If you are a woodworking enthusiast, you must have come across polyurethane as one of the most commonly used wood finishes.
But what makes it so popular? What advantages does it provide? And are there any disadvantages that you need to know of?
Polyurethane wood finish provides various advantages like durability, water resistance, UV protection, and compatibility, which makes it suitable for various applications ranging from wooden floorings to outdoor furniture. However, it also has some disadvantages like long drying time, emission of fumes, strong odor, and difficulty applying.
As woodworkers with several years of experience working with polyurethane for hundreds of woodworking projects, here’s our take on what’s good and bad about polyurethane.
Polyurethane wood finish provides several advantages, making it one of the most popular choices for protecting and enhancing the natural beauty of wood.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Provides a durable finish | Long drying time |
| Improves water resistance | Emits fumes and organic compounds |
| Improves surface finish | Difficult to apply |
| Compatible with various finishes | Difficult to repair |
| Protection against UV radiations | Has a strong odor |
One of the primary advantages of using polyurethane wood finish is that it provides a durable finish that can withstand wear and tear.
Polyurethane is a synthetic polymer that creates a hard, protective coating over wood surfaces.
This prevents scratches, dents, and other types of damage that can occur from everyday use.
You can even apply additional coats and sand between subsequent coats for a durable matt finish.
Another advantage of using a polyurethane wood finish is that it improves water resistance.
This is particularly important for wood surfaces that are frequently exposed to moisture, such as decks, patios, and outdoor furniture.
Polyurethane wood finish creates a barrier that helps to prevent water from penetrating the wood, which can lead to warping, cracking, and other types of damage.
For better protection, use oil-based polyurethane as it offers more resistance than water-based polyurethane.
Polyurethane wood finish also improves the surface finish of wood by providing a smooth, glossy appearance.
This can enhance the natural beauty of the wood and give it a professional, high-quality look.
Unlike other finishes, polyurethane does not darken the wood and helps to maintain its natural beauty while enhancing its grain.
Polyurethane wood finish is compatible with various finishes, such as stain or paint, which allows for customization and personalization of the wood surface.
It can also be applied over other finishes to create a more durable protective layer.
Another advantage of polyurethane wood finish is that it provides protection against UV radiation.
Exposure to UV radiation can cause wood to fade or discolor over time.
If you plan to use poly on an outdoor project, check for a polyurethane finish that consists of a UV blocking agent.
Polyurethane wood finish provides excellent scratch resistance, making it ideal for high-traffic areas or items that are frequently used.
As a result, it is a preferable choice for items such as flooring, tabletops, or other furniture that may be subject to wear and tear.
While there are many advantages to using polyurethane wood finish, there are also some disadvantages to consider.
Polyurethane wood finish has a long drying time, which means that it can take several hours or even days to dry completely.
This can be a problem if you need to use the wood surface soon after applying the finish.
Also, the long drying time means that dust and other particles can settle on the surface, resulting in a rough or uneven finish.
Polyurethane wood finish produces harmful fumes during the application and drying process.
These fumes can be hazardous to your health if you inhale them, causing respiratory problems and other health issues.
Wear protective gear, such as a respirator, when applying polyurethane wood finish and ensure the workspace is well-ventilated.
Polyurethane wood finish can be difficult to apply correctly, especially for those who are not experienced with the process.
It requires careful attention to detail and the use of specialized tools, such as a brush or roller, to ensure an even and smooth finish.
Additionally, it can be challenging to apply a polyurethane wood finish without leaving brush marks or other imperfections.
Polyurethane wood finish is also difficult to repair if it is damaged.
Unlike other finishes, such as shellac or lacquer, polyurethane wood finish cannot be easily touched up or repaired without completely removing and reapplying the finish.
This can be time-consuming, and re-coating the entire workpiece can be significantly costly.
Polyurethane wood finish has a strong odor that can be unpleasant and can linger for several days after application.
This can be a problem if you are sensitive to odors or if you need to use the space where the finish has been applied soon after application.
Polyurethane wood finish is a popular choice for furniture, particularly for pieces that will be used frequently, such as tables and chairs.
It provides a durable and water-resistant finish that can protect the wood surface from scratches, stains, and other damage.
Polyurethane wood finish is also a popular choice for hardwood flooring.
It provides a durable and long-lasting finish that can protect the wood surface from wear and tear, moisture, and other types of damage.
Additionally, a polyurethane wood finish can enhance the natural beauty of hardwood flooring and give it a glossy, attractive finish.
Polyurethane wood finish is often used for cabinetry, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms.
It provides a water-resistant finish that can protect the wood surface from moisture and other types of damage.
Polyurethane finish is also a popular choice for doors and trims as it provides a durable and long-lasting finish that can protect the wood surface from scratches, stains, and other types of damage.
Although there are several other polyurethane alternatives, the ability of a polyurethane finish to resist scratches makes it ideal for households with kids and pets.
Polyurethane is often used for musical instruments, particularly guitars, and other stringed instruments.
It provides a durable and protective finish that can help to preserve the sound quality and appearance of the instrument.
Polyurethane can also be used for outdoor projects, such as decks, fences, and outdoor furniture.
It provides a durable and weather-resistant finish that can protect the wooden surface from moisture, UV radiation, and other types of damage.
While polyurethane wood finish is a popular choice for protecting and enhancing wood surfaces, there are also several alternatives that may be more suitable for certain projects or applications.
Epoxy is a resin that hardens upon drying and has excellent durability.
It is more durable than polyurethane, but takes longer to dry and is difficult to apply.
Epoxy is also suitable for outdoor applications, as it is resistant to moisture and UV radiation.
Lacquer is a clear, durable finish that makes wood look glossy and natural.
It is particularly suitable for projects like furniture and cabinetry.
Tung oil is a natural oil that is often used as a wood finish.
It provides a durable and water-resistant finish that can enhance the natural beauty of wood and is particularly suitable for outdoor applications.
Tung oil is also environmentally friendly and non-toxic, making it a popular choice for eco-friendly projects.
Wax is another natural finish that makes wood look soft and smooth.
It is easy to apply and produces a natural-looking finish that does not require sanding or buffing.
Wax is a good choice for interior wood, but needs frequent reapplication.
Shellac is a natural resin that is often used as a wood finish.
It provides a hard and glossy finish that can enhance the natural beauty of wood and is particularly suitable for interior wood surfaces such as furniture, cabinetry, and trim.
However, shellac is not as durable as polyurethane wood finish and may require more frequent reapplication.
Polyurethane wood finish can be safe to use as long as you follow proper safety precautions, such as working in a well-ventilated area and wearing appropriate personal protective equipment.
Polyurethane can be applied over some other finishes, such as lacquer or shellac, but it may not adhere properly to other finishes, such as wax.
Polyurethane wood finish can be cleaned with a mild soap and water solution or a specialized wood cleaner. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can damage the finish.
