What Can You Put on Painted Furniture to Protect It?

Water-Based Polyurethane

• Water-based polyurethane is a resin-type varnish that coats your furniture in a hard, plastic-like top coat. The water-based version of polyurethane is lower in harmful VOC fumes than other formulations of polyurethane available. This version, unlike other versions, dries perfectly clear so doesn't change the color of the underlying paint. It is very thin so several coats of may be required, and it can be applied with a brush, a rag or a spray can. It's available in high gloss, gloss, semi-gloss and satin finishes, making it highly versatile in its finished appearance. It is easy to clean with soap and water, and the finish lasts for several years, although it is prone to cracking.

Oil-Based Polyurethane

• Oil-based polyurethane is another resin-type varnish, and it leaves an incredibly hard, durable coat over your painted furniture. This type of polyurethane is high in harmful fumes and must be applied in a well ventilated area. Because of its oil base, it dries slightly yellow or amber, discoloring the paint beneath the polyurethane coating, so may not be the best choice for lighter paint finishes. This is very thick so can be applied in only one or two coats. It's available in high gloss, gloss, semi-gloss and satin finishes, making it highly versatile in its finished appearance. It must be cleaned with special mineral spirits or wiped clean with a damp rag.

Wax

• Wax paste provides an aged patina to your painted piece and also protects it from water damage and spills. It's easy to apply, as it is simply wiped on to the piece and then buffed after the wax has dried. It dries to a matte-satin finish, and gives your painted furniture an antiqued, darkened look. Wax finished can be wiped clean with a damp cloth and spills will bead up on the surface.

Lacquer

• Lacquer, unlike polyurethane, is very flexible and moves with the furniture as it expands and contracts with age, time and humidity. Lacquer almost always dries to a very high-gloss, clear shine and is best applied in thick layers. For best results, use spray cans and apply your lacquer on a warm, low-humidity day in a well ventilated area. A lacquered finish lasts for years and can be cleaned with a damp cloth.