The Finish
In our modern sprayshop facilities your furniture is stained to the colour of your choice (we have dozens to choose from) before being either hand-waxed or given two or more coats of a hard-wearing malamine lacquer in your choice of sheen.
The single question we are most frequently asked is:
‘Which is best - wax or lacquer?’
This is not an easy question to answer - but here’s my best effort!!
Wax
Waxed pine furniture looks old even when brand new. 2 or 3 coats of wax polish are applied by hand and buffed up to give a nice sheen. A fresh coat of wax every 6-12 months will keep your furniture looking great. Any slight knocks or scratches suffered by your furniture will be easily disguised by a little wax rubbed in.
The main worry people have about waxed furniture is marks from teacups, wine glasses etc. A wax finish does not give the timber full protection from moisture so if spillages are not wiped off immediately a mark can remain. With a little care, though, and the use of mats and tablecloths, the problem can be minimised. Ultimately, any damage to a waxed finish is fairly easy to remedy.
Our advice is - if the look of a wax finish is what you like, then choose a wax finish and accept that some maintenance will probably be necessary. There is no way of replicating the look of a wax finish using lacquer!
Lacquer
A lacquered finish is basically a plastic based coating applied to the furniture by spray-gun. The finish can either be very glossy, completely matt, or anywhere in between depending on choice.
The advantage of a lacquered finish is that it completely seals the wood and so is water-resistant. Spillages and marks can simply be wiped off with a cloth.
Because pine is a soft wood, however, a lacquered finish will not give complete protection against dents and scratches. Under heavy use, lacquered pine furniture can start to look a little shabby after time necessitating a return to the workshop and a re-spray.
In the end, it all boils down to the the look that you prefer - if the lacquered look is for you, then choose that, but don’t imagine that it renders your furniture indistructable! As much care is needed as with a wax finish - and in the event of accidents hospitalisation is normally required!
Painted Finishes
We are also able to finish your furniture in a variety of painted finishes and effects. Please discuss your requirements with Duncan when you visit - if you have definite ideas please bring with you pictures or samples.
Please be aware that the knots in pine will always show through any painted finish - to an increasing degree over time.