Finishes Flashcards
What are the four general types of finishes for timber?
Oil, wax, lacquer and varnish
How is lacquer applied? *Only after the piece is clean and finely sanded
Almost always sprayed on and a dust-extraction system must be used
Thin, even coats are applied by the spray-gun
Use extremely fine wet and dry sandpaper in between coats after it has dried (a couple of hours)
Minimum of 4 coats to form a protective barrier
How is wax applied? *Only after the piece is clean and finely sanded
Beeswax is applied with a cloth by first getting some on the cloth, then rubbing vigorously into the piece in a circular motion.
Leave for around 10-15 minutes before buffing off with a clean cloth or brush
Must be reapplied yearly
How is oil applied? *Only after the piece is clean and finely sanded
Applied with a brush and immediately the excess is wiped off
24 hours drying between coats and a minimum of 3 coats recommended
Must be reapplied yearly
How is varnish applied? *Only after the piece is clean and finely sanded
Thinner varnishes are sprayed on with rapid drying times
Most are applied with a brush and left to dry clear over a few hours before a light sand and the next coat
Minimum 3 coats
What are the characteristics of lacquer? Does it enhance appearance and/or protect from the environment?
Provides a solid protective layer for an indoor environment
Slightly water resistant
Not UV resistant
Brings out the colour of most timbers
Satin finish
Eventually turns the timber a yellow colour over time
What are the characteristics of oil? Does it enhance appearance and/or protect from the environment?
Weaker protective layer, but seeps deep into timber
Not waterproof
Not UV resistant
Brings out the colour of timbers very effectively
Satin finish
What are the characteristics of wax? Does it enhance appearance and/or protect from the environment?
Strong protective layer Waterproof High UV resistance Doesn't bring out the colour of timber effectively unless a stain is used Satin/matt finish
What are the characteristics of varnish? Does it enhance appearance and/or protect from the environment?
Provides a very solid protective layer Water resistant Can provide some UV resistance Enhances the natural colours of timbers Gloss/satin/matt finish
