UV damage, and wear. This enhances the wood’s longevity, preventing it from warping, cracking, or rotting. Additionally, varnish adds a glossy or matte finish, enhancing the natural beauty of the wood’s grain and color. It also provides a smooth and durable surface, making it easier to clean and maintain. Thus, varnish not only protects the wood but also enhances its appearance, making it an excellent choice for both practical and aesthetic reasons.