Finishing Processes

Question 1

What materials can paint be used on?

Question 2

What materials can paint be used for?

Answer 2

Paints are generally used on both metal and wood; however different types of paint are normally required as paints are usually designed with specific properties in mind.

Question 3

What is the main function of paint?

Answer 3

It can provide both coloured and textured finishes to help achieve the desired outcome. Paint can also provide a barrier against corrosion and decay.

Question 4

What are the advantages of using paint?

Answer 4

• For metals paint is a relatively low cost way of corrosion prevention, helping to increase the longevity of the wood.
• It offers a wide variety of colours and finishes to improve appearance.
• It can shield surfaces from moisture, sunlight, rust and wear, massively helping increase the lifespan of both wood and metals
• Generally cheaper than alternative methods of protecting woods and metals
• Easy to change or update colours and designs
• Many more modern paints dry quickly reducing waiting time.

Question 5

What can paint be applied with?

Answer 5

It can be applied with brush, spray and roller.

Question 6

What are the disadvantages of using paint?

Answer 6

• Paint can chip, peel or fade over time requiring touch ups
• The surfaces being used to paint on requires cleaning, sanding or priming beforehand. This includes the fact that metals must be degreased before paint is applied.
• It is only really a temporary finish unlike other methods. Paint need fairly regular reapplication to properly maintain its function
• Wet paints can release volatile organic compounds that could be harmful without adequate ventilation. Some paints can be harmful to the environment during production and disposal.
• Paint surfaces can often be harder to clean than other methods and also stain easily
• Wood should be treated for knotting to prevent the resin spoiling the finish.
• Undercoats of colours are often needed for both wood and metal.

Question 7

What material is varnish generally used on?

Answer 7

Wood

Question 8

What finishes can varnish give you?

Answer 8

Varnishes can be available in gloss satin and matte finishes and you can get them in clear or coloured finishes. They can have a hard, heatproof or waterproof finish. Varnish is often used on furniture and some outdoor products.

Question 9

How is varnish applied?

Answer 9

To use varnish apply a thin coat with a brush in the direction of the grain. Several thin coats can be applied as long as you sand the wood down between coats.

Question 10

What are the advantages of using varnishes?

Answer 10

• Varnish provides a hard, tough, heatproof and waterproof finish
• A clear finish allows the grain of the wood to be seen through the finish unlike paint.
• Some outdoor varnishes offer protection against sunlight damage
• It is very waterproof especially when using marine or polyurethane varnishes.