Polyurethane varnish

Polyurethane varnishes are typically hard, abrasion-resistant, and durable coatings. They are popular for hardwood floors but are considered by some wood finishers to be difficult or unsuitable for finishing furniture or other detailed pieces. Polyurethanes are comparable in hardness to certain alkyds but generally form a tougher film. Compared to simple oil or shellac varnishes, polyurethane varnish forms a harder, decidedly tougher and more waterproof film(1).

Read More...Hide

The life cycle	Pro	Con
		High footprint Production of polyurethane is a polluting process. Show Alternatives » Alternatives finishing Low footprint Beeswax Clay and loam paint CNC engraving Flour paint Laser engraving Tung oil Veneer (wood) Wood filler (putty) High energy Polyurethane is energy intensive to produce. If you want to use it choose water based, which is also better in terms of offgassing. Show Alternatives » Alternatives finishing Low Energy Beeswax Chalk paint Clay and loam paint Edge band wood Flour paint Lime paint Wood filler (putty)

		Toxicity Contains VOCs and solvents. Polyurethane varnish uses petroleum based solvents. Water-based polyurethane is safer than oil-based, fewer volatile organic compounds (1). Show Alternatives » Alternatives finishing Non toxic Acrylic paint Beeswax Chalk paint Clay and loam paint Flour paint Lime paint Linseed oil (boiled) Milk paint (casein) Shellac Tung oil Veneer (wood) Water based paint Wood filler (putty)

	Non toxic Fully reacted polyurethane polymer is chemically inert (1). Long lifespan They are durable coatings.

	Low Energy This product contains organic solvents which may cause adverse effects to the environment if handled improperly. Emptied containers may retain product residue. Considered a hazardous waste and should be collected separately.