This is because the most popular types of topcoats varnish lacquer polyurethane and shellac have advantages and disadvantages which makes them best suited for particular types of settings.
Shellac vs polyurethane for floors.
Shellac naturally contains a small percentage of wax but liquid dewaxed shellac often referred to as universal sealer is typically used on wood floors.
As with shellac water based polyurethane won t hold up well to heat and chemicals.
Floors where you want a natural product that doesn t emit a lot of vocs and dries quickly.
Once the solvent dissolves the resin undergoes a chemical reaction that can t be.
Minwax polycrylic is an example of a fortified water based polyurethane than can stand up a bit better to rough conditions.
It s good for bookcases desks side tables and picture frames anything that won t be exposed to extremes.
Varnish whether it contains alkyd or polyurethane resin or a combination is an example of a curing finish.
There is no one perfect finish for all projects.
Varnish vs lacquer vs polyurethane vs shellac for aspiring woodworkers choosing the right finish can seemingly be a difficult task at least at first.
Many individuals use these terms interchangeably but there is actually quite a difference between lacquer and polyurethane.
Floors cabinets and some furniture need the protection of varnish.
Most floors require two to three coats of polyurethane for adequate protection.
Shellac has been used as a coating for thousands of years.
When applying polyurethane finish allow the first coat to dry overnight then sand it lightly with 220 grit sandpaper.
In the wood flooring industry it was and remains most often used as a sealer coat.
Very popular prior to the introduction of polyurethane floor sealers in the 1960s.
Can be well protected with lacquer shellac or an oil varnish blend.
You can choose from polyurethane lacquer shellac or even varnish.
Polyurethane durability can help you to make a wise choice when it comes to finishing your latest project.