finishing

Question 1

Powder Coating

Answer 1

Material: Any metal
Application: Electrostatic spray gun, then heated to melt powder
Purpose: Adds a hard, protective layer

Question 2

Wax Polish

Answer 2

Material: Any wood
Application: Buffing or hand-applied with a cloth
Purpose: Enhances aesthetic appeal, brings out timber grain

Question 3

French Polish

Answer 3

Material: Hardwoods (e.g., mahogany)
Application: Several thin layers applied by hand with a cloth
Purpose: High-gloss finish

Question 4

Varnish

Answer 4

Material: Any wood
Application: Applied with brush, spray, or roller in thin coats
Purpose: Protection from elements, improves aesthetics

Question 5

Wood Stain

Answer 5

Material: Any wood
Application: Applied with brush or spray
Purpose: Adds colour or highlights timber grain

Question 6

Exterior Wood Stain

Answer 6

Material: Hard or softwoods (natural wood)
Application: Applied with brush or spray
Purpose: Protects wood from weathering and elements

Question 7

Oil (Teak, Danish, Vegetable, Linseed)

Answer 7

Material: Any wood
Application: Usually applied with a cloth, can be sprayed on large surfaces
Purpose: Nourishes wood, adds subtle sheen, protects surface

Question 8

Key considerations when choosing an appropriate finish

Answer 8

The material
Function of product and how finish can enhance it

Question 8

Paint (Oil- or Water-based)

Answer 8

Material: Any wood
Application: Applied with brush or spray
Purpose: Protective coating, improves visual appearance

Question 9

Importance of finishing

Answer 9

Protection - To protect the material the product is made from, durability and resistance

Aesthetics - To enhance the material or product’s visual appearance

Question 10

Galvanizing

Answer 10

Iron and steel

Applied viaa chemical process coating material with zinc

Provides resistance to rust

Question 11

Anodising

Answer 11

Aluminium, titanium and magnesium

Applied via electrolysis using acid and current to build protective layers onto material

Increases resistance to corrosion and allows an addition of colour

Question 12

Electroplating

Answer 12

Iron and steel

Applied chemically using electricity to add layers of other metals over the top of the base layer

Prevents rust and corrosion, and allows for a shiny, attractive, highly polished finish

Question 13

Paint

Answer 13

Any metal

Applied via spray or brush

Prevent corrosion and enhance appearance

Question 14

Polish

Answer 14

Any metal

Applied via machine buffing or by hand with a cloth

To add shine to the material