Wood finishes are an essential part of any woodworking project. They transform raw wood into beautiful pieces that are protected from scratches, stains, and everyday wear and tear. Whether you're finishing a hardwood floor in Tucson, AZ, restoring a vintage cabinet, or building a custom table, choosing the right wood finish is crucial.
Learn about the most common types of wood finishes and how to select the ideal one for your needs.
What are wood finishes?
Hardwood finishes are protective coatings applied to hardwood surfaces (floors, furniture, etc.).
Why finish wood?
- Protection: Wood finishes create a protective barrier that prevents damage from spills, moisture, dirt, and UV rays.
- Beauty: Finishes highlight the natural grain patterns and colors of wood, enriching its aesthetic appeal.
- Durability: A high-quality finish can extend the lifespan of your wooden items and furniture.
- Ease of Cleaning: Sealed wood is easier to maintain and clean than unfinished surfaces.
Different types of wood finishes
Wood finishes fall into two main categories: penetrating finishes and surface finishes.
1. Penetrating Finishes
Danish Oil:
A blend of oils and varnishes that deeply soaks into the wood. It's a popular choice for its ease of application and the natural, warm look it imparts.
Tung Oil:
A natural oil that provides a matte finish and excellent water resistance. It takes a longer time to cure fully, but it's a favorite for food-safe surfaces like cutting boards.
Linseed Oil:
Traditionally used for wood finishing, linseed oil provides a soft, natural look. However, it yellows over time and requires frequent reapplication.
2. Surface finishes
Varnish:
A durable and protective finish that forms a hard film on the wood's surface. It comes in various sheens from matte to high-gloss.
Polyurethane:
A versatile, synthetic finish known for its exceptional durability and moisture resistance. Polyurethane is available in both oil-based and water-based formulas.
Lacquer:
Lacquer dries quickly and creates a hard, smooth, high-gloss finish. It's popular for furniture items but can be less forgiving during application than other finishes.
Shellac:
A natural, resin-based finish that offers a warm amber tone. It's easy to apply and repair, but it's not as durable as other surface finishes.
How to choose the right finish for your hardwood floors
Consider the following factors when selecting the best finish for your project:
- Desired Appearance: Do you want a high-gloss finish, a natural matte look, or something in between?
- Durability: How much wear and tear will the finished piece endure? Think about foot traffic, spills, and daily use.
- Interior vs. Exterior Use: Some finishes are better suited for outdoor projects due to their UV and moisture resistance.
- Ease of Application: Your skill level and available tools will factor into your decision. Some finishes are easier to apply than others.
Get the perfect wood floor finish with Flooring Direct in Tucson, AZ
If you're looking for quality flooring and expert advice on wood finishes in the Tucson area, Flooring Direct is your trusted source. We offer a wide selection of finishes to match your needs and our experienced team can help you find the perfect finish for your project.
We proudly serve Tucson, AZ, Marana, AZ, Oro Valley, AZ, Casas Adobes, AZ, and Catalina Foothills, AZ. With over 30 years of experience and zero complaints against our license, you can count on our reliability. Our A+ Better Business Bureau rating for the past 20 years speaks to our commitment to customer satisfaction.
Visit our showroom or contact us today to discover the beautiful world of wood finishes!
