Wood Paints and Varnishes – What You Need to Know

The first and perhaps most widespread type of wood coating is varnish. 

Water-based varnishes are considered more user-friendly. Polyurethane varnishes are more durable and resistant to all kinds of stress. Essentially, varnishes intended for furniture fall into these categories. 

Varnishes are transparent or slightly tinted finishing materials applied to protect the wood and highlight its natural look. They can also provide impregnation [Wood Class varnish by KRAFT Paints], available in shades such as Pine, Walnut, Oregon, Oak, Mahogany, etc. 

A key advantage of surface varnishes is their high resistance since they form a hard film that protects against moisture, scratches, and aging. Especially polyurethane varnishes, like KRAFT Paints’ Wood Style Aqua, are ideal for surfaces exposed to weather conditions. 

However, varnishes limit breathability, and continuous sun exposure may cause possible alterations. During renovations, sanding and complete removal of the old layer is required before re-application. Generally, varnishes are suitable for indoor use, furniture, and countertops, while for outdoor surfaces they should be combined with UV filters and additives. 

A solution recommended for outdoor use with high UV resistance is Wood Shield Color Based by KRAFT Paints, a bio-based water polyurethane impregnation varnish. 

Enamel undercoat (velatoura) acts as a primer, especially when preparing wooden surfaces before final painting with enamel. It is a mild formula substrate (similar to paint, but not the same), easy to apply and quick-drying, with no strong odor—making it ideal for indoor use (cabinets, doors, windows), even with limited ventilation. 

Its main function is to stabilize the wood surface, reduce absorbency, and ensure better adhesion of the final coat. Usually, it has a white or off-white shade. It is eco-friendly, compatible with water-based paints, and can be cleaned easily with water. 

It is recommended mainly for wooden furniture, cabinets, doors, or frames in dry, enclosed spaces. On the other hand, it does not protect against moisture or UV rays and is not suitable as a final finish. 

Enamel paint is widely used on wood when a durable, fully covering, and aesthetically seamless result is desired. It can be glossy, satin, or matte, comes in many shades, and depending on its composition, it can be solvent-based or water-based enamel. 

It creates a seamless, smooth, hard surface, resistant to wear, moisture, and daily use, and can be cleaned easily with a damp cloth. This makes Enamel Paint an ideal choice for doors, kitchen cabinets, or children’s furniture, where cleanliness and durability are priorities. 

• The type of paint/varnish chosen for painting wood is not a simple or standard process when it comes to deciding which product to use. Sometimes the choice is guided by necessity, other times by the wood itself, and other times by the design. In any case, painting wooden furniture, decorative items, etc. can involve several possible options, and for that reason, it might be a good idea to consult a specialist.
• Of course, before painting wood, certain necessary steps must take place. First comes the preparation of the wood to be painted. Sanding (along the grain of the wood), removing old paint with a paint remover such as Remover by KRAFT Paints, and cleaning the surface with brush thinner are essential actions.
• Second, filling the cracks with wood filler in order to smooth out any irregularities, allowing the primer or varnish to spread and penetrate evenly. Before this, however, it is advisable to apply a light coat of wood preservative that will protect against wood-boring insects and fungi, such as Wood Care by KRAFT Paints.
• It is very important during painting to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and keep in mind that more than one coat is required.
• Application of paint to wood is usually done with a brush, roller, or spray gun, depending on the size of the surface. By choosing the right tool for the job, you make your work easier and achieve better results.

Here you will find the full range of products for wood surface care. The varnishes and enamel paints by KRAFT Paints include a wide variety of advanced, user- and eco-friendly products that can transform any indoor or outdoor wood surface, offering high durability and quality.