When repairing or building a house, one has to face the question: how to protect wood? Each owner seeks to obtain maximum quality at a low cost. The best solution to this problem would be ship varnish. You can already understand from the name of the material that it was originally used to cover the surface of various ships.
This waterproof varnish protects wood from the destructive effects of liquids. It is clear that if the product protects yachts that are constantly in the sea, then it will perfectly cope with the protection of walls, floors or ceilings. Due to its structure, the composition penetrates deep into the pores of the wood, thereby reliably protecting it for a long time. Yacht varnishes are available as aerosols. They are sold in banks with different denominations. It is more convenient to use aerosols, but they are sold only in small volumes.
Properties of yacht varnish
Shipborne varnish most often has an alkyd-urethane base. Due to this, it perfectly protects the surface from moisture, prevents mold and fungus. At the same time, the product has decorative properties. When applied in several layers, the varnish will smooth the surface, smooth out the roughness, making it smooth. The tree will get a pleasant shine. Thanks to various shades, ship varnish emphasizes the natural beauty of wood and favorably embellishes its natural color.
Types of varnish
There are several types of ship varnish that differ in production technology:
- Alkyd funds. They are made using organic solvents. This type is used only for outdoor use. This is the most common yacht varnish, the price of which is lower than other means. During its drying, harmful vapors of toluene and xylene are released, which enter the body during breathing. Therefore, varnish of this kind is strictly prohibited to use indoors. Even after several years, the evaporation of harmful substances will not stop.
- Urethane-alkyd products. They are more suitable for indoor use. The composition includes less organic solvents. Urethane plasticizers, which are part of the varnish, prevent the release of harmful chemicals. Their presence makes the tool more resistant to temperature extremes. This is especially true in homes where the "warm floor" system is equipped. By the way, among the representatives of this category can be distinguished lacquer ship "Tikkurila". To dry, it will take less time than other means. In addition, the substances included in its composition will slow down the process of yellowing of the wood that occurs under the influence of ultraviolet radiation. Some of its species give an additional glow to the surface in the dark. Its average price is from 500 and above rubles per 1 liter, depending on the variety.
- Acrylic yacht varnish is the most suitable option for indoor use. It is the most environmentally friendly. But the price is the highest. Such a tool, in fact, is not considered ship varnish. It is not used to cover the outer surface of a wooden hull. When purchasing such a varnish, you should be careful. There are cases where unscrupulous manufacturers sell acrylic products labeled “acrylate” for greater benefits.
Coverage Options
Using yacht varnish allows you to get a wooden surface in two types:
- Matte is a more practical option. After processing with such a tool, the tree is not covered with dust and less dirty.
- Glossy, which allows you to enjoy a beautiful, spectacular shine. But when touching such surfaces, ugly dirty “fingers” may remain.
Everyone decides for himself which varnish to choose. It all depends on your own preferences and taste of the homeowner.
Use of yacht varnish
The main area of application of yacht varnish is the treatment of wooden surfaces of ships. It is also used for household repairs: they cover furniture, doors, window frames, floors, frame houses in general. You can use such a varnish for plywood and lining. Acrylic yacht tool is perfect for applying to garden furniture made of wood. Varnishing will make it more durable, beautiful and interesting in color. At the same time, the frame house will give a uniform shade. It will protect the wood from the effects of aggressive environmental factors. In this case, you do not need to additionally purchase antiseptics and other protective impregnations.
Precautionary measures
The composition of yacht varnishes includes harmful components necessary to fulfill the tasks assigned to the tool. After application, toxic fumes may be released into the air. No matter what the manufacturers say, using ship lacquer to cover the floor is not the best option. If nevertheless you decide to use it, give preference to funds on an urethane-alkyd basis. Otherwise, after a few months you can feel the problems with the physical condition.
It is not recommended to use this product for furniture that comes in contact with food. For example, it is strictly forbidden to process bedside tables in the kitchen. It is better to use ship varnish on the street. This is due to the release of harmful substances. Using it at home can cause depression, nervous breakdowns. It is especially dangerous for children. Therefore, think about whether to use yacht varnish at home. The price of health is still higher.
Application Method
Using yacht varnish is easy. To do this, you first need to prepare the surface: clean it, remove residual grease and detergents. If the old layer lies on the wood, it must be sanded, sanded and wiped with a solution of white spirit and varnish (in a 5: 1 ratio). But that is not all.
Shipborne varnish is applied only to dry wood (with a moisture content of up to 20%). The surface is coated in several layers with maintaining the interval for drying. Moreover, the drying time with each layer should increase: between the first and second - from 4 to 6 hours, between the second and third - 24 hours. The third layer should dry for at least two days. If you use all the simple recommendations when using the varnish, the surface will last a long time.