Understanding Wood Furniture Finishes
When it comes to furniture refinishing, applying a protective or refinishing coating to wood is often the final step in making a fine piece of wood furniture shine. The finish on wood can help to bring out the grain and provide a beautiful luster while also providing more protection against the likes of moisture, oils, and other elements, which makes it easier to clean.
VARNISH
Naturally heat, water, and ultraviolet resistant, this is a resin, oil, and solvent mixture that is flexible and durable. If you live in a coastal area, then your wood furniture will be exposed to more humidity and constant expansion or contraction. Conversion varnish can provide an excellent protective finish; however, one drawback is that it can be hard to reverse once applied and even harder to refinish. As for the appearance, varnish has a low- or semi-gloss finish, which will provide a more hand-rubbed look.
LACQUER
This is considered by many professional woodworkers to be the best for hardwood furniture when it comes to beauty, protective qualities, and ease of application, not to mention maintenance. Without delving too far into its complexities, pre-catalyzed lacquer uses a catalyst to create a chemical reaction that will dry even harder than the durable evaporative method of traditional lacquer. Just note that lacquer is not invincible and will still scratch. In addition to water-resistant and abrasion properties, lacquer is a thinner finish, so it will need multiple coats. This will provide an ultra-smooth, clear and natural look, which will allow the wood to be the star of the show and not the finish.
If you would like to make an appointment with a professional furniture refinishing expert, please do not hesitate to contact Pinnacle Furniture Restoration at (616) 633-8822 now if you live in or around the Grand Rapids, MI region.