Wood Lacquer FAQ's
Is there a difference between a lacquer and a varnish?
No, the trade tend to refer to them as "lacquers" and the public tend to refer to them as "varnishes".
Can you recommend a tough internal lacquer?
We always recommend the Manns trade extra tough pro lacquer for internal projects that have heavy wear and tear. This is a two part water based lacquer that provides excellent water resistant and durability. We always get excellent feedback and it can be recommended for domestic and commercial environments.
What is the best way to apply wood lacquer?
Water-based wood lacquers are very easy to apply. They are low odour and easy to work with in small spaces or confined areas. Solvent-based lacquers are also relatively easy to apply. Some however have a very strong smell and should only be used in well ventilated or open spaces to allow for the fumes to dissipate and escape. Care should be taken when applying a water-based lacquer over a water-based stain or a solvent-based lacquer over a solvent stain to avoid dragging of the colour. Apply the first coat thinly and carefully, subsequent coats can then be applied in the normal way.
What's the difference between single-part and 2-pack lacquers?
Single part lacquers can be used straight from the container or tin and are perfect for use in most domestic environments. 2-pack or 2-part lacquers come with a hardener that is inter-mixed with the lacquer. 2-pack lacquers tend to be more durable than single part lacquers and dry more quickly, making them ideal for commercial flooring and other high wear surfaces.
Why do you have both a lacquer and varnishes section on your site?
The public often feel they don't need a lacquer and sometimes the trade feel they don't need a varnish, so this way we cater for both markets. In our lacquers section we have mainly included solvent-based lacquers, which are mainly used by the trade and in our varnishes section we have water-based products which are recommended for use in the home.
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Disclaimer: Whilst every attempt has been made to provide product information that is as accurate as possible, it's important to clarify that trees and the wood that they produce can be affected by many factors. For example, the same species of tree grown in the same wood, even in close proximity, will be affected by age along with the amount of sunlight and water they receive. Other naturally occurring biological and environmental factors will also influence the density and grain of the wood as well as the moisture and oil content of the timber. No two trees are the same, meaning each piece of wood has the potential to look and react differently to the same wood finish. For example, product adhesion, colour variations, absorption rates and sheen levels. It is for this reason that we always strongly recommend carrying out test areas before starting any project