Why Finish Wood?

Why bother with wood finishing, you ask? It’s extra steps, smelly and messy, and all sorts of things can go wrong. Here are three compelling reasons:

  1. Sanitation: Wood, being porous, can accumulate dirt and grime, posing health risks. A finish seals the surface, making it less prone to soiling and easier to clean.

  2. Stabilization: Wood responds to moisture changes, leading to dimensional shifts and stresses that cause issues like splitting and warping. While a finish won't entirely prevent these issues, it slows them down, reducing stress and stabilizing the wood.

  3. Decoration: The possibilities for decorating wood are vast, falling into three main categories: color, texture, and sheen. Coloring options include bleaching, staining, and painting, while finishes like oil or wax preserve natural textures. To alter texture, you can use wood filler or multiple coats of finish. Sheen refers to the glossiness of the finish, offering further customization.

Have a cherished piece of furniture in need of refinishing? When you’re ready to begin your refinishing project, you can request an estimate.

Photo credit: Douglas Bagg

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Choosing the Right Finish for Your Project