There are also oil-based products and polyurethane and acrylic varnishes for wood. Oil-based products are appreciated for their natural, warm appearance. They penetrate the wood, nourish it and give it a pleasant finish. The disadvantages of wood oils are that they give off an odour when they dry over a longer or shorter period of time, offer little protection against water and stains, and significantly alter the original colour of the wood. Polyurethane and acrylic varnishes are known for their durability, resistance to knocks and scratches and, above all, to everyday stains. They are recommended for wooden tables that are subject to heavy use and for easy maintenance.
When it comes to colour, the ideal choice is a colourless product if you want to preserve the authentic appearance of the material. There are, however, varnishes for wood in grey, black, red, light oak, dark oak, etc. This allows you to colour and protect the table at the same time. This is an option if you're looking for a more modern look or coloured furniture in your décor. You can opt for a wood varnish with a matt, gloss or satin finish, depending on your preference.
When it comes to application techniques, you can choose between brush, roller and spray. The brush offers precise control and the roller covers large surfaces quickly. Spraying gives a professional finish, but requires experience.
For a perfect finish, apply several thin coats of varnish rather than one thick coat to the wooden table. Once the first coat has dried, use a fine-grain abrasive to sand before applying another coat. This will allow the second coat to adhere better and there will be no roughness in the wood or drips after drying.