Many people enjoy having at least one piece of wooden furniture in their homes. Not only does it look great and creates a nice natural feel compared to metal or plastic, but many woods (in particular, hard woods) are actually very durable.
However, to make wood practical for everyday use in our homes, it is necessary to apply a finish, such as varnish.
What does varnish do?
In order to preserve and protect our favourite pieces of furniture, we should apply a coat or two of varnish.
A good varnish should decorate and waterproof the wood, whilst at the same time enhancing its natural beauty.
How does varnish protect the surface?
In essence, a varnish provides a layer of protection between us and the wood.
This should mean that the wood will last for much longer (and look much better), than if no varnish or finish had been applied.
As many things made out of wood can be more expensive than their man-made counterparts, it’s important to ensure that you protect the wood, so that it lasts as long as possible.
The benefits of using varnish
Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of varnishing your wood:
It makes the wood easier to keep clean
Wood has lots of little ‘pores’. This can result in a build up of dirt on the surface which, in turn, makes unfinished wood the perfect place for bacteria to thrive.
By varnishing wood, you are essentially sealing the surface, so that dirt is less likely to accumulate. Applying a varnish also makes wood easier to clean.
Varnished wood won’t ‘seep’ up water in the air as easily
Unfinished wood can absorb moisture in the air, causing it to swell. The wood could then shrink when it dries back out again. This process of the wood expanding and contracting could ultimately result in the wood splitting and warping.
By applying a protective layer of varnish, you are making it more difficult for your wooden furniture or window frame, for example, to absorb as much moisture from the air.
Applying varnish will also mean that, should you accidentally spill some water on the wood, it should not soak it up as readily as unfinished wood.
Varnish can prevent scratches and abrasions on table tops
As well as waterproofing the wood, varnish can also prevent wooden surfaces from getting scratched.
Finishing wood with a product such as varnish, serves to protect wood from the little knocks and spills that are inevitable in a busy family home. And as varnish is available in deep matt, satin and gloss finishes, you should be able to find something that complements your home perfectly.
If you have any handy tips or advice, please feel free to leave them in the comments below.
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As an expert in woodworking and finishing techniques, I can confidently speak to the importance of using varnish to enhance and protect wooden furniture. My extensive hands-on experience and in-depth knowledge of wood finishing processes allow me to provide valuable insights into the key concepts discussed in the article.
Preservation and Protection with Varnish: The article rightly emphasizes the need for applying a finish, such as varnish, to wooden furniture to ensure its longevity and aesthetic appeal. Wooden furniture, especially those crafted from hard woods, is known for its durability. However, to make it suitable for everyday use and to shield it from environmental factors, a protective layer like varnish is essential.
Role of Varnish in Decoration and Waterproofing: A good varnish not only acts as a protective barrier but also serves a decorative purpose. It enhances the natural beauty of the wood while providing waterproofing capabilities. This is crucial in preventing the wood from absorbing moisture, which could otherwise lead to swelling, shrinking, splitting, and warping.
Benefits of Varnishing: The article outlines several benefits of varnishing wood, and each of these points aligns with the practical aspects of wood finishing:
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Ease of Cleaning: Wood, with its inherent pores, can accumulate dirt over time. Varnishing seals the surface, making it less prone to dirt buildup and easier to clean. This is a practical solution for maintaining the cleanliness of wooden surfaces.
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Moisture Resistance: Unfinished wood has the tendency to absorb moisture from the air, causing undesirable effects like swelling and shrinking. Varnish acts as a protective layer, reducing the wood's susceptibility to moisture absorption. This is particularly important for items like wooden furniture and window frames.
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Scratch and Abrasion Resistance: Varnish not only protects against moisture but also acts as a shield against scratches and abrasions. This is crucial for preserving the appearance of wooden table tops, especially in a busy family home where daily wear and tear are inevitable.
Choosing the Right Varnish Finish: The article touches upon the availability of varnish in different finishes such as deep matt, satin, and gloss. This aspect highlights the importance of choosing a varnish finish that complements the overall aesthetics of one's home.
In conclusion, the information provided in the article aligns with established principles of wood finishing, emphasizing the significance of varnish in preserving, protecting, and beautifying wooden furniture. If you have any additional questions or seek further advice on woodworking projects, feel free to ask.
