How To Coat And Seal Wood
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Always take the time to seal wood projects after you have finished with them. Anything that is built from wood should have a sealer or a coating of some kind to protect it from the elements and wear.
Types of Wood Coatings
Coatings are used to cover, or penetrate, the wood in order to keep it protected from rain, heat, ice, snow, or extreme cold.
•Paint - The most common form of covering wood, and protecting it from the elements, is by using paint. Paint just sits on the wood for form a coating instead of penetrating the wood.
•Wax - If you have something that is artistic in nature, or fine wood furniture, wax is a great covering that is applied in several coats.
•Oils - Penetrate the wood the deepest and comes in a wide variety of pigments, tints, and grades.
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Types of Wood Coatings
Coatings are used to cover, or penetrate, the wood in order to keep it protected from rain, heat, ice, snow, or extreme cold.
•Paint - The most common form of covering wood, and protecting it from the elements, is by using paint. Paint just sits on the wood for form a coating instead of penetrating the wood.
•Wax - If you have something that is artistic in nature, or fine wood furniture, wax is a great covering that is applied in several coats.
•Oils - Penetrate the wood the deepest and comes in a wide variety of pigments, tints, and grades.
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Step 1 - Prepare Area
The most important step before you seal wood and apply a coating of some kind is to prepare the area. Use a cleaner and wash the area down. Use sand paper and give the wood project a thorough sanding.
This will open the pores of the wood so that the sealer will adhere, and can penetrate, into the wood much better.
Step 2 - Apply Stain or Paint
Using a brush you can now apply several coats of paint or stain. Allow the first coat to dry to a "tacky" consistency before applying the second coat.
Some stains will need you to apply it with a cheesecloth, or some other soft cloth. It is to be wiped on with consistent uniformity in color and depth.
Step 3 - Apply Sealer
Once the paint, or stain, has had time to dry completely, use a different brush and begin applying the wood sealer.
Dip the brush into the sealant and wipe off the excess. Start at the center of the wood and brush outward and then back to the original starting point with the opposite side of the brush. Continue in this manner until the entire wood project is coated. Another coat may be necessary.
Step 4 - Considerations
When applying the sealant, keep in mind that this is the part of the wood that can be touched. A rough finish on a piece of fine furniture will not add to the value of the piece. Keep your brush strokes to a minimum and always keep excess sealer off the brush.
Courtesy of our friends at "doityourself.com"
