Understanding Custom Furniture Finishes |Healthy living with hard wax oils
Ever wish you could better understand the very confusing world of fine furniture finishes?
The varieties and types of finish can make anyone’s head spin, so let’s explore them in manageable chunks.
The purpose of a finish is to protect and beautify the wood.
A proper finish is one that is easy to keep clean, can handle day to day use and look great for years.
As always, there are trade-offs between level of protection, ease of use and care, appearance and feel, and environmental or health concerns. In the past, the trade-offs were larger. With today’s finishes we can get closer to the “perfect” finish (understanding that there is really no such thing).
Custom Furniture | In recent years, products known as hard-wax oils have become very popular, and for good reason.
Originating in the hardwood flooring industry, they are durable, easy to apply and easy to repair. Generally made from combinations of natural oils (flaxseed/linseed, sunflower) and natural waxes (carnuba, beeswax), there are little to no VOCs, and many are even rated for food contact. They feel great to the touch and bring out the glory of the wood character.
Hard-wax oils are easy to apply for the finisher, and are easily repairable. If the finished is damaged the area can be sanded out and refinished just in that spot.
Traditional lacquers and varnishes require the entire piece to be redone.
This is where communication / listening are key to a proper build between homeowner and builder, our furniture provides a confident space that speaks to your lifestyle and how you choose to live. When you get it right, the room carries itself with purpose.
Custom furniture is an investment that should bring joy and be timeless. The finish that protects that investment should bring the same. How do you want to live with your investments?
