Shellac Vs Water Based Poly For Floors

Varnish whether it contains alkyd or polyurethane resin or a combination is an example of a curing finish.

Shellac vs water based poly for floors.

There s an option for everyone. 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. The finish can be from a gloss down to flat. Shellac floors shouldn t be mopped with any water based or water mixed product including plain soap and water.

In contrast to shellac polyurethane is not an organic substance. It can either be oil based or water based. It was originally marketed as a no wax floor finish meaning that it was durable enough to resist scratches without being waxed as was necessary with shellac. 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. Diyers have the choice of a water or oil based. Through the years polyurethane became the most popular wiped and brushed finish for everything. Water softens shellac and can damage the wood underneath.

It is a type of plastic essentially plastic in a liquid form that can be applied to a surface. Varnish vs lacquer vs polyurethane vs shellac for aspiring woodworkers choosing the right finish can seemingly be a difficult task at least at first. Polyurethane is like a liquid plastic often either a pure synthetic plastic or a blend with resin. It s available in either oil based or water based varieties.

Water based is faster to cure and less toxic when applying but also slightly less durable than oil based. Water based polyurethane dry faster so there is a lower chance of bugs and dust getting stuck in it. It s good for bookcases desks side tables and picture frames anything that won t be exposed to extremes. Oil based polyurethane became available.

Polyurethane is naturally glossy so the manufacturers add a flattening paste to reduce the gloss. It also has the ability to resist environmental harshness. As with shellac water based polyurethane won t hold up well to heat and chemicals. However it can be difficult to repair when damaged.