Hey everyone, welcome back to my channel! Today’s video is all about varnish in cans – those handy little spray cans that make it super easy to give your furniture, walls, or even crafts a beautiful, protective finish.
Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Isn’t all varnish the same?” Well, not exactly. There are actually quite a few different types of varnish available in cans, each with its own unique properties and benefits. In this video, I’m going to break down the three main types of varnish you’ll find in cans: water-based, oil-based, and polyurethane.
We’ll talk about the pros and cons of each type, so you can choose the best one for your project. I’ll also share some tips and tricks for using varnish in cans, so you can achieve a flawless finish every time.
So, whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or just starting out, this video is for you. Let’s get started!
Polyurethane is a versatile varnish that offers excellent durability, scratch resistance, and UV protection. It’s a popular choice for both indoor and outdoor applications, including furniture, floors, and decks. Polyurethane can be applied with a brush, roller, or spray gun, and it dries to a clear, hard finish.
Here are some of the key features of polyurethane varnish:
- Durability: Polyurethane is one of the most durable varnishes available, making it ideal for high-traffic areas.
- Scratch resistance: Polyurethane is highly scratch-resistant, which helps to protect your furniture and floors from damage.
- UV protection: Polyurethane contains UV inhibitors that help to protect your surfaces from fading and sun damage.
- Water resistance: Polyurethane is water-resistant, making it a good choice for use in kitchens and bathrooms.
- Chemical resistance: Polyurethane is resistant to many chemicals, including household cleaners and solvents.
- Easy to apply: Polyurethane is relatively easy to apply, even for beginners.
However, there are also some downsides to using polyurethane varnish:
- Slow drying time: Polyurethane can take several hours to dry, and it may take up to a week to fully cure.
- Strong odor: Polyurethane has a strong odor that can be bothersome to some people.
- Yellowing: Some types of polyurethane can yellow over time, especially if they are exposed to sunlight.
Acrylic varnish is a water-based varnish that is known for its durability and ease of use. It’s a good choice for both indoor and outdoor applications, and it can be applied with a brush, roller, or spray gun. Acrylic varnish dries to a clear, hard finish that is resistant to scratches, UV rays, and water.
Here are some of the key features of acrylic varnish:
- Durability: Acrylic varnish is a durable varnish that can withstand wear and tear.
- Scratch resistance: Acrylic varnish is highly scratch-resistant, which helps to protect your surfaces from damage.
- UV protection: Acrylic varnish contains UV inhibitors that help to protect your surfaces from fading and sun damage.
- Water resistance: Acrylic varnish is water-resistant, making it a good choice for use in kitchens and bathrooms.
- Easy to apply: Acrylic varnish is water-based, so it’s easy to clean up and apply.
- Fast drying time: Acrylic varnish dries quickly, typically within a few hours.
- Low odor: Acrylic varnish has a low odor, making it a good choice for people who are sensitive to smells.
However, there are also some downsides to using acrylic varnish:
- Not as durable as polyurethane: Acrylic varnish is not as durable as polyurethane, so it may not be the best choice for high-traffic areas.
- Can be more expensive: Acrylic varnish can be more expensive than polyurethane varnish.
Nitrocellulose varnish is a solvent-based varnish that is known for its fast drying time and high gloss finish. It’s a good choice for indoor applications, such as furniture and cabinets. Nitrocellulose varnish can be applied with a brush, roller, or spray gun.
Here are some of the key features of nitrocellulose varnish:
- Fast drying time: Nitrocellulose varnish dries very quickly, typically within 30 minutes.
- High gloss finish: Nitrocellulose varnish produces a high gloss finish that is very attractive.
- Durable: Nitrocellulose varnish is a durable varnish that can withstand wear and tear.
- Easy to apply: Nitrocellulose varnish is relatively easy to apply, even for beginners.
However, there are also some downsides to using nitrocellulose varnish:
- Strong odor: Nitrocellulose varnish has a strong odor that can be bothersome to some people.
- Flammable: Nitrocellulose varnish is flammable, so it should be used with caution.
- Not as water-resistant as other varnishes: Nitrocellulose varnish is not as water-resistant as other varnishes, so it’s not a good choice for use in kitchens or bathrooms.
Varnish in cans has several disadvantages. First, it can be difficult to apply evenly, and it can leave streaks or brush marks. Second, it can be slow to dry, and it can be easily damaged by water or other liquids. Finally, it can be expensive, especially if you need to buy a large amount of it.
Varnish in cans is used for a variety of purposes, including:
- Protecting wood furniture and floors
- Sealing concrete and other porous surfaces
- Creating a glossy finish on painted surfaces
- Adding a protective layer to metal objects
The choice between glossy and matte varnish depends on the desired finish. Glossy varnish will give a high-shine finish, while matte varnish will give a more subdued finish.
Transparent varnish will not change the color of the surface it is applied to, while colored varnish will add a tint of color. Colored varnish can be used to change the color of a surface or to add a decorative touch.