What Is Wood Sealer?
Wood sealer is a protective coating that shields wood from deterioration, composed of pigments, resins, and additives. It provides blocking, preventing, and repelling effects against various environmental factors.
Like makeup for bare surfaces, wood sealant enhances wood’s appearance while requiring maintenance to preserve its quality. Selection of the right sealer is crucial based on environmental conditions.
Uses of Wood Sealer
Wood sealers are applied in various settings, especially outdoors in harsh conditions, under damp eaves, and on interior walls frequented by children’s hands. The choice of sealer depends on the wood’s location and use.
Characteristics of Wood Sealer
Pros
Wood sealers offer protection against UV rays, abrasions, mold, pests, and stains, enhancing the wood’s longevity and appearance.
Cons
They require regular reapplication every 3 to 5 years and can obscure the wood’s natural texture and aroma, depending on the sealer type used.
How to Select Wood Sealer
Choosing the right wood sealer involves considering penetration versus film-forming types, oil-based versus water-based formulations, finish color, and specific effects like UV protection and water repellency.
1. Penetration and Film-Forming Types
Penetration types enhance wood’s natural texture, suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Film-forming types offer surface protection against environmental elements, ideal for furniture and outdoor spaces.
2. Oil-Based and Water-Based Types
Water-based sealers are safer and easier to clean up but less durable than oil-based sealers, which offer a durable and long-lasting finish but come with a stronger odor and require solvents for cleanup.
3. Finish Color
Color choice affects the wood’s appearance, so select a color that complements the surrounding area and meets your aesthetic preferences.
4. Wood Paint Effects
Choose sealers with effects tailored to the wood’s exposure, such as UV-blocking for sun-exposed areas and water-repellent for rain-exposed surfaces, to slow deterioration.