Do you know what lasur and varnish are, and how they differ? Like teak oil, they are paint treatments for wood. Although they perform a similar function, they are not the same or have the same properties. Therefore, each product is more recommended in different situations. Below, we explain it in detail.
Lasur versus varnish
Because they are comparable products, customers are often hesitant to choose lasures or varnishes for the finishing of their wooden furniture.
The main difference lies in where you should apply each. Take a good look:
- Lasures are used for most wooden furniture located outdoors.
- Varnishes are applied to wooden furniture located indoors.
Main characteristics of lasures
They are compounds made with elastic resins that dissolve in water or some type of solvent. They have the ability to get into the wood, so they do not form an outer insulating film.
Consequently, after application, the open pore characteristic of these surfaces does not disappear. Thus, woodis able to breathe and release water vapor. Thanks to this, it resists moisture much better and prevents the proliferation of bacteria and fungi derived from it.
That is, unlike what a varnish does, it does not form a film: the layer made is porous.
Another attribute that you can appreciate is that they have the density very similar to that of water. Because of this low viscosity, they are able to go very deep into the wood. Thus, they protect and nourish it from within.
When you apply lasures and time goes by, the usual erosion does not occur irregularly. It is, in fact, uniform. In this way, the unsightly chipping and peeling typical of varnishes never appear if you have applied this product well.
Other additional benefits
Do you want to know another advantage? These treatments have fungicidal ingredients that fight xylophagous insects. In addition, they are a great resource against termites.
In addition, they have a great elasticity, because they are very flexible products. When extreme temperatures produce dilation and contraction effects, furniture adapts much better.
Aesthetically, they enhance the beauty of wood. Its veins are seen more and acquire striking chromatic nuances. The effect they produce is waxy and more attractive than that of the so-called outdoor oils.
These finishing products on wood, logically, are mainly used in garden furniture. You can apply them with a gun, roller or brush, depending on the circumstances. They are marketed in three finishing options: satin, glossy and matte. In addition, there are water or solvent based.
Considering all their properties, it is not surprising that they are also used in other porous materials. For example, cement, mud, concrete and stone.
Varnish is different
Varnishes lack those specific characteristics of lasures. They do not leave the pore open that moisture requires, nor are they poorly viscous or adapt to climatic adversities or have fungicidal and insecticidal properties.
They close the pore. Nothing goes inside the characteristic fibers of wood. They favor, thus, periodic cleaning and prevent leakage of oil stains or other products. Also, dust and dirt in general will not be embedded in your furniture.
The main aesthetic virtue of varnishes is that they increase the natural enjoyment of the veins and enhance the original color of the wood. They are sold, practically, in all colors and finishes.
You should know that there are some special varnishes for outdoors. For example, marines and outdoor specials. They resist the sun and humidity better, but you will have to renew them every equis time, much earlier than what happens with lasures.
Quick tips for applying lasures
Let's end this article with some practical tips for applying these products. Follow them and you will get much more striking, durable and careful finishes:
- Always apply it on clean woods and free of previous paints or varnishes. There should also be no grease, fungus, dust or moisture. Use a stripper to remove previous hands from varnish or paint. Then, wash, dry and sand.
- Sand gently in the direction of the veins to ensure cleanliness.
- Dilute the product in the first hand, but not in the following ones. Take advantage of its consistency for the second and third. Sometimes, depending on the surface, you will have to give more layers.
- Choose ultraviolet anti-radiation lasures if the object is going to be exposed to the sun directly.
- It shortens maintenance cycles if you use it in areas close to the sea and the beach. The erosion of sand and salt force us to do so.
At this point, you don't just know the difference between lasur and varnish. You are also in a position to know where and how to use them. Consult with us if you have any questions.