Decoupage varnish: types and methods of application

In addition to napkins, to work using the decoupage technique you need to purchase several more basic components. One of these auxiliary materials is finishing varnish. Decoupage varnishes are presented on the shelves of handicraft stores in an amazing variety. Sometimes choosing the best option for yourself can be quite difficult. Of course, you can contact a sales consultant and he will tell you about the properties of each product, but in order not to waste time in the store, we suggest you learn everything about decoupage varnishes now.

VARNISH BASE FOR DECOUPAGE

Varnishes are a poly composition consisting of resins and oils or alcohols. When such solutions are applied to the surface, the resin and oils dry out, and the alcohol turns into steam and evaporates. When the varnish has dried on the surface of the product, it forms a thin glossy or matte film, which is waterproof protection. The characteristics of this film directly depend on the properties of the composition you applied.

In addition to protective finishing solutions, there are varnishes that perform other functions, for example, craquelure varnish cracks when dry and gives the product an antique effect.

This substance is an integral part of decoupage, which is also called napkin technique.

WHY TO USE FINAL VARNISH FOR DECOUPAGE

A product decorated with motifs cut from a napkin, rice paper, printout or fabric is coated with varnish on top. The number of layers of this substance can reach 50.

If the napkins glued to the base do not have folds or snags, then only three layers of varnish may be enough for the craft. Rarely does anyone manage to design a product the first time without visible flaws, so beginners use more layers.

All layers except the last are treated with fine-grained sandpaper for better adhesion to each other. Opening the craft with varnish is necessary, first of all, to give the work a finished look, and also with the help of this stage you can hide all the irregularities and imperfections formed during the decoupage process. In addition, the varnish has moisture-repellent and sun-protective properties, which significantly increases the service life of the item coated with it.

WHAT THE VARNISH SHOULD BE FOR DECOUPAGE WITH NAPKINS

Finishing varnish for decoupage can be purchased at a specialty or hardware store. In order not to make a mistake in choosing a substance that can be used to coat a designed product, you need to know exactly what properties a high-quality varnish should have.

What kind of varnish can the finished product be coated with:

1. A good varnish is easily and evenly applied to the surface using a stiff brush.
2. High-quality finishing decoupage compositions dry quickly on the surface. Long-drying varnishes are not suitable for working in the napkin technique, since not one, but several layers are applied to the base.
3. Fully corresponds to the qualities described on the packaging. Transparent, glossy or matte varnish - remain that way after drying.
4. If the product is of high quality, then the varnished surface will not stick after drying. Sticky products are unpleasant to the touch and debris and dust quickly stick to them.
5. The varnish coating for decoupage should not acquire a yellowish tint after drying.
6. The varnished surface should not roll off, to prevent this from happening, it is better not to use products on different bases.

The final finish largely depends on the choice of varnish. appearance your product. When buying varnish, remember that glass and plastic cannot be coated with wood compounds and vice versa.

WHAT VARNISH IS USED FOR DECOUPAGE: TYPES

Varnishes can be water-based, oil-based or alcohol-based. They all have their pros and cons. Special decoupage varnish is more decorative than protective, but building compounds will protect your products from any adverse effects environment.

Types of decoupage varnishes:

1. Acrylic and acrylate varnishes are most often used in decoupage; when hardened, they form a transparent waterproof film. They are usually water-based, so if the composition thickens, it is simply diluted without a large number water. This product is ideal for implanting a printout with its face into the varnish.
2. Polyurethane varnishes have a water and oil base. Water-based varnishes are more environmentally friendly, so they are used more often. Funds for water based more durable and waterproof, they are often used for finishing saunas. The polyurethane coating dries quickly enough and acquires all its properties within a couple of days.
3. Decorative varnishes, such as beveled, velor and bitumen varnish, usually do not have any special protective properties, but give the products a more interesting appearance. For example, craquelure varnish cracks when dry and creates an antique effect. It can easily be replaced with PVA glue. That's why decorative compositions no need to buy.
4. It is correct to apply nitro varnish with a mask and gloves that protect the skin of your hands, since such solutions are very toxic and have a pungent chemical odor. The advantage of these coatings is their high strength.
5. Tsapon is highly resistant to temperature changes and has a relatively low price. Its use is justified for products that will be frequently exposed to high temperatures. Dried zapon can only be removed from brushes and other surfaces using a solvent.
6. Vitreous varnish has high ductility and wear resistance, so it can be used to coat leather products that bend frequently, such as wallets. This solution is quite expensive and can deteriorate if stored incorrectly.
7. Shellac composition does not form a varnish film. It emphasizes the depth of color of products painted in metallic shades. It is also used to fix gold leaf and bitumen and add a slight shine to wood.
8. Mod podge or spray varnish is very convenient to use, although it is quite expensive. The spray bottle makes using varnish more convenient without using a brush.

These are the main types of varnishes used for decoupage; there are also various porcelain varnishes; they harden when exposed to high temperatures. You need to choose a varnish in accordance with the design of the product and the conditions in which it will be used.

WHAT VARNISH CAN BE USED FOR DECOUPAGE: BUILDING COMPOSITIONS

Special varnishes for decoupage are sold in small bottles and are quite expensive, so many craftswomen go to hardware stores to buy finishing products. Construction varnishes can be used instead of decoupage varnishes; it is better to purchase such solutions in large-volume jars, then their cost is quite low. Also, to reduce the cost, it is worth choosing formulations produced in Ukraine, for example “Kiva” or “Tair”.

Construction varnishes suitable for decoupage are divided into two types:

1. Yacht varnish has a yellowish tint. It comes in matte and glossy. Such compositions are used to protect furniture from environmental influences. If you coat a product with this composition, it will acquire an amber tint, thereby enhancing the effect of antiquity. Alkyd varnishes have a strong chemical odor, which is why you should use protective masks when working with them. Choosing a good yacht varnish is not difficult; a sales consultant at a hardware store will definitely help you.
2. Parquet varnish has high wear resistance and transparency. Reviews about the use of such a composition are always positive. It does not leave yellow streaks, so it is even suitable for covering a refrigerator.

The choice of construction varnishes is facilitated by their low price and high protective indicators. Making a varnish coating on any product with your own hands using such compositions is quite simple.

GLUE VARNISH FOR DECOUPAGE

There is a special adhesive varnish for decoupage; its main feature is that it performs two functions at once: it attaches the base to the picture and protects the finished product.

Instead of a special adhesive varnish, you can use regular acrylic varnish to implant prints.

A special adhesive varnish is also sold for implanting printouts into wooden surfaces. It is applied in a thick layer to the image, after which the paper is removed by rolling, and the image remains sealed in the varnish layer.

VARNISH FOR DECOUPAGE: ANY WOOD IS SUITABLE

Wood is a fairly unpretentious material, so almost any type of varnish is suitable for such products. You can use the compounds left over after the repair or buy a special acrylic varnish - the effect will be equally good.

A wooden surface will look great under a layer of any varnish, but for glass or plastic you need a special varnish.

The only condition when varnishing wood is to thoroughly sand the surface, otherwise the protective layer may begin to roll off after some time.

BITUMEN VARNISH FOR DECOUPAGE

Bitumen varnish is used for artificial aging of crafts. It can be rubbed into cracks formed after applying the craquelure agent or applied to the entire surface of the product. Excess bitumen is removed using a cotton pad soaked in solvent. Such varnishes are not cheap, but they have a beautiful decorative effect.

Bituminous varnish can be successfully replaced with wax based on the same bitumen.

Despite the fact that this composition has some protective properties, several layers of more durable varnish must be applied on top of it.

WHICH VARNISH IS BETTER FOR DECOUPAGE AND HOW TO APPLY IT

It is difficult to say which of the above listed varnishes is better, it depends on personal preferences and needs. However, there are some tips for use.

Master class on applying varnish:

• Cover the product with the glued decor with a thin layer of varnish using a brush with artificial hair;
• Carefully sand the first layer of varnish and apply the second;
• We apply layer by layer, sanding the previous one before each next layer;
• There is no need to sand the last layer.

How many layers need to be applied depends on how well and accurately the decoupage of the product was performed.

WHAT VARNISH IS NEEDED FOR DECOUPAGE (VIDEO)

Whatever varnish you choose, remember that the appearance and service life of the product depend on its quality.

DETAILS: BITUMEN VARNISH IN DECOUPAGE (PHOTO EXAMPLES)

Varnishes are used to protect wood products and give them various effects. Exists large number varieties of this material, differing in technical characteristics and scope of application. We will tell you in this article how to choose the right substance for wood processing.

What is varnish and where is it used?

Varnish is a viscous liquid that is applied to the surface of a wooden product and covers it with a thin film. It hardens over time. This substance contains resins and various polymers, which are usually dissolved in special solvents.

Looking at the catalog the best varnishes, it can be noted that thanks to them the following tasks are solved:

• the appearance of the wood is preserved and emphasis is placed on its texture;
• surfaces are decorated;
• the tree is protected from putrefactive processes and damage;
• help improve thermal insulation.

This material can be used for internal and external work. Its properties and scope of application depend on the structure. If you need to create a solid base, then it is advisable to buy an alkyd-urea variety; to protect against moisture, buy an alkyd substance, and to cover surfaces subject to heavy loads, buy an oil one.

There are 5 categories based on the degree of gloss, as can be seen from the photo of wood varnish:

• regular matte gives less than 10% gloss;
• semi-matte 10-15%;
• semi-gloss 40-50%;
• glossy 80-90%;
• super glossy over 90% gloss.

Varieties by area of ​​application

You need to choose the material depending on the area of ​​use. After all, different surfaces and operating conditions require different technological qualities.

For interior work

By covering wooden structures indoors with liquid, you not only provide them with decorative properties, but also protect them from external influences. There are special substances for parquet and furniture, as well as universal materials.

The floor covering must be reliably protected, because it is under constant load. At the same time, you can choose the effect you prefer by purchasing glossy or matte wood varnish.

You also need to select the composition for different rooms. After all, in the bedroom the load on the parquet will be less than in the hallway or living room. Therefore, in the second case, higher quality material with additional protection will be required.

Experts also recommend selecting parquet coatings based on the degree of transparency, consistency and method of application. Parameters such as resistance to ultraviolet radiation and stress are also important. Among the substances used for flooring, primer, water-soluble, polyurethane, alkyd, and formaldehyde types are popular.

To protect furniture, high-quality and expensive analogues are used. They must maintain external natural look wood Therefore, the polyurethane type of material is most often used. It is also permissible to use oil, alkyd, acrylic and alcohol compounds.

It is important that the coating does not retain odor and that the film hardens quickly. Therefore, quick-drying wood varnish when processing furniture can be indispensable when carrying out urgent work.

External use

To protect structures located outside the home, a more durable coating is required. Therefore, the selected material must guarantee resistance to external weather factors and mechanical damage. They cover facades, gazebos, decking, fences, log houses, etc.

A variation of this group can be alkyd-based yacht varnish for wood. It is harmful and is used only for processing wooden ships, but not for interior work. Safer is the yacht look based on urethane-alkyd.

Types by composition

A wide variety of liquids for finishing wooden surfaces are on sale. Their specificity is the presence of certain substances in the structure.

Oily

This type of paint and varnish is widely used in interior finishing work, but is not suitable for flooring. Contains oil and resin. Fatty and medium-fat mixtures perfectly cover the surface, protecting it. But materials with a fat content of less than 50% serve only the role of decorative finishing.

Increasing the amount of resin speeds up the hardening process, but this reduces strength. The color of the substance varies from yellowish to brown. Drying time 24-72 hours.

Alkyd

High-quality coatings that dry within 48 hours are used in interior and exterior work and provide a very durable coating on different types of wood. The composition is moisture-resistant, resistant to ultraviolet radiation, temperature changes and moisture. Used for treating floors and furniture. Thanks to additives, drying speed can be increased.

Acrylic

This is the safest type of paintwork. Water-based acrylic varnish for wood is odorless and highly fire-resistant. The resulting film is not sensitive to ultraviolet radiation, but is exposed to moisture.

Nitrovarnishes

Such mixtures are weakly resistant to ultraviolet liquids, the use of which is limited to internal work. Can be used for processing different types of wood. Penetrate into the product and create a strong protective film.

An important advantage is the drying speed - only a few hours. The composition contains toxic solvents, so work is carried out only in a respirator.

Polyurethane

They may have a two-component structure of a base and a hardener or additionally contain a solvent. They are characterized by increased adhesion, but have a pungent odor and harden within 15-20 days. The hard film protects surfaces from moisture, corrosion and chemical components. Therefore, varnish is used to treat yachts and ships, gazebos, and parquet.

Polyester

They are distinguished by their multicomponent nature; the resin of the same name is used as a base. It is applied to the surface with a special gun.

As a result, a durable transparent film is formed on the processed parts, which is particularly durable, moisture-resistant, and resistant to elevated temperatures and chemical reagents. It is used to coat objects that require a glossy effect, such as musical instruments.

Epoxy

These are moisture-resistant, impact-resistant paintwork materials, having a two-component composition based on epoxy resin. They cover flooring, doors, and solid floors. For example, epoxy varnish for tikkurila wood is popular.

When processing wood when carrying out interior or exterior work, you should use high-quality paints and varnishes. They must be selected depending on the type of structure, operating conditions and the expected external visual effect.

Photo of wood varnish

Often, special wood material is used as interior decoration. Lining is a natural, environmentally friendly material. It has great features and looks great too. It is often used to decorate verandas and simple ones. Therefore, special requirements are placed on the material.

After all, a tree is “alive” natural material subject to aging. It is afraid of high humidity, sudden changes in temperature, and various biological pests. Under bright sunlight, the unique qualities of wood are quickly lost.

the surface is coated with varnish, which ensures the safety of the material and its properties.

Those who neglect such treatment may find chips, cracks, abrasions and banal dirt on it after a few years.

What are the benefits of treated wood texture?

• Preventing appearance and rot.
• Resistance to various mechanical damages.
• Protection from sun exposure.
• Increased fire resistance
• Aesthetics.

During installation, lining is often treated with various special-purpose compounds: drying oil, antiseptic, stain. Initial view the material changes slightly. Coating the top with varnish refreshes and ennobles it.

Choosing the right product

Types of varnish

How and with what to cover the tree?

Before you start applying varnish, it is first better to familiarize yourself with their varieties.

The following types are considered the most popular:

• water soluble;
• alkyd;
• polyurethane;
• acrylic.

Representatives of all these groups can be used for interior finishing work: they do not emit harmful toxic fumes and are harmless to health. What are the features and performance characteristics of these products?

Water soluble

Water soluble

Water-based varnishes are characterized by the absence unpleasant odor and fairly fast drying time. They are completely non-toxic, making it possible to paint lining indoors without the use of protective equipment.

You don't even need a respirator. Such compositions are used exclusively for treating wooden surfaces.

All water-based compounds have a polyurethane or acrylic base. They can have different compositions - two-component or one-component.

The latter contains only one base, while the two-component one also contains a hardener. Therefore, the characteristics of a two-component coating are better; the coating it makes is more durable and strong.

Acrylic

These varnishes help wood perfectly preserve its unique natural texture. They will be an excellent choice for finishing the surface of premises. In addition to improving the aesthetic qualities of the treated surface, they protect it from harmful influences, including sunlight. Compound acrylic varnishes may differ slightly, so you need to carefully study the instructions.

Following it, the compositions are diluted with ether, alcohol or water. The mixture dries almost instantly after application. Surfaces treated with acrylic-containing products do not tolerate excess moisture, so if dirt appears, it is better to refrain from trying to wash it off with water. For the same reason, acrylic-based varnish is not very suitable for use, for example, in the kitchen, where humidity is usually high.

Alkyd

They have almost all the characteristics of the previous ones, but plus they are not afraid of high humidity, and even moisture itself. Therefore, the surface treated with them can be washed without fear.

The ability to wash with water is very important, especially if you have children or pets.

The alkyd varnish coating is characterized by increased strength, protecting the wood even from significant mechanical influences: It prevents scratches, chips and other damage.

Great for use as a varnish. The disadvantages of this drug are the unpleasant odor when used, as well as the rather long time required for it to dry completely. It requires at least two days. But this drawback can be easily eliminated by adding a specially produced hardener.

Polyurethane

Polyurethane is often used for parquet

The advantages of this group of varnishes are difficult to overestimate.

They not only protect the material from aging and harmful influences, giving it a spectacular appearance.

They allow it to acquire completely unique qualities that are completely uncharacteristic of the capricious natural material:

• high resistance to ultraviolet radiation;
• increased resistance to moisture;
• resistance to aggressive agents such as alkalis.

The remarkable characteristics of the drug determine its corresponding price.

The price for the group of polyurethane varnishes is noticeably higher than that of other groups. But you can use this varnish both inside the house and outside.

The nuances of using varnish

There are important features of the use of water-soluble varnishes, taking into account which you can obtain a more aesthetic and high-quality result.

• Don’t forget to do a bio-corrosion treatment before varnishing.
• Any type of varnish is best applied in at least two layers. This way you can achieve maximum strength of the protective film on the material.
• When working, the varnish composition needs regular stirring. This way its structure will be more uniform, it will lay down easier and more evenly.

After the first layer has completely dried, the resulting surface is lightly sanded, after which another application is carried out.

Varnish application process

How to apply varnish correctly? The wood and lining must be well dried, only after this can you begin to decorate it. After covering the surfaces, at least five days must pass. There are no particular difficulties in the application process. The procedure is not at all difficult to perform on your own. But it is advisable to use the recommendations of experienced professionals for this.

What you will need for work:

• the actual varnish composition;
• container for it;
• large and small brushes and rollers;
• fine sandpaper;
• solvent, gloves, stepladder.

The surface is well cleaned, dust and dirt are removed. If there is an old coating, it must be removed. Old varnish can be easily removed with baking soda. The affected areas are treated with a disinfecting and bleaching solution. The material needs high-quality polishing. To do this, use a special grinding machine or regular sandpaper.

When all defects are removed and unevenness is smoothed, a layer of primer is applied to the surface, which fills the wood pores. After it dries, a special composition is applied, which helps to increase the service life of the wood. This is the so-called covering layer.

After about a day, no less, you can proceed directly to varnishing the house. It is better to use a brush made of natural bristles for this.

During use, individual hairs do not fall out of it, complicating the process and deteriorating the quality of work. The varnish must be mixed so that a homogeneous, uniform mass is obtained. Then it will lay down in a thin and even layer, and the coating will not have sloppy streaks.

After the initial varnish layer has completely dried, the surface is lightly sanded. After this, a second, final layer of varnish is applied, which may be colorless.

Respectable parquet flooring requires special treatment. If a plank floor can simply be “covered” with paint, then the parquet must be covered with varnish or special wax (or oil), otherwise it will quickly lose its attractiveness. In addition to the aesthetic purpose of the varnish coating, it serves as good protection for the board, without which the service life of the parquet is significantly reduced.

- this is a question that arises among homeowners who are installing parquet boards. In addition to varnishes, the assortment of construction stores includes a large selection of various compositions for protecting and transforming wood, but varnish, as the most reliable and proven product over the years, is still the most popular today.

Parquet varnishes can have different bases, so before choosing the one you need, you need to familiarize yourself with the characteristics of some of them.

Criteria for choosing parquet varnish

When choosing the composition of the varnish for parquet, you need to take into account the type of wood from which the board is made, since it can have light and dark shades, so the varnish must match its color. In addition, each of the rocks has its own density, and its absorbency depends on this property of the material.

When choosing a varnish, the purpose of the room in which, that is, the intensity of traffic, humidity and types of loads, is also of great importance. which the coating will be exposed. If the varnish will be used to cover the floor in a room in an ordinary apartment where a small family lives, then there is no need to choose a varnish that can withstand heavy loads.

But even in such conditions, you need to take into account the specific room. For example, for a hallway or kitchen it is better to purchase varnishes with the ability to experience higher loads, since these rooms have high traffic and are cleaned more often. Therefore, in this case, the protective properties of the composition should be an order of magnitude higher.

For public buildings and premises with a high intensity of human flow, you need to pay attention to the strength of the varnish, since it will have to withstand mechanical stress from numerous heels and dust and dirt carried on shoes. In such places, oil impregnations or durable water-repellent compounds are often used, which will help keep the parquet flooring in good condition for a long time. Moreover, such a floor is easier to renew, unlike varnish coatings. Therefore, varnish is used extremely rarely in this case.

It is also necessary to remember that inexpensive compositions are not particularly durable and will last no more than 2 ÷ 3 years, and given that the process of applying varnish is quite a labor-intensive task, it is better to immediately choose a reliable composition that will keep the floor in its original condition for 12 ÷ 15 years old. Naturally, its price is many times higher, but by using it you can save yourself from many problems for a long time. These varnishes include two-component compositions.

There is no need to think that material produced abroad will necessarily be of higher quality and more durable. First of all, you need to pay attention to the chemical composition of the varnish, and not to the country in which it was released. Some imported products are not of high quality, have an unpleasant odor, take a long time to dry and wear out quickly.

It is very important to pay attention to the consumption of the composition. For example, five liters quality varnish should be enough to cover an area of ​​15 ÷ 17 m² in three layers, 20 ÷ 25 m² in two layers, you can stretch it to 30 m² of a room, but the layers will be thinner.

Also, you need to pay attention to the container in which the varnish is sold, since high-quality compositions are never sold in wholesale containers or plastic buckets - this is usually how counterfeits of imported varnishes from well-known manufacturers are packaged.

The varnish must be packed in tin cans or plastic canisters with a volume of no more than 5 ÷ 10 liters. If this is a two-component version of the varnish, then a bottle of additional composition should be attached to the main container. They are mixed together in the strict proportions indicated on the packaging, immediately before application to the parquet.

So, when buying varnish, you need to pay attention to the following characteristics:

• Parquet varnishes are produced on different bases - urethane-alkyd, alkyd, polyurethane, formaldehyde and water-based. These parameters are indicated on the packaging in the chemical composition section.
• The material can give a coloring effect or be completely transparent and retain the natural color and texture of the wood.
• The consistency of the varnish can be viscous or fluid - the method of applying it to the surface will depend on this parameter.
• The composition can give various aesthetic effects - matte, silky-matte, semi-matte or semi-gloss and glossy.
• In addition, the packaging indicates susceptibility to moisture, resistance to stress, wear resistance and approximate service life.

Types of varnishes for parquet

To implement right choice, you need to know what each type of varnish is.

Primer varnishes

The very name of such varnishes suggests that their purpose is to prepare the surface for layers of finishing coating. Primer varnishes impregnate the wood, and this promotes better adhesion when applying the next, main layers. If the parquet is treated with primers, the quality of the front coating improves several times. But besides this, the use of such starting processing contributes to:

• reducing the adhesive effect of the top layers of varnish at the joints of individual dies;
• creating a perfectly smooth surface and highlighting the textured pattern of wood;
• protecting the surface and side parts of the dies from possible exposure to moisture;
• preservation of natural protective oils of valuable wood species.

Primer varnishes are selected depending on the basis on which the finishing coating will be made, since these compositions must be compatible with each other and have good adhesion.

If the materials are incompatible, the work will be completely damaged and will have to be redone, as the surface will be covered with light spots. This problem can only be corrected by removing the varnish or sanding the entire floor.

For example, if a water-based varnish is purchased for finishing, then the primer should be exclusively water-based - then the parquet will have an even and reliable coating.

It is also very important that the surface coated with a primer tends to absorb the finishing varnish less, which means it significantly reduces its consumption.

Primer varnishes made on different bases dry quite quickly, since some of them are absorbed into the surface of the parquet wood, and the remaining excess quickly evaporates. The drying time of the first primer layer ranges from 20 minutes to 3 ÷ 4 hours.

To reach desired result and get a beautiful surface, craftsmen recommend using a primer and a primer made by the same manufacturer. This is due to the fact that the composition of these varnishes is designed to be fully compatible with each other; in fact, they represent a single “system”, so they have excellent adhesion and will never cause any “undesirable reactions”. By choosing formulations from different companies, you can get an unpredictable result that is unlikely to please you.

Water-based varnishes for parquet

Water-based varnishes are the most popular due to the fact that they do not have an unpleasant odor and dry quickly enough. When choosing such a material, it is better to purchase two-component compositions, since when dry they provide a more durable, moisture-resistant coating than one-component options.

One of the most popular are water-based parquet varnishes.

This varnish includes its composition microscopic particles solvent and emulsifiers mixed with water, so it dries somewhat differently than materials on other bases. After the composition is applied to the primed surface, water first evaporates from it and only then the solvent, which undergoes a concentration process before evaporation. Further, after its evaporation, a hard and durable film is formed on the surface of the parquet.

Water-based varnishes can be divided into three categories based on their solvent content:

• The first of them includes compositions where this component is completely absent;
• the second category includes water-based varnishes containing no more than 5% solvent;
• the third category contains solvent at a rate of 15%.

All three categories of varnishes, regardless of the amount of solvent in them, have good adhesive properties with wooden surfaces, and therefore are excellent for both solid boards and parquet.

It must be said that water-based varnishes must be applied to the primed surface of the parquet, in order to avoid penetration of the varnish between the dies. Moisture, getting between them, can be absorbed by the wood and subsequently lead to creaking in the parquet. By the way, according to many craftsmen, you should not use water-based varnishes at all for parquet floors, since there is always a risk of an unpleasant squeak, even if a primer was previously used.

These varnishes also have a number of other significant disadvantages that you need to be aware of when purchasing the material:

• One-component water-based varnishes, consisting of water, solvents and emulsifiers, have low wear resistance and therefore wear out quickly. Two-component varnishes have a longer service life and perfectly protect the wood surface, but only if this composition is applied in a room where the humidity is 50%. Such an atmosphere in the rooms cannot always be achieved, especially in winter when the heating is on.
• To ensure that the surface of the water-based varnish is smooth after drying, it must be applied using a roller, since tampons, sponges, spatulas and even brushes are absolutely not suitable for this process.

The pronounced positive qualities of water-based varnishes include the following:

• The absence of unpleasant pungent odors, such as from varnishes made with organic solvents - this factor especially attracts owners of apartments with a small volume of space. However, you don’t need to think that the varnish has absolutely no odor - it is still present, but not as strong and pungent as other compositions.
• Water-based varnishes are not flammable, so they are used in rooms where, according to fire safety rules, it is prohibited to coat surfaces with compositions based on flammable substances.

There is one more secret that is good to know before buying water-based varnish. If you purchase a professional varnish, then it can be applied to unprimed surface. If the packaging does not indicate the “professional” category of a particular composition, then treating the floor with a primer before applying it is necessary.

Alkyd varnishes

Alkyd varnishes are made on the basis of resins obtained from natural raw materials by transesterification vegetable oils, glycerin and rosin, alcohols and acids. Due to the presence of oils in their composition, varnishes have the ability to be absorbed into the structure of the wood, thereby creating its reliable protection from external mechanical damage and exposure to moisture.

Alkyd compositions also contain quite toxic substances, such as white spirit, so when buying this product for parquet, you need to choose a composition with the lowest concentration of this substance. Like any other varnish option, alkyd has its own positive qualities and negative ones that you need to know about when purchasing this product for finishing parquet.

Glossy and semi-gloss, semi-matte and matte types of alkyd varnishes are produced, from which you can choose the one that is more suitable for a particular application.

The positive properties of alkyd varnishes include:

• Deep penetration of the substance into the structure of the surface being coated.
• The alkyd composition enhances the textured beauty of wood, giving it an aesthetic appearance.
• The varnish has a viscous consistency, so it does not flow between the dies, which means that after the coating dries, there will be no squeaking when walking on the parquet.
• It is not affected by changes in temperature and humidity, and also has high resistance to mechanical stress.

The negative properties of the compositions include the following points:

• The varnish applied to the surface takes a long time to dry and requires special drying conditions.
• Drying the varnish must be carried out at not too high temperatures, since this process can take a long time, therefore, when a film forms on the varnish, it is best to create a small draft by opening doors and windows;
• Since the consistency of the varnish is quite thick, when applying it to the surface you need to carefully monitor the thickness of the layer, otherwise when it dries, wrinkles may form in places where the layer is thicker;
• Alkyd varnishes are characterized by rapid abrasion, so the coating will often have to be renewed. In a word, this type of varnish is more suitable for covering furniture than flooring.

The coating turns out beautiful, but, alas, it is short-lived

If you want to get a high-quality and durable parquet coating, then it is better to refuse alkyd varnishes, even though they also have certain advantages, which have already been mentioned.

Polyurethane varnishes

The polyurethane type of varnish is excellent for rooms with high traffic intensity, as it is extremely wear-resistant and has high adhesive properties. This type of parquet covering material can be one- or two-component, and is marked PUR and DD.

"Champions" in wear resistance - polyurethane varnishes

Polyurethane varnishes can be made on different bases - urethane or acrylic. Depending on the base, the compositions have different smells, but, unfortunately, all of them are not very pleasant. Since polyurethane varnish contains no water at all, it dries much faster than the water-soluble version. The hardening of this varnish begins with the evaporation of the solvents included in its composition. Then a chemical process of polyaddition undergoes, as a result of which the varnish hardens.

During the period of applying the composition to the parquet, as well as when it dries, it should not come into contact with water. Parquet wood should have a moisture content of no more than 6-8%, but if it exceeds this figure, the work can be spoiled by the appearance of air bubbles, peeling or even foaming. As a result, defects will be clearly visible on the surface of the parquet.

The polyurethane composition of the varnish, like all others, has its advantages, but has almost no negative qualities.

TO positive aspects in the polyurethane composition include the following:

• After the coating hardens, it becomes moisture resistant, as it forms a kind of film on the surface of the parquet.
• The resulting film is quite elastic and does not tighten the surface structure of the parquet wood.
• This coating does not require preparation of the parquet surface with primers.
• After hardening and polymerization, the coating does not respond to changes in temperature and humidity in the room.
• Parquet coated with polyurethane varnish is perfectly protected from mechanical stress and abrasive loads.

We can say that this varnish has one significant drawback - if it gets into the cracks of the parquet, it glues it together individual elements, which is generally undesirable for such a coating.

Otherwise, the polyurethane version of varnish can be called the best for covering parquet, since it is suitable for rooms with any intensity of load.

Video: water-soluble two-component varnish for parquet based on polyurethane

Formaldehyde varnishes

There are also two-component parquet varnishes on sale, one of the components of which is an acid or formaldehyde hardener. Such varnishes are considered the most durable and reliable.

However, even just the name of the composition is frightening, since a substance such as formaldehyde is dangerous to human health.

It should be noted that this element in the varnish plays the role of a hardener. When the varnish completely hardens, there is no longer a trace of this dangerous component left in it. During the hardening process, formaldehyde evaporates, so working with this varnish is necessary with the mandatory use of respiratory protection (a respirator), and the drying process should be carried out with open windows.

The advantages of formaldehyde varnishes are as follows:

• They have excellent adhesion to wood;
• It is possible to apply varnish with any tool convenient for the master.
• This coating does not require preliminary priming, which allows saving on pre-treatment of parquet;
• The material is highly resistant to changes in humidity and temperature;
• This varnish coating is wear-resistant to all types of loads.

Negative properties of varnishes containing formaldehyde:

• This type of varnish easily flows into the cracks between the dies, as it has a fairly liquid consistency;
• The composition initially has an unpleasant, pungent odor and is quite toxic, so you will have to take precautions when applying it.

Find out if there is and how to choose suitable model, from our new article.

When choosing a specific varnish composition for covering parquet, you should get additional advice from salespeople directly in the store and carefully study the annotation located on the packaging. Based on the characteristics that this publication introduced you to, it will be easier to understand the intricacies of the choice and make a truly successful purchase.

Prices for types of varnishes for parquet

Parquet varnish

Video: the right choice of paints and varnishes for wooden and parquet floors

Let's figure out which varnish for parquet is better and how to choose it. First, it’s worth clarifying what types of varnishes can be found on the modern building materials market.

First of all, varnishes can be divided into those that are solvent-based (for example, white spirit), and water-based varnishes, which means water-soluble (note that after drying, the varnish does not interact with water, so does not erase). The third type is acid varnishes, for example the famous “Novomoskovsky”, manufactured since the times of the Soviet Union, and more modern ones, which are used less frequently because they are highly toxic and have quite strong yellowing during operation.

Solvent-based varnishes, often called polyurethane, are more suitable for those who like a high-gloss floor; it is almost impossible to achieve this effect with water-based varnish.

Disadvantages of this product:

• - drying time, each layer should dry for at least 4 hours, and ideally up to 24 hours;
• - fades (turns yellow) over time;
• - contains allergens.

The positive aspects of solvent-based varnishes: high level gloss and low price.

Some world-famous companies, for example Bona from Sweden, have long ago decided to stop the production of solvent-based varnishes, and for good reason. According to European standards, such parquet products are considered harmful to human health.

Water-based varnishes come in one-component and two-component types. One-component varnish is most often used in rooms where the load on the parquet is quite moderate - in apartment rooms. Two-component varnish is necessary in rooms where the load on the parquet can be called high, for example in the corridor, kitchen, school, office, kindergarten etc. However, if you have the means, you can cover the parquet with a two-component varnish in the bedroom or other living rooms, this will only increase the life of the floor covering.

People often assume that water-based varnish can be easily removed with water. This is a mistake: the water content in the varnish is considered a great achievement in parquet chemistry! After the varnish dries, all the water evaporates, and the coating becomes highly durable. It will be impossible to wash such varnish not only with water, but also with other types of household chemicals (and some types of water-soluble varnishes and aggressive chemicals). The only way to remove the coating to install a new one is by sanding.

The advantages of water-based varnish include:

• - low toxicity;
• - quick drying (3-4 layers are applied within a few hours);
• - absence of allergens;
• - no smell;
• - absence of yellowness, which usually appears over time;
• - preservation of the structure of the tree (the effect of wood not covered with products);
• - high strength (with the same consumption of water-based varnish and solvent-based varnish).

Disadvantages of water-based varnish: its cost is higher than that of solvent-based varnish. To achieve a glossy effect, more coats of gloss varnish are required.

The next question in choosing a varnish for parquet is its price. Let's simplify the task by recalculating the price per 1 liter.

At the beginning of 2011, solvent-based varnishes cost from 500 to 2,500 rubles. per liter

Let's take a closer look at water-based varnish. Its manufacturers have a very wide range of prices for their products. Today, the cheapest varnish is considered to be domestically produced varnish. It can be purchased for about 250 rubles. per liter (for a package of 5 liters we will pay 1,250 rubles).

This kind of flooring will last for several years, however, there is a remark that water (spilled on the floor, for example) passes through the parquet, and the wood changes its color. Despite this, domestic water-based varnishes are in great demand among consumers. The average price for water-soluble varnish produced in England, America, the Baltic states or Germany is 550 rubles. per liter (RUB 2,750 for a 5-liter container). By the way, with a three-layer application, such a varnish can last about 4-7 years.

Varnishes of exceptional quality are produced by companies specializing exclusively in professional parquet chemistry. Such varnishes usually cannot be bought in construction supermarkets; they are sold by companies involved in floor coverings. The world's leading manufacturers are Bona (Sweden), Loba (Germany), Tover (Italy).

IN recent years The Germans were ahead as high-quality manufacturers of parquet products. A large assortment of German-made varnishes allowed Germany to conquer the countries of the European Union. The cost of a single-component varnish of the highest quality is 550 rubles. per liter ( average cost- 2,750-3,600 rub. for a 5-liter container). This varnish will last at least 10 years. For two-component varnish - from 900 rubles. per liter (on average 4,500-6,800 rubles per 5 liters). Two-component varnishes are designed to last at least 15 years in an ordinary apartment and up to 10 years in offices or other service-type premises.

Classification of parquet varnishes and oils. Which parquet varnish to choose

Types of parquet varnishes and oils. Bases and solvents. Which parquet varnish and parquet oil is best to use in which case?

Properties of parquet varnishes

When choosing a varnish (usually the varnish for parquet work is chosen by a parquet master taking into account the customer’s wishes), it is necessary to take into account its most important technical characteristics, which are usually given in the description. The determining factors when choosing a varnish are the purpose of the room and the expected load on the parquet. If the room will be used by a small number of people and they will walk around in light house shoes, then you should choose parquet varnish for floors with increased load.

In non-residential premises with high traffic (bars, restaurants, museums, shops, etc.), it is preferable, instead of covering parquet floors with varnishes, to rub them with water-repellent compounds, oil impregnations or wax mastics. Thanks to this, the useful layer of the parquet strip remains in good condition for a long time, because when coated with oil or wax, the parquet is not sanded, as when coated with varnish. (For example, the parquet flooring in the Ostankino Museum, which is a work of art, was preserved in good condition for more than 100 years thanks to a constantly renewed wax coating.)

Varnishes are distinguished by:

• - chemical composition: water-soluble, based on artificial oil resins (alkyd and urethane-alkyd), water-free polyurethane (DD, PUR varnishes), acid-curing or formaldehyde resin-based (SH varnishes), primers;
• - technological properties (for example, by method of application, viscosity, fluidity);
• - resistance to operational loads (i.e., resistance to mechanical loads, external environments, light) and service life;
• - qualities that affect the appearance (for example, the ability to paint wood, i.e., the degree of purification from turbid impurities, transparency);
• - gloss levels: matte, silky-matte, semi-matte, semi-gloss, glossy;
• - degree of environmental friendliness and recycling possibilities.

Water-soluble varnishes (water-based varnishes)

Water-soluble varnishes in most cases are dispersions. The dispersion is formed by small-sized droplets of the binder, evenly distributed throughout the volume of water. To achieve small droplet sizes and their uniform distribution, a high-speed stirrer is required. Water and a binder are poured into the container for preparing the dispersion, then when adding emulsifiers, all this is mixed at high speed until the mixture stops stratifying. After this, a small amount of solvent is added as a film-forming component. As a result, small droplets of binder are formed with adjacent particles of emulsifier and solvent, which are surrounded by water.

Due to the peculiarities of preparation, water-soluble varnishes dry differently than varnishes with a large amount of solvent. After applying the varnish, water first begins to evaporate. The film-forming component evaporates much more slowly, so its concentration in the dispersion constantly increases. When a certain threshold concentration value is reached, the film-forming component begins to dissolve the binder droplets (as they say, the binder droplets melt). Only after this does the film-forming component completely evaporate. The varnish film dries and hardens.

Water-soluble varnishes have good adhesive properties when applied to wooden surfaces and form a viscoelastic film. Based on the solvent content, they are divided into three categories: containing no solvents at all, containing solvents up to 5 and up to 15%.

When storing varnish, do not allow it to freeze. When applying it, the ambient temperature must be higher than the minimum permissible (15 C). Water-based varnish has the negative property of gluing the side joints of parquet films. Its adhesive properties can be reduced by using a primer, but cannot be completely eliminated. The positive properties of water-soluble varnishes include a very low concentration of solvent vapors in the air at the time of application.

The smell of such varnish in the room is felt to a lesser extent than when working with anhydrous chemicals, so water-based varnishes can be used in rooms where people who are not involved in this process are present at the time of coating.

These varnishes are non-flammable, they can be used where, according to construction conditions, the use of varnishes with solvents is impossible due to the risk of fire or explosion. The negative properties of water-based varnishes include their relatively low wear resistance compared to anhydrous polyurethane and acid-curing groups.

To increase their wear resistance, manufacturers are forced to add special additives to varnishes. Thus, the binder of water-based varnish for floors with normal loads can be polyurethane acrylic dispersion, for floors with increased loads - a modified polyurethane dispersion. In order for the polymerization reaction to proceed normally, they require relatively stable air humidity in the room (at least 50%), and this is not always possible to ensure, especially in winter, when central heating is on, and if there are no humidifiers in the room. At the time of application, water-based varnishes are sensitive to the microclimate of the room.

As a rule, water-based varnishes are demanding of the proprietary tool (rollers) and do not like it when they are applied with a swab, spatula, or brush.

Since these varnishes have a water residue, it is not advisable to coat them without a primer, especially on “nervous” species: beech, hornbeam, pine, merbau, etc. A primer is usually included with the varnish by the manufacturer. It helps protect the edges of the parquet planks from warping (to prevent the formation of torn edges on the parquet plank, increasing wood fibers). Professional modern water-based varnishes can be applied without prior priming with a special composition.

Varnishes based on artificial oil resins

The binder for varnishes based on artificial oil resins are alkyd resins, which are produced from natural raw materials, such as linseed or wood oil. These natural oils allow the varnish to penetrate deeply into the wood.

Polymerization reactions involving products obtained from natural raw materials are very complex. Simplifying these phenomena, we can imagine the process of drying the varnish layer as follows. After applying alkyd varnish, the solvent (white spirit) first begins to evaporate. Only after a significant portion of the solvent has evaporated does the chemical polymerization reaction begin. In this case, double chemical bonds in monomer molecules are broken, and the latter are combined into polymer chains that bind to each other and form a spatial network.

The polymerization reaction becomes possible because alkyd resin molecules have double chemical bonds. At the beginning of the reaction, the molecules are close to each other. When the solvent evaporates, oxygen from the air diffuses into the first liquid and then adhesive-like varnish film and is located between the alkyd resin molecules. As a result, the molecules begin to react with each other and increase in size.

The varnish film first becomes glue-like, and then - within 8-12 hours at a temperature of 20 C and a relative humidity of 50% - it finally hardens. Depending on how much solvent has evaporated, the thickness of the varnish layer also decreases. Urethane-alkyd and alkyd varnishes change the natural color of wood, “set fire” to the wood, emphasizing its texture and texture. The hardened varnish layer has the appearance of a horn-like film, which is elastic and at the same time non-slip.

There are alkyd varnishes with high and low concentrations of white spirit. Varnishes with low diluent concentrations are less toxic. The varnish “sets fire”, enhances the natural color of the wood, and emphasizes the texture of the fibers.

The positive properties of alkyd varnishes include the fact that they do not have adhesive properties. If, while applying varnish, it flows into the gap between the parquet planks, these planks will not stick to each other.

Alkyd varnishes are used mainly when there is no point in interfering with the natural process of changing the geometry of individual parquet planks in a room due to strong vibration loads, temperature changes and air humidity: when covering plank floors, end parquet, parquet laid on a heating screed (in underfloor heating systems ), “floating” floors, parquet made of “nervous” rocks that quickly respond to changes in air humidity in the room, floors in gyms, etc.

The disadvantages of alkyd and urethane-alkyd varnishes include their special sensitivity to drying conditions at elevated temperatures air (during central heating operation, lack of ventilation) and the treated surface (due to heating by sunlight, in underfloor heating systems, in the absence of curtains on the windows). Here you may encounter a significant slowdown in the drying process of the varnish. At the same time, a supply of fresh air must be provided, since oxygen is needed to cure the varnish. It is necessary to strictly ensure that one layer of varnish is not applied in quantities exceeding 120 g/m2. m. When applying excessively thick layers, a wrinkled surface may form. The wear resistance of oil-based varnishes is considered worse than that of water-based, water-free and acid-based polyurethane varnishes.

According to the degree of gloss, varnishes are matte, silky-matte, semi-matte, glossy.

Waterless polyurethane varnishes

These varnishes are characterized by exceptionally high adhesive properties to wood. At the same time, the varnish film becomes viscoelastic and has increased resistance to chemicals. Due to these chemical characteristics, polyurethane varnishes are used in areas subject to particularly heavy loads associated with intensive movement on the floor and chemical influences, such as drinks, cleaning agents.

There are one-component and two-component polyurethane varnishes, known as PUR and DD varnishes. These varnishes are divided into those containing and not containing aromatic compounds. They have different bases: acrylic, urethane, solvent-based.

First, like all varnishes, they dry physically, that is, due to the evaporation of the solvent. After this, chemical hardening begins, which occurs in the form of a polyaddition reaction. In this reaction, different molecules having reactive groups enter into a chemical bond with each other. In the case of polyurethane varnishes, the main component has a reactive OH group, and the curing component has an AMCO group. As a result of the polyaddition reaction, chain molecules appear in the polyurethane composition, structured with cross-links, which leads to the formation of a macromolecule.

At the time of coating and at the curing stage, the varnish film must be protected from contact with moisture; before starting work, it is necessary to check that the moisture content of the wood does not exceed 10-12%. If the hardener reacts with water, CO2 appears as a by-product, which, released in gaseous form, causes the formation of air bubbles in the film, bubbly foaming of the varnish layer, which leads to coating defects.

Depending on the base, a proprietary thinner is included with the waterless varnish. As a rule, these varnishes do not require primers, and the first layer of varnish does not raise wood fibers. Varnishes are not as capricious to the microclimate of the room as water-based and alkyd ones; they can preserve natural color wood or “set fire” to the surface. They have excellent elasticity, good light and heat resistance, they can be applied to coatings exposed to water and other external environments (furniture for bathrooms and kitchens, garden furniture, table tops, stairs, railings, interior doors. They strongly glue the side plank joints.

Acid curing varnishes

The most resistant group are acid-curing varnishes, or varnishes based on formaldehyde resins (SN-varnishes). They are recommended for use where special requirements are placed on the strength of coatings.

Acid-curing varnishes come in one- and two-component types. The latter are mixed with the hardener in a ratio of 10:1. The hardener contains an acid, such as hydrochloric acid, or organic acids. Immediately after mixing the varnish and hardener, the catalytic reaction begins. The hardener is needed as a catalyst that initiates the start of the reaction. After applying a layer of varnish, the solvent begins to evaporate from the resulting film. The binder molecules react with each other and, breaking down, release formaldehyde as a condensation product. Hence the name of the reaction - polycondensation reaction.

The technical advantages of acid-curing varnishes are their high adhesive properties and low sensitivity to temperature changes and indoor air humidity. These varnishes are unpretentious to tools: rollers, spatula, brushes, swabs, spray guns. Due to the use of urea and formaldehyde resins in the varnish, the wood is painted in light, natural tones. The varnish does not require a primer. Strongly glues the side joints of the planks.

Alcohols are always used as a solvent for these varnishes, for example standard (potato alcohol). You need to work with acid varnish in a well-ventilated area. At the time of its application, it is necessary to ensure that there are no people in the adjacent room who are not protected by respirators, since severe irritation of the mucous membranes is possible.

There is a misconception that formaldehyde released from acid-curing varnish remains in the room for a long time. In fact, the remaining solvent evaporates within three days when ventilated.

Primer varnishes

Deciding whether or not to use a primer is a very important decision. The use of primer varnish is necessary in the following cases:

• - to avoid water residue getting on the surface of the plank, which raises the wood fibers;
• - to achieve the desired color tone of the wood surface, to prevent “burning” the plank;
• - for isolating residues of special primers, oil impregnations and wax mastics;
• - to improve the adhesion of parquet varnishes to the flooring surface;
• - for the purpose of isolating natural oils of exotic wood species;
• - to reduce the adhesive effect of parquet varnish in the side joints of the planks.

If the primer varnish layer is not applied in such cases, then when applying the main varnish layer, adhesion may be disrupted and the varnish film may rupture at the joints of the planks. Before applying primer varnishes, it is necessary to check whether they are compatible with the base varnish and the parquet floor. The possibility of using soil for heavily worn areas of the floor should be checked experimentally each time.

A solution of nitrocellulose or polyvinyl chloride can be used as a base for primer varnishes. Under the water-based varnish, apply a water-based primer, the binders of which are compatible. Due to their thixotropic properties, primer varnishes make it possible to limit the penetration of parquet varnishes into the thickness of the wood. This allows you to reduce the consumption of parquet varnishes by square meter area. Drying of primer varnishes occurs mainly physically, due to the evaporation of the solvent. The duration of drying to the state of technological curing is significantly less than that of parquet varnish, and ranges from 15-20 minutes to 1-3 hours.

In addition to primers, there are glazing compounds (impregnating varnishes, stains). They are colorless and colored and are designed to protect parquet and other wooden surfaces from biological damage (rotting, mold, etc.) and atmospheric influences (temperature changes, humidity). Colorless primers allow you to preserve the natural color of wood for a long time, and are also used to lighten colored compounds and pre-impregnate wooden surfaces before applying parquet varnish.

Professional parquet varnishes may or may not require primers. The need to use primers depends on many factors, which the parquet floorer must take into account. In the product data sheet, many varnish manufacturers indicate the types of primers that are compatible with their varnishes.

It is advisable to use primer and varnish from the same manufacturer. This is due to different degrees of cleaning of varnishes. Thus, the use of a domestic primer under Swedish or German varnish can lead to a deterioration in the transparency of the coating as a whole, which will affect the final perception of the varnish layer.

The primer must be applied to a well-cleaned surface, evenly distributed along the fibers. It is not recommended to apply primer varnishes to floor surfaces covered with parquet varnish.