There are many different types of finishes and coatings available for cabinetry in Mesa, AZ. One such finish is conversion varnish which can be found in both water-based and oil-based formulas. Conversion varnishes are typically used on cabinets, furniture, or other hardwood surfaces to create a durable protective coating with a glossy finish. This blog post will discuss the features of this type of cabinet finishing product as well as how it’s applied to various surfaces.
What Is Conversion Varnish and Why Should You Use It?
Conversion varnish is a protective coating that is applied to wooden furniture, floors, and other surfaces. It’s created from natural substances, including linseed oil, tung oil, and turpentine, with a clear finish that gives wood cabinets a lustrous, glossy sheen. This type of varnish can be used on all types of cabinetry, including kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, and furniture such as armoires or chests of drawers. It is a specialized type of paint that is resistant to chipping, dents, and scratches. What’s more is that conversion varnishes protect the wood against UV rays, moisture, and accidental spills by sealing it to make it water-resistant while giving it an attractive look and preserves the original color.
Conversion Varnish for Cabinetry
Since it is a finish that adds opacity to the paint to increase its durability, it gives the painted surface more excellent protection from water, dirt, and UV rays which can cause it to fade or peel over time. Conversion paints are more expensive than standard finishes because they contain more layers of varnish; however, for high-quality cabinetry, it’s worth investing in sealing your cabinets with varnished conversion products.
Vinyl-coated wood cabinets often have an acrylic coating on top as well as other protective seals and are then coated with conversion varnishes before being installed into their final homes. This extra layer ensures the lifespan of these cabinets.
Conversion varnishes may be tinted to give the wood a warmer, richer appearance; for example, mahogany cabinets are often covered with varnish tints ranging from deep reds to light yellows and oranges. This helps match the warm tones of these woods with those found in kitchens or living rooms, as well as adding durability against scratches, wear and tear due to moisture exposure, rough handling during installation, or relocation processions.
Conversion-varnished cabinetry is also easier to clean because it resists water stains better than other finishes applied on cabinet surfaces. It’s essential not only for protecting your investment but also for maintaining its aesthetic appeal over time – many experts recommend refinishing all kitchen cabinets at least every three to five years.
It’s essential to know before applying this protective coating whether your cabinets need additional coatings or other treatments because some materials may not require conversion varnishes at all. However, with a conversion varnish, the result is a beautiful, durable finish and piece of art for your cabinets!
Conversion Varnish vs. Other Finishes
Lacquer: Lacquer is a liquid that dries quickly, usually in about an hour. It’s water-based and includes solvents to make it easier to apply evenly without brush strokes. The drawback of lacquer is its lack of durability (it can wear off or chip) and the unpleasant fumes associated with applying it. Lacquers are often used on furniture projects because they’re easy to use and don’t require sanding between coats; however, you need multiple layers for adequate protection from scratches and chips. On the other hand, conversion varnishes have a quick dry time & no odor while using them.
Polyurethane: Polyurethane is another coating option for finish cabinet doors. It also provides long-lasting protection against wear and tear, but it does not have any flexibility compared to conversion varnishes because it becomes brittle after drying out. It is also the most popular finish for cabinet doors. It has a slightly higher price than lacquer, but it’s also more durable, so you don’t need to apply as many layers. The only drawback of polyurethanes is that they have an unpleasant odor while using and can take up to 24 hours to dry thoroughly.
The Benefits of Using Conversion Varnish for Your Cabinets
Cabinets are a staple in any kitchen, and choosing the proper finishing can be difficult. Conversion varnish is an often overlooked option that provides many benefits for your cabinets.
Take a look at some of the benefits:
Dramatically improves the surface of your cabinets
One of the benefits of conversion varnish is that it protects the surface of your cabinets from scratches and dents. It’s also more durable than polyurethane for this purpose.
Provides UV protection to reduce fading over time
UV light can damage the color and appearance of clear finishes. However, a conversion varnish offers some protection against these adverse effects.
Protects wood surfaces from moisture exposure
Varnishes create a protective barrier between water vapor in our environment (such as humidity) and the underlying material, which helps prevent mold growth on materials like furniture or trim boards where there are points of contact with water sources. That means less maintenance! Conversion varnishes also dry quickly, so you don’t have to wait long to apply them.
Lengthens the life of a clear finish
A conversion varnish will protect against wear and tear from everyday use, especially if you don’t want to spend money on replacing furniture or trim boards as often because they have been refinished with new finishes periodically—just reapply conversion varnishes every few years!
It keeps surfaces looking like new.
Conversion varnish will also help eliminate the possibility of surfaces looking like they are “fuzzing.” Your cabinets will look more like new for longer.
Prevents discoloration
The conversion varnish will also help prevent surfaces from becoming yellowed or stained—which is especially useful if you have antique furniture stored in the cabinets that might be at risk of being damaged by common household chemicals like bleach and ammonia!
Prevents water spots
Water spots will be tough to remove if you don’t first spend time applying a conversion varnish. Once the surface is coated with this product, the next step would be to use a clear finish for the best results!
Perfects your trim boards or cabinets
Don’t have time to refinish all of your old furniture? Applying a conversion varnish will protect against aging and keep it looking new. Apply at least once every few years, and you’ll never need to worry about adding new finishes that can take much more effort and money to maintain.
Maintaining a piece’s original color.
Conversion varnishes are tinted with pigment to give them an opaque finish. This provides more depth and richness in your final product, so you don’t have to worry about replacing furniture or trim boards because they’ve faded over time!
Less labor
Another benefit is that conversion varnish will dry quickly, which means less waiting before applying another coat. You can usually apply two coats without sanding between each one—just make sure there are at least 24 hours between applications for best results!
Reduce maintenance costs
With conversion varnish, you can save a lot in maintenance costs. For example, suppose your piece of furniture is finished with conversion varnish and gets scratched or damaged. In that case, the damage will not show through to raw wood underneath!
Protection against yellowing
Conversion varnishes are less prone to yellowing over time than other forms of polyurethane finishes because they don’t contain any solvents that may evaporate out—solvent loss causes lighter colors like white and light cream to turn more yellow over time. Because it’s tinted instead, this type of finish won’t let UV rays do as much damage when it penetrates deeper into the surface.
Project longevity
Because conversion varnishes dry so quickly, there’s less opportunity for dust and other particles to become embedded in the finish. That means that your project will last longer!
Variety of colors available
The tinted nature of conversion varnishes also offers a surprising range of color options. It’s not just limited to clear finishes but can include everything from dark walnut browns to bright red hues on top—though you may need more than one coat if it’s an exceptionally light shade (or vice versa).
Enhances the beauty of your cabinets
If you’re looking to make your cabinets look shiny and new, conversion varnish is the best option. With an elegant sheen and a protective coating, you can rest assured that your cabinets will look great for years to come.
In conclusion, conversion varnish for cabinet doors can be very beneficial because it offers many advantages over other types of finishes. It’s challenging yet easy to maintain and will make your cabinetry last longer no matter what material type you choose!
Cabinet Doors in Mesa, Arizona
C4L Cabinetry got a vast selection of doors and styles for you to choose from. Whether you need a few new cabinet doors or an entire kitchen makeover, we have what you need at prices that can’t be beaten. We also offer a conversion varnish finish and will give your cabinets a professional look without costing you an arm and a leg.
You deserve the best for your home – so see us today! We offer free consultations with our experts on staff, who can help guide you through the process of choosing the perfect cabinet style for your space. And if it turns out that we don’t have exactly what you want? No problem! We offer custom design services and installation services, so all of your needs are met in one convenient location.