Discover the advantages of water-based lacquers compared to polyurethane alternatives, regarding pricing, and the essential steps for preparing wood surfaces for lacquer application
Benefits of Water-Based Wood Lacquers
Water-based lacquers offer comparable quality to nitro or oil-based variants while presenting several advantages:
- Enhanced Environmental Safety: With minimal odor and lower VOC emissions, they are safer and more eco-friendly.
- Preservation of Wood Color: Water-based lacquers minimize color alteration during application, unlike polyurethane lacquers that may impart a yellowish hue.
- UV Protection: Applied impregnation shields wood from UV radiation, preventing discoloration and ensuring prolonged durability.
- Faster Drying Time: Generally, water-based lacquers dry faster than polyurethane counterparts, expediting the finishing process.
Pricing Considerations
While the price of water-based lacquers may vary slightly from other products, it typically aligns with market standards. Therefore, cost should not be the sole determinant when selecting lacquers, especially for smaller surface areas.
Wood Surface Preparation
To achieve optimal results when applying water-based lacquers, meticulous wood preparation is essential:
- Sandpaper Sanding: Utilize sandpaper with a grit range of 240-320 for smoothing wood surfaces. Sand in two passes, moistening the wood between sanding to raise fibers, then sanding again post-drying.
- Application of Impregnation: Prior to lacquer application, apply impregnation to protect against UV radiation and reduce wood absorbency.
- Potential Use of Primer: Depending on the wood type and lacquer manufacturer’s recommendations, applying a primer before the final lacquer coat may be necessary, particularly for oak and ash wood.
- Brush Selection: Opt for brushes with synthetic bristles as they are better suited for water-based lacquers, resisting water absorption and maintaining performance.
Application Procedure
Following proper wood preparation, adhere to the following guidelines for optimal lacquer application:
- Stirring: Before application, gently stir the lacquer instead of shaking to prevent bubble formation.
- Even Coating: Apply lacquer evenly, ensuring full coverage across the wood surface.
- Addressing Cloudiness: If the initial lacquer coat appears milky, do not panic; this cloudiness results from moisture and will dissipate upon drying, leaving a transparent finish.
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In summary, water-based wood lacquers offer an array of benefits, including environmental safety, color preservation, and efficient drying times. By adhering to meticulous wood preparation and application procedures, you can achieve exceptional results with these lacquers, enhancing both the appearance and durability of your wood surfaces.
Foto: Freepik