Alkyd-urethane varnish - characteristics, properties and how to apply it correctly

Alkyd-urethane varnish is made from alkyd resins and urethane components. It is applied to wooden surfaces. This varnish is also used to coat parquet flooring, parts of ships and boats, stairs, furniture and other products.

The main advantages of this material include the following:

• the coated surface dries quickly;
• varnish gives it a high level of hardness;
• the mixture is easily applied to a wooden surface, giving it a matte tone;
• protects the coating from contamination;
• does not emit odor;
• does not require preliminary priming of the surface.

This is not a complete list of the advantages that this paint and varnish material has.

Alkyd-urethane varnishes have a colorless composition, but matte varnishes are also available. The thinner for this varnish is white spirit. The varnish is highly resistant to abrasion. The minimum service life of a properly applied varnish coating is ten years. The main purpose of alkyd-urethane varnishes is to treat wooden surfaces indoors.

The main feature of the varnish is its drying speed. After complete drying, it does not pose a threat to the health of people and animals in the room.

Which brand of yacht varnish should I choose?

Today, many paint and varnish manufacturers have expanded their range with varnishes of increased moisture resistance.
And to make it clearer to customers what properties the new products have, they added a loud inscription “yacht varnish” to the product names. There is no big deception here - the proposed coatings really reliably protect wooden structures from water and sun. So if you don’t plan to go out to sea on your summer gazebo, it’s quite possible to paint it with just such a varnish. Moreover, its cost will be relatively low.

Good coating materials with a moisture-proof function are offered by the following companies:

1. Poli-R

2. LLC Taganrog Paint and Varnish

3. Symphony

4. Polisan LLC (TM Maxima)

5. Private enterprise "Emal" (TM Rolax)

But if you want maximum water resistance or are really looking for a boat protection varnish, you'll need real "navy" grades:

1. Caparol (TM Alpina)

2. Belinka

3. Yaroslavl paints

4.Johnstones

5. Eskaro

Areas of use

Due to their versatility, such compositions can be used to treat surfaces made of almost any material . This is one of the most commonly used paints and varnishes in construction. Most often, these mixtures are used for processing metal, wood and concrete structures.

Moreover, each type of surface has its own series of mixtures, slightly different in composition. But in general they can be used for any materials. Alkyd-urethane enamel for metal surfaces will provide reliable protection of the structure from corrosion, significantly extending its service life.

The paint can be used both for household work and at industrial facilities. Heating radiators are often painted with alkyd enamels. Automotive parts are also coated with these compounds. Moreover, in this case the mixture is usually applied in 3 layers.

Characteristics

More detailed technical characteristics of varnish compositions for wood can be found in the table below.

Safety

Such paint and varnish compositions can be stored and transported at temperatures up to 30 degrees Celsius.

Do not allow ultraviolet light to come into contact with the varnish.

It is important to take precautions when storing and transporting alkyd-urethane coatings, because they contain butanone oxime and cobalt bis. They can cause allergies, which manifest as cracked skin and dryness.

Such mixtures should not be poured down the drain. It is also unacceptable to throw such material into the environment.

Dilute, dilute or dissolve

At first glance, there is no difference. Using a special means, we bring the varnish substance into a “working state”. A solvent is a liquid that dissolves dried varnish, bringing it from a solid to a liquid state. We use a thinner if we need to adjust (reduce) the viscosity of paints.

Certain types of organic eluents serve dual roles, but some may be effective in one application but completely useless in another. So, for example, white spirit can be used to dilute compositions of polyurethane, alkyd and oil groups. However, if the varnish has dried, it will not be possible to dissolve it with white spirit.

White spirit can be used to thin certain varnishes.

But shellacs, on the contrary, are equally dissolved and diluted with denatured alcohols. However, we will not go into such subtle details.

If you need advice on how to dilute varnish or what to use for diluting paints, it is better to consult with specialists.

What it is?

Alkyd varnish is a mixture that contains various synthetic alkyd resins with organic solvents. The product has good adhesion and a high level of moisture resistance.

Alkyd varnishes are actively used for working with various types of surfaces.

End parquet. Alkyds do not allow the ends to stick to each other, so surface stress is eliminated;

When this varnish hardens, it forms a transparent and fairly hard layer. Many people say that alkyd products take a long time to harden. However, manufacturers have developed products with special additives, with the help of which they shortened the polymerization time. This means that the surface can be used after a short period of time.

After polymerization, a glossy or matte film is formed on the alkyd varnish, depending on the chosen product. The material that you will process with such a mixture will be provided with reliable protection against irritants of any type. Applying the alkyd mixture is quite simple, since the product has a thick consistency, due to which the product spreads well over the floor and other treated surfaces, creating a dense layer of film.

Manufacturers and reviews

In terms of demand and consumer reviews, the following manufacturers of alkyd varnishes are leaders in the market:

1. Parade offers highly flexible alkyd resin formulations that can be used both indoors and outdoors. The coating looks attractive. Consumers note the ease of application, as well as the long service life of the coating.
2. White house has improved its production technology and provided consumers with an alkyd varnish with a low odor and a shortened drying period. Compositions are used for external and internal painting. The cost of production with high characteristics is low.
3. Tikkurila is a world-famous Finnish brand that offers high-quality paints and varnishes at reasonable prices. The compositions adhere perfectly to the surface and are characterized by rapid polymerization.

There are also products from other manufacturers on the market. Before purchasing, you should carefully study the characteristics of the compositions.

Alkyd varnishes are superior to competitors in certain parameters. With their help, it will be possible to provide reliable protection and attractiveness of surfaces. At the same time, it is important to observe safety precautions when working and strictly follow the application algorithm so that the coating meets the declared qualities.

The best polyurethane parquet varnish

It is characterized by such properties as heat and light resistance, elasticity, adhesion. The top layer is abrasion resistant and can withstand significant loads.

LobaDur WS 2K DUO

Loba parquet varnish is a two-component coating, the main component of which is polyurethane. It is considered the most popular in the manufacturer’s series due to the possibility of use in industrial and residential buildings with high mechanical load on the base.

LobaDur WS 2K DUO

Product consumption does not exceed 130 g/m2 provided that it is applied in one layer. The composition is packaged in containers of 5 and 1 liters. Costs 2000 rubles. and a 5 liter canister. It comes in matte, semi-matte, glossy and extra-matte.

Pros:

• suitable for public buildings;
• Resistant to scratches, impacts, heavy furniture.

Minuses:

after wet cleaning the surface is very slippery.

Dufa Expert D333

Polyurethane material is consumed quite economically - 1 liter per 8 m2. For interior work only. The acrylic composition forms a wear-resistant and durable coating with a silky shine.

Dufa Expert D333

The consistency is applied to a previously prepared surface. Easy to clean, even with detergents. Waterproof, colorless material is diluted with water. One coat requires 24 hours to dry completely. Price for 2.5 liters – 2850 rubles.

Pros:

• can even be washed with abrasives;
• silky finish;
• wear resistance

Minus:

It takes a very long time to dry - for hours, and you need at least 3 of them.

Luxens Heavy Duty

This parquet varnish is two-component, so it needs to be diluted with a solvent, but oddly enough, reviews say that it has absolutely no smell. The company produces it in a wide palette, everyone will find something in the line.

Luxens Heavy Duty

Specifications:

2 liters will cost 758 rubles.

Plus:

• a budget option;
• designed for intensive operating loads;
• for finishing plank floors, parquet, lining, wooden walls.

Minus:

takes a long time to dry, sticky.

Marshall Protex Parke Cila 90

Marshall is an alkyd urethane parquet varnish that gives a glossy finish. Complete drying takes as much as 96 hours, but in the end you will get a wear-resistant coating. Application is easy and leaves no streaks from the brush. It must be diluted according to the instructions with white spirit.

Marshall Protex Parke Cila 90

Specifications:

Price 932 rub.

Plus:

There are options with different finishes;

Minuses:

• there will be an odor due to the thinner;
• not suitable for kitchens and balconies, laminated surfaces;
• manual application only.

Eurotex Yacht

Eurotex is created on the basis of alkyd-urethane oils. Can be diluted with solvent. Application is carried out both mechanically and manually. A perfectly glossy sheen is guaranteed. Since this parquet varnish is also for yachts, it is suitable for wet operating conditions. There is a semi-matte option.

Eurotex Yacht

Specifications:

A 2-liter container costs 790 rubles.

Pros:

• indoors and outdoors;
• does not burn out.

Minus:

The smell is from the solvent, but it dissipates quickly.

Lakra PF 231

Alkyd-urethane parquet varnish, which can be applied to metal and wood in rooms with moderate and high humidity. Complete hardening takes two days. Bring in furniture only after 5 days.

Lakra PF 231

Specifications:

Price 0.8 l 140 rub.

Pros:

• apply with a roller, spray, brush;
• waterproof;
• Can be applied to oil based bases

Minuses:

• there is an odor;
• Internal use only.

Technical standards

1. Alkyd and urethane varnishes can be used subject to the following technical specifications:
2. The presence of organic (volatile) compounds is a maximum of 0.5 kilograms per 1 liter.
3. The moisture content of wood material should not be higher than 18%.
4. The optimal temperature for use should be +9-25 degrees, and humidity – 35-75%.
5. If the paint and varnish composition is applied correctly, the consumption of 1 liter should not exceed 9-12 square meters.
6. Drying time – 3 hours.
7. Shelf life warranty – 5 years.

Working with varnish indoors

Before applying varnish, the surface must be thoroughly sanded, then cleaned of remaining particles and dust, otherwise unsightly bumps will remain on it. All holes (for example, from nails) are first filled with putty and then sanded.

The next step is applying primer varnish. This operation is especially important before varnishing the parquet. The primer will provide better adhesion of the base material to the surface, remove remaining dust particles, and additionally protect the wood from moisture. In order for the choice to be correct, you must follow several rules.

1. The first stage before priming work is to check the composition on a small area of ​​the floor covering. This way you can determine how the composition acts on wood.
2. Equally important is the compatibility of the primer varnish with the base varnish. For example, if you decide to use a water-soluble varnish, then the primer material should be the same.
3. Drying the primer takes anywhere from 15 minutes to 3 hours, so this process won't take much time anyway since most base coats take much longer to dry.
4. Apply primer varnish to the cleaned material along the grain, evenly. The main recommendation is full compliance. The primer and base material must be from the same manufacturer. In this case, there is a guarantee that there will be no unpleasant “surprises” (for example, dried bubbles).

The primer and base varnish are applied either manually - with a roller, wide brush, or spray. Different compositions need their own drying time. The fastest varnishes (alcohol-based) require speed from the master, as they begin to set after 10-15 minutes. “Slow” compositions (water-based) dry from several hours to several days. The period indicated on the product packaging is the time that must be waited before applying the next layer.

To improve the appearance of wood, add tone or enhance the pattern, use tinted varnish or stain. The latter liquid is produced on a water, wax, organic or alcohol basis. Its task is to make the drawing more expressive and contrasting.

What types of wood varnishes are there?

Varnishes are available in different types depending on the base. These are single- or multi-component compositions that, after application to wood, form a durable film in a matte or glossy finish.

Universal oil varnish Biofa 2050 for wood (1 l)

Oil varnishes – there is a high concentration of oils, resins and other organic compounds. The consistency is thick. Applying the coating with a brush is difficult. After polymerization, a yellowish thick film is formed.

Alkyds are the basis of synthetic substances. The coating is durable and abrasion-resistant. A feature of the product is fire resistance. When temperature changes occur, deformation of the protective layer is eliminated. Premature aging of wood is prevented.

Polyurethane - includes polymer materials that give the varnish wear resistance and strength. Thanks to this treatment, the structure of the wood is preserved for a long time in all weather conditions. The wood acquires a beautiful shine. The low toxicity of the product allows it to be used indoors.

Acrylic-urethane. The coating is almost odorless. It has high adhesive properties. The disadvantage is considered to be low resistance to sub-zero temperatures.

Alkyd-urea. A two-component product requiring the addition of an acid hardener before use. Wood coated with this product becomes resistant to humid environments and mechanical stress.

Nitrovarnishes. Unlike alkyds, it dries faster, but nitro varnish is sensitive to a humid environment and ultraviolet radiation. Therefore, the scope of application is limited to interior work.

Polyester. These are multi-component compositions. After processing the wood, a protective film is formed on the surface. It is inert to chemicals and high humidity.

Alkyd-urethane. An improved version of alkyd. The service life is increased by 2 times. The varnish is easy to apply to the surface due to its elasticity. During operation, the protective layer does not crack.

Epoxy varnish Yaroslavl paints EP-2146 (1.7 kg)

Epoxy. The product is considered universal, since its scope of application is not limited to certain jobs. This is a highly hard coating characterized by resistance to moisture and mechanical stress.

Alcohol - a quick-drying alcohol composition. The effect is ensured by the volatile properties of ethyl alcohol. Drying time takes about 30-40 minutes. The coating is characterized by increased strength and a beautiful shine. The disadvantage is low water resistance.

Manufacturers

The following alkyd-polyurethane varnish products are very popular in our country:

• Parade;
• White house;
• "Boron";
• parquet varnish luxens.

Parade has a high elasticity rate. The protective layer does not crack after many years, and for a long time practically does not wear off. In addition, Parade varnishes highlight the natural grain and texture of wood well. These varnish products are made for use both indoors and outdoors.

White house products have a relatively low cost and almost no perceptible odor. Varnish mixtures from this manufacturer are highly wear-resistant, quickly polymerize and retain the natural shade of wood. White house varnish solutions can be applied both outdoors and indoors.

Russian paints and varnishes "Bor" have good performance properties. The varnishes of this company dry in about 4 hours, after which the protective layer becomes resistant to adverse factors and chemical detergents.

Popular and high-quality parquet varnish luxens is used for external and internal finishing works. It can be applied both to the old varnish layer and to new wood. Parquet varnish solutions are made on a water basis and dry quickly enough, thanks to which repair and finishing work is carried out very quickly. The products have increased strength and wear resistance, have an attractive price, and are manufactured in France.

Varnish selection

Directly on how to choose varnish for parquet: to make an informed choice, you need to know a number of characteristics on which the quality and durability of the varnish coating depends.

Application area

In accordance with ÖNORMC 2354, which sets minimum requirements for varnish compositions for wooden substrates, three classes of varnish products are distinguished:

• Class A - medium loads on the surface are allowed, including the ability to move in outdoor shoes (living premises, in particular bedrooms, halls). The scope of use is similar to class 31 laminate.
• Class B - for use on surfaces subject to heavy loads, including from constant movement in street shoes (hallways, schools, kindergartens, small offices). The varnish layer is comparable in technical characteristics to class 32 laminate.
• Class C is a particularly resistant varnish, suitable for use on parquet floors with intense loads, including constant movement in outdoor shoes (shopping centers, cafes, restaurants, large offices and other public spaces). Approximately corresponds to laminate grades 33 and 34.

For clarity, the minimum requirements for clear varnish coatings are presented in a table:

At the same time, the standard does not unify the maximum possible resistance to roller wheels for each class of varnish, since, in most cases, this indicator depends on the type of wood and, accordingly, strength.

Parquet compatibility

The vast majority of parquet varnishes are optimized for oak, beech and maple parquet. However, products made from exotic (merbau, mutania), resinous (cedar, spruce, pine, fir) and other tree species are widespread today. In order not to make a bad choice, you should carefully study the instructions for use.

Physical and mechanical parameters

• Hardness, which determines the impact resistance and wear resistance of the varnish coating: the higher the better.
• Approximate consumption. Typically, it depends on thixotropy, surface condition and the application tool used. Consumption in the range of 80-150 ml per m2 is considered optimal. Using a spatula to apply varnish will help reduce consumption. In this case, it is worth pre-priming the parquet.
• The period of drying and gaining final strength. The fastest drying compounds are based on a hardener. The drying period of one layer is 8-10 hours, the final strength of the coating is gained after 4 days. Samples based on water or solvent take a little longer to polymerize - 24 hours per layer, 10 days - to achieve maximum strength.
• The intensity of gloss, depending on which the varnish is classified into three groups:
• Matte, silky matte and semi-matte;
• Semi-gloss;
• Glossy.
• Frost resistance. It is a mistake to think that frost resistance is relevant only in the case of “street” use of varnished parquet flooring. It is frost resistance that affects the permissible storage standards of the product. For example, storing compounds with a minimum storage temperature of +10°C in the cold will inevitably lead to damage to the goods. Most often, varnishes are rolled up. In most cases, neither sellers nor buyers pay attention to storage standards. It is quite simple to identify a spoiled composition - you need to thoroughly mix the composition and open the packaging. If heterogeneous flaky inclusions are detected, you can say with confidence that you have spoiled varnish.
• Possibility of tinting. Solvent-based varnishes slightly “caramelize” the coating, as if cauterizing it and giving it a peculiar amber-yellow tint. And water-based varnishes are absolutely transparent, which does not allow them to change the shade of the parquet floor. Therefore, in order to get a certain shade, you should purchase a colored varnish or a transparent one with a mark that allows tinting.

Parquet type

Please note that not every varnish composition can be used for all types of parquet. That is, varnish for piece parquet is not entirely suitable for artistic parquet due to the latter being made from several wood species

When choosing, you should pay attention to:

• On the elasticity of the composition;
• The degree of side gluing of panels.

The more whimsical and exotic the parquet, the higher the elasticity should be, and the lower the degree of lateral gluing.

Varieties

Alkyd varnish is produced for wood and metal of several types. Each variety has its own drying time and its own technical characteristics.

Two-component

Such solutions are sold in two different containers, one of which contains the varnish mixture, and the other contains the drier or hardener. Before applying such a composition, it is necessary to mix these components with each other in the proportion specified by the manufacturer in the instructions or on the packaging. After this you can start varnishing. Two-component varnishes are more wear-resistant and durable compared to single-component ones. It is advisable to cover the product with two or three layers of a two-component solution.

After the alkyd mixture is prepared, it has a short shelf life of about 8 hours, during which time you need to have time to apply the composition to the surface. Two-component compositions have a pungent odor and are not highly resistant to sunlight, so they are more often used for treating interior surfaces.

Alkyd-urethane

These mixtures are very popular today as they have excellent technical characteristics. These solutions contain alkyd resins and polyurethane, and also have a special component - toluene diisocyanate, which modifies the drying process. First, the organic solvent evaporates, after which the varnish solution hardens under the influence of oxygen. This process significantly speeds up the polymerization process; in addition, alkyd-urethane varnishes have a high resistance to mechanical loads, high levels of humidity and variable air temperatures. These compounds have a long service life, so they are very popular, although they are not cheap.

Alkyd-urethane materials are approximately half composed of organic solvents, therefore they are quite toxic and unsafe in terms of fire. Therefore, when applying them, you must follow certain safety rules - do not work near fire. In addition, you need to wait for the coating to dry completely; you cannot start using it until it has completely polymerized, otherwise the varnish will be deformed and serious defects will appear that can only be eliminated with a sanding machine.

Matte and glossy one-component mixtures

They have almost the same composition and characteristics, the only difference is in gloss. Matte solutions are more often used for floors and those surfaces that are heavily used, since damage and dirt are much less visible on a matte surface. Glossy solutions are more often used for furniture in those rooms where there is minimal lighting, since gloss perfectly reflects light.

Yachting

This type of alkyd varnish is most often used to coat yachts and boats made of wood. Yacht solutions are resistant to moisture and water, so they are used on any wood substrates used in conditions of high air humidity. These compositions can be used exclusively for outdoor work, this is explained by the fact that these products contain organic solvents that increase resistance to water. Toxic substances, for example, toluene, are necessarily added to these mixtures. Therefore, yacht varnish mixtures are not used indoors.

For metal

These alkyd varnish varieties consist of alkyd resins and polymer substances. After applying this material, the metal surface becomes attractive and shiny, while the product becomes resistant to aggressive chemical compounds, high levels of humidity and thermal influences. In addition, these alkyd varnish mixtures have excellent adhesion to various types of metals, so they are used for treating ferrous and non-ferrous metal surfaces, both for interior and exterior work.

Varnishes for parquet

They can be one-component, two-component, or water-based. Water-based compositions are odorless and environmentally friendly. Two-component solutions are the most durable in comparison with aqueous and one-component mixtures. Depending on the type of coating, they can be matte, semi-matte, glossy and semi-gloss. Many people ask what can be used to dilute alkyd varnish? This depends on what thinner is used in the varnish mixture. If the composition contains organic solvents, then the same substances must be used for dilution. And if the varnish mixture is water-based, then ordinary water is used for dilution.

In order for the varnish to acquire a certain shade, you can use tinting additives of a certain color, which are selected based on what type of wood the mixture will be applied to. Thanks to tinting, you can tint the surface and change the color and type of wood.

Varnish coating

The application of varnish does not begin immediately. First of all, the surface must be prepared.

Preparing the surface of the material

Sanding an obsolete coating layer
The preparatory stage will include the following operations:

• the room must be isolated from drafts and direct sunlight;
• Dust, dirt and grease stains are removed from the floor. You can use white spirit.
• hardwoods are soaked with white spirit;
• The roughness of the coating is removed by grinding. To do this, the defective areas are soaked and the raised fibers are removed after the surface has dried.
• a test is carried out to determine the compatibility of the new varnish with the old varnish coating on a small area of ​​the floor;
• The varnish can be applied without a primer, but in case of peeling it is necessary to remove and sand the surface;
• fresh wood should be treated with white spirit. Recommendation: 5 parts white spirit to 1 part varnish.
• After sanding, remove dust with a vacuum cleaner. It is necessary to clean the room from chip dust in the room, which can settle on the surface and spoil the quality of the material.
• Use a slightly damp cloth to wipe the wood.

Application

Before applying, the mixture must be stirred to avoid bubbling. An unmixed composition will not allow you to apply an even layer to the surface.

Alkyd-urethane varnish is applied in 2-3 layers, because it is deeply absorbed into the wood structure. With low porosity of parquet, 2 layers are sufficient, and for highly porous species - 3 layers. You should only apply thin layers because they will dry faster. Each subsequent layer is applied after the previous one has completely dried. Varnishing is done in the direction of the wood grain. For quick drying, you need to ensure air circulation, but not a draft. In hot climates, it is impossible to achieve strong acceleration of drying by air circulation, which can cause cracking of the surface of the material.

No less important information on the topic: Deck varnish

Some compositions have characteristic application features. For example, there may be a division into colored and colorless composition. The colored one is applied first, and then the colorless layers are applied on top of it.

To obtain the final result, use a brush, a special spatula or a roller.

If you use a brush, you need to pay attention to ensure that fibers cannot get on the material. A varnish spatula is suitable for light-colored coatings. When working with a spatula, less of the composition will be absorbed onto the surface than when working with a roller or brush. When working with a roller, you must ensure that there are no areas with an unevenly distributed varnish coating.

Most of the varnish remains at the original point of contact between the varnish and the roller, so this clot needs to be distributed over the surface.

Soft types of wood (conifers) deform over time, regardless of the strength of the varnish, so it is better to lay hardwood on the floor.

Description

The composition of alkyd varnish includes various synthetic resins, organic solvents and driers. These varnishes have a good adhesion rate and an excellent level of moisture resistance. Nowadays, the use of alkyd varnish is varied; it is used in the following areas:

• for processing end parquet. Since alkyd resins do not allow the ends of parquet dies to stick together, it is alkyd compounds that are used to treat wooden parquet, which prevents the occurrence of surface tension;
• to protect parquet floors where a heated floor system is installed;
• for covering floating floors;
• in order to extend the service life and protect parquet made from rare, delicate types of wood, which are very sensitive to various factors, including temperature and humidity.

Once the alkyd varnish is completely dry, it forms a very durable, hard and transparent protective coating. Some people are hesitant to use alkyd compounds because they think they take a long time to dry. But nowadays, manufacturers have developed special additives that greatly reduce the polymerization time of varnish. Many people are interested in how long does alkyd varnish with drying accelerators take to dry? Final polymerization will take approximately 1-2 days.

When the varnish polymerizes, it produces either a matte or glossy surface, depending on which product was chosen. Wood or metal that is treated with an alkyd solution becomes visually attractive and reliably protected from various negative factors, including chemicals, high humidity, various liquids, etc. Alkyd mixtures are applied very easily and quickly, they have a thick structure, spread well over the surface, while creating a fairly dense coating. One of the effective and popular varnishes is the product of the Kudo company; varnish solutions are produced in the form of aerosols and liquid mixtures.

Popular car polishes in spray form

There are many known brands of car varnishes in aerosol cans, we suggest you get acquainted with some of them.

Mobihel 1K

This varnish has excellent viscosity and adheres clearly to the car surface being treated, which makes it possible to form a dense layer without traces of leakage. It has excellent adhesion properties to the Mobihel metallic base coat. This spray is clear and is intended as a final coat over base paint. Two layers of applied aerosol give a total thickness of about 50–60 microns, which is a decent parameter for the consumer.

At standard 20 °C drying time is 5 minutes. (from dust), 12–15 min. (touch-free), complete drying lasts 60–90 minutes. The torch is unregulated, 7–8 cm in size. The main advantages are short drying time and excellent shine for this type of product.

Brulex

Transparent acrylic spray is designed to form a protective layer, as well as create a decorative shiny coating on the surface of metal, plastic and other materials. The product is one-component, for various types of work, air-dried. Brulex, released in the form of an aerosol, protects the base paint, does not turn yellow over time, and is resistant to abrasion, damage, and atmospheric conditions.

Holex

Car Acrylic Spray HAS-2559 is a 1K high quality product and air dry quickly. This composition is used to organize a transparent protective layer as part of a two-layer base-varnish paint coating. The advantages of the Holex composition are durability, strength, gloss. Can be applied to various surfaces that are properly prepared. It dries quickly, does not become cloudy over time, and is used for interior and exterior work.

Carfit

The varnish is used to form the finishing layer in car repair painting together with metallic paints. Aerosol can with a volume of 520 ml. The coating is shiny, well-adhesive to the surface, resistant to external influences, including mechanical damage. Before using the spray, shake vigorously for 1-2 minutes. The spray varnish is applied to a completely dry base paint, but it is permissible to apply it to an old coating that has been previously matted with a suitable abrasive.

Body clear coat

Excellent material, acrylic spray. Often used for urgent painting due to the fact that it dries very quickly. Used exclusively for local repairs, filling minor surface imperfections, scratches and pores. Fast drying and hardening makes it possible to save time and consumables.

Characteristics in the rating

To complete the final treatment of the car body, a layer of varnish is applied several times to protect the paint from minor scratches, chips and fading in the sun. Polyurethane is considered the most modern and practical car varnish. A product based on this substance with the addition of acrylates is considered a more affordable material with excellent properties. Today it is the undisputed leader in sales, because it forms on the surface a film with excellent gloss and resistance to external influences that is the best.

Our review presents varnishes from different brands that occupy leading positions on the market. The place of each model in the rating is based on the properties, recommendations of professional car painting specialists and assessments of owners who have experience in the practical use of these products.

How to care for a varnished base

The highest level of strength of a surface that has been painted with an alkyd-urethane-based varnish will be approximately a month after painting.

Until this point, the surface is not very resistant to external influences. Therefore, it is better not to wash a fresh coating with chemicals.

If you need to wash the alkyd-urethane coating during the first 4 weeks, then you need to take a soft rag soaked in water.

Receipt

Alkyds are synthesized in two ways: alcoholysis and the fatty acid method.

In the first case, the process takes place in 3 stages:

Transesterification of vegetable oil or triglycerides of its fatty acids with polyhydric alcohols. The chemical reaction takes place at a temperature of 240-260 °C and in the presence of a catalyst. To produce glyphthalic resins from alcohols, glycerin is used, for ethphthalic resins - etriol, for pentaphthalic resins - pentaerythritol.

Esterification of partial esters with phthalic anhydride, resulting in the formation of an acid ester.

Polyesterification with release of water and formation of alkyd.

The second method of producing resins involves esterification and polyesterification of fatty acid esters and polyhydric alcohols.

Specifications

The constant and main component of varnishes is alkyd resin, which acts as a base. Among similar products, alkyd varnishes are unrivaled in terms of resistance to temperature fluctuations.

Vibration loads do not in any way affect the quality of the applied alkyd composition; in addition, the varnish does not have the adhesive qualities that many representatives of paint and varnish products have. The product is absorbed directly into the wood and does not penetrate into the floor cracks in the log house. Such product characteristics make it possible to minimize floorboard squeaks when treating the floor with an alkyd mixture.

The first alkyd-based varnish that began to be produced in Russia was the composition PF-231. The product is intended for use on all types of surfaces. One can note the visual attractiveness of the base obtained after treatment with this composition - the film evenly and neatly covers the working surface.

In addition to the positive characteristics, the composition also has some disadvantages. The main disadvantage is the short service life of the coating due to its minimal hardness. Due to this, after 2-3 years the surface of the wooden floor will have to be treated again. On other materials the composition will last many times longer.

PF 283 forms a glossy layer, notable for its decorative properties. Essentially, these products are a mixture of alkyd resin, fatty acids and natural solvents. In addition, the ingredients include a drier. Most often, such varnish is sold in a can as an aerosol of 150 ml.

PF-170 includes resin in combination with specific additives and aliphatic hydrocarbons. The composition can be used for wood, wood-containing materials, metal and ceramic substrates. In addition, bases treated with paints, enamels and primers are very often coated with a protective and decorative composition. The products are allowed for use indoors and outdoors. The varnish is manufactured in accordance with GOST, is resistant to chemical detergents and aggressive environmental factors, allows the surface to “breathe” and is very economical in terms of consumption.

Benefits and harms

The advantages of alkyd varnishes include the following characteristics:

• resistance to temperature and humidity fluctuations;
• vibration resistance;
• lack of adhesive properties;
• high decorative qualities of the resulting coating;

• when using a brush, the composition is applied very quickly, since it has a thick consistency;
• after drying, a glossy or matte film forms on the base;
• resistance to mechanical loads;
• the composition does not lose its properties upon contact with chemical compounds;
• prevents the formation of mold or mildew on the material.

According to consumer reviews, the following disadvantages of alkyd compositions stand out:

• Complete polymerization of the mixture requires quite a lot of time, usually about a day. To eliminate this disadvantage, most manufacturers began to include hardeners in the composition, which help reduce the time required for the mixture to dry.
• A base that is not completely dry and treated with alkyd varnish has a sharp, specific odor that is dangerous to human health. To eliminate the risk of vapor poisoning, the room should be well ventilated while the film is curing.
• Excessive amounts of alkyd mixture will certainly wrinkle the base, so when working with the product you must follow the instructions.

Two-pack

They consist of two components, the second component being a desiccant. Before application, the mixture must be combined into one composition in the ratio specified by the manufacturer. After this you can start painting.

Typically, a durable and high-quality coating requires surface treatment in 2 or 3 layers.

However, the varnish has a pungent odor, as well as low resistance to sunlight.

Alkyd-urethane

It becomes popular due to the characteristics of the mixture in which alkyds react with polyurethane. The mixture is improved due to a special component - toluene diisocyanate, thanks to which the varnish drying process is carried out slightly differently. First of all, the solvent evaporates, and after that the mixture solidifies when exposed to oxygen.

The drying time of the surface with this drying mechanism is reduced, in addition, the resistance to abrasion, temperature influences and high humidity improves.

This pattern causes an increase in the service life of the coating, which is explained by the high demand for the product, as well as its high cost.

Additional Information:

Lena from the site https://zhirafa.com shares her knowledge: While you are deciding to buy the necessary materials, deciding which craquelure product to choose, I will tell you how to get craquelure using improvised means. I am a supporter of using improvised means to obtain various effects in decoupage, I like to use egg crackle, semolina and cereals, BUT I’ll say right away that if you can buy, order by mail, ask someone to bring you the means for crackle, then don’t read this article)))) Although, I probably got carried away, Here I thought, what if you decide to decoupage.

The plastic surface was covered with a layer of primer, then two layers of alkyd auto enamel Sadolin (aerosol), then a layer of alkyd auto enamel Mobihel (metallic). Question: Can I apply acrylic varnish now? Will it dissolve the enamel and cause it to peel off?

Thanks in advance for your answer!

Both yacht and parquet varnish solutions are available in one-component and two-component versions. Although two-component ones are more expensive, they have better wear resistance and durability. Varnishes can also be classified according to the type of gloss; there are glossy, semi-gloss and matte mixtures. Matte solutions are usually used in very dirty areas and in high traffic areas. The matte layer is easy to clean and shows much less damage.

Glossy mixtures strongly reflect light, so they are more often used in rooms with poor lighting or on decorative, elegant products and details.

Advantages and disadvantages

The advantages of alkyd-urethane products include the following characteristics:

• dry quite quickly, this requires from 5 to 11 hours;
• have a high level of strength and wear resistance;
• have good adhesion to various materials, easy to lay on various substrates;
• have excellent resistance to moisture, water and chemicals;
• provide reliable protection to the base from dust, dirt and debris;
• practically odorless;
• do not make the surface slippery;
• highlight and emphasize the natural grain of wood;
• protects wood from mold and fungi, and provides metal with reliable protection from corrosion and rust;
• do not have adhesive properties;
• resistant to temperature changes;
• have a long service life.

Despite all the above advantages, alkyd and urethane varnishes also have negative properties:

• unpleasant, pungent odor if the varnish contains organic solvents;
• fire hazard; only those varnishes that contain water as a solvent do not ignite.

Old alkyd varnishes took quite a long time to dry. In order for the varnish film to harden, it was necessary to wait a day or more. But alkyd-urethane varnish no longer has this drawback, since it contains toluene diisocyanate, which gives the solution additional molecular weight. Thanks to this substance, the solvent from the varnish evaporates very quickly, so the drying process takes only 6-16 hours, however, the cost of alkyd-urethane compositions is higher than the price of alkyd products.

Kinds

The classification of varnishes is carried out according to two criteria: appearance and chemical composition. Based on the first sign, substances are divided into glossy and matte. The surface treated with a glossy composition becomes shiny, reflecting the incident light well. As a result, wooden products acquire a special beauty, requiring constant care.

The matte finish is not as flashy and takes less time to clean. The bases treated in this way are practical, hiding dirt well.

The characteristics of the chemical composition are reflected in the following types of yacht varnish.

• Alkyd. It is the most common type of yacht varnish for exterior woodwork. It has good resistance to all kinds of external influences, having the ability to be deeply absorbed into the surface being treated. The disadvantages of the substance include its toxicity, which persists for a long time after application. Alkyd compounds are intended exclusively for external use.
• Alkyd-urethane. Thanks to the presence of a sufficient amount of alkyd compounds, the varnish acquires the ability to withstand the vicissitudes of the weather. The substance hardens quite quickly - within 5-6 hours. Due to the high toxicity, it is necessary to use a respirator and gloves during work to avoid poisoning the body. Alkyd-urethane compounds are used only in outdoor conditions.
• Urethane-alkyd. Due to the introduction of urethane plasticizers into the composition, the volatility of toxins is noticeably reduced. The resulting film is not afraid of significant temperature changes.
• Acrylate. Water is used as a base, so the substance is practically harmless. It is this circumstance that makes it quite expensive, since the environmental friendliness of the product is combined with the inherent strength of classic yacht varnishes. Acrylate compositions have no restrictions on their use. At the same time, they are not able to fully fulfill their initial role of protecting wooden ships.

Advantages

Alkyd-urethane based paints and varnishes have a large number of advantages:

1. Beautiful appearance.
2. They dry quickly (no more than 6-12 hours, which is less than alkyd-based varnishes).
3. High level of resistance, good hardness (this indicator is also better than alkyd).
4. It is easy to work with the composition, which lies flat on the base, after which you get a coating with a matte or semi-matte effect.
5. Not afraid of moisture and chemicals.
6. Reliably protects the floor from dirt.
7. Almost odorless (the products are based on solvents with a low odor).
8. Good elasticity, so the coating does not crack and does not change the dimensions of the wood product.
9. The ends of the parquet are not glued together, so there is no stress on the product.
10. You should not apply primer before coating on a base that has already been varnished before.
11. The floor covered with this substance does not slip.
12. This material preserves the natural shade of wood, while making its structure clearer.