Betterwood » Advice » Wood Panels » Painting
Varnishes seal the wood surface and ensure that neither dirt nor water can penetrate the wood. From an aesthetic point of view, the result is a glossy surface with the wood pattern shining through.
Lacquering requires more work: The wood has to be sanded before it can be varnished. Several sanding and varnishing passes may be necessary. If signs of use, such as small dents, appear after some time, the entire panel should be sanded again and repainted. Another disadvantage is that the breathability of wood as a natural product is completely suppressed and the lacquers are often not environmentally friendly.
The substrate should be dust-free and, in the case of untreated wood, sanded with 120 grit. If there are other layers of paint on the wood, or if the surface is uneven, coarser-grained sandpaper should be used. The surface is then cleaned with a vacuum cleaner and a damp cloth.
Once the surface is completely dust-free and dry, painting can begin. The manufacturer’s instructions must be observed, particularly with regard to drying time.
Larger surfaces are painted evenly with a paint roller. Brushes can be used for individual areas. After a drying time of usually 24 hours, a further coat of varnish can be applied. It is also possible to apply primers before the first coat of paint or sealing coats to further increase resistance. However, one or two coats of varnish are usually sufficient – although it always depends on the desired use.
