The finish can completely change the character of a piece of wood. Leave the surface natural, and you see more of its texture and character. Add a coating, and you can create anything from a subtle protective layer to an exceptionally smooth, glossy surface.
Polyester coating is used when that latter kind of finish is desired. It can give wood that glossy finish that feels smooth, polished and almost glass-like to the touch.
So, what exactly is happening beneath that glossy surface? Let’s take a closer look at polyester coating and how it works on wood.
What Is Polyester Coating?
The polyester coating is a resin-based wood coating for creating a smooth and glossy surface. After application, it becomes a solid layer on top of wood which enhances its appearance and protects it.
How Does Polyester Coating Work on Wood?
So, you know what polyester coating is. But what actually happens when it goes onto a wooden surface?
The coating is applied to properly prepared wood, where it spreads across the surface and begins to cure. As it cures, the liquid coating turns into a hard, solid layer over the wood.
This layer can be built up to create the smooth, deep finish polyester coatings are known for. The surface can then be sanded and polished, depending on the product and the finish you want.
How Is Polyester Coating Applied to Wood?
So, what does the process actually look like when you’re using polyester coating on wood? It’s not simply a matter of applying the coating and waiting for it to dry. The surface underneath and the finishing steps afterwards both matter.
1. Prepare the wood
First, it is important to make sure that the wood surface is properly sanded and cleaned, since any dust or uneven surface will influence the outcome.
2. Apply the coating
After preparation, the polyester coating is applied following the instructions for the specific product. You need to apply the coating evenly across the whole surface so that some areas don’t end up thicker or thinner than others.
3. Let it cure
After application, the coating requires some time to be cured and hardened. The curing time differs depending on the type of the product and its application conditions.
4. Sand and polish
Once the coating is sufficiently cured, it can be sanded and polished. This is what ensures the glossy and polished finish typical for the polyester coating.
Where Is Polyester Coating Used on Wood?
Now that you know how polyester coating is applied, let’s dive into when and where it is used. Its application is common:
- In furniture where you need a smooth, glossy and polished finish
- On decorative wall panels where you require a smooth finish
- On cabinets and doors when the high-gloss finish is an integral part of the design
- On table tops and other surfaces of wood where a hard and thick finish is required
- It is especially useful if you wish for the finishing to stand out in the final product, where the color of the material appears richer.
Why Choose Polyester Coating for Wood?
So, why would you choose polyester coating over another wood finish? A few things make it stand out:
- High-gloss finish: It gives wood have a deep, smooth and glossy appearance.
- Durable surface: Once it has cured, it gives a very hard surface which is resistant to wear and tear.
- High build: It can build up a thicker coating layer, which helps create a more substantial finish.
- Good surface coverage: It covers up small holes and imperfections in the wood.
- Easy to polish: After curing it can be both sanded and polished to get the level of smoothness and gloss you desire.
Choosing the Right Polyester Coating for Wood
A good wood finish starts with choosing the right coating for the job.
For a smooth, hard and glossy surface, polyester coating can be a great choice. It can give furniture a polished look and also form a protective layer on it.
If you’re still deciding on a finish, Woodver’s range of wood coatings gives you plenty of options to explore.
