Timber Finishes Flashcards
Why do we use finishes?
They:
• Increase durability
• Protect from decay
• Improve the look
• Improve the working properties or performance
What are some of the finishes used on timber
Stains
Preservatives
Varnish
Oils
Paints
What are timber stains
Stains are applied to enhance or change the colour of the natural timber.
• Applied with brush or cloth
• Does not give protection.
• You can buy varnishes with stains included – difficult to apply evenly.
What are timber preservatives
These products are applied to wood to help repel water and moisture, and in some cases resist insect attack.
• Traditionally brown colours, recently range of colours.
• Easy to apply with a brush.
• Commercial preservatives: added to timber through tanalising.
What are timber varnishes
Vanish can achieve a similar finish look to polish, but gives better protection to the surface.
• Different types i.e. Modern Polyurethane, acrylic.
• Build up in layers, each layer drying before sanding.
• Final coat can have a wax applied for a high quality finish.
What are timber oils
Oils are applied to enhance the natural oils already in the wood.
• Applied with a cloth.
• Built up over layers.
• Oil soaks into the timber, enhancing its ability to repel moisture without
creating a layer on the top of the wood.
• Teak oil: Oily Hardwoods. Danish Oil: Lighter coloured woods.
• Will need recoating.
What are timber paints
Paints give a solid colour finish to the surface of the wood – you cannot see the wood grain through it if the surface is flat.
• Start with a primer coat to seal wood, undercoat, then layer up the paint.
• Rubbed down between each coat with fine glass paper.
• Different finishes: Matt, gloss or silk.
• Oil paints: tougher/durable – longer to dry.
• Acrylic paints: dry quickly and non toxic.
• Applied: Aerosol and roller. Emulsion often more suitable for brush.
• Commercial: Spray finishes – specialist equipment.
