Can You Paint Over Varnish? Expert Tips for a Flawless Finish
Do you have a varnished finish in your Colorado home that you'd like to cover with paint? If so, you may be looking for an answer to the question – can you paint over varnish? This article will answer that question and provide comprehensive guidance on how to paint over varnish for a flawless finish. With our expert tips, you'll avoid frustrating pitfalls!
Covering old varnished wood with fresh paint will elevate the look of your home, but there are a few challenges you need to be aware of. Varnish protects wood with a smooth, impermeable finish and for this reason, paint doesn't adhere well to varnish.
In this article, we offer tips on how to prepare a varnished surface so that paint will bond. But if you're unsure about the process, consult with Singletrack Painting, Colorado's premier house painting company. Singletrack has years of experience painting in the Denver and Front Range areas and are experts at painting over varnished surfaces.
Varnish: Understanding Its Impact on Painting
In the world of finishes, varnish and paint aren't exactly compatible friends. Varnish resists paint. And paint doesn't want to adhere to varnish. Let's take a look at the properties of varnish so you'll have a handle on why painting varnished surfaces comes with some challenges. Once you understand the properties of varnish, you'll have clear answers to "Can you paint over varnished wood?"
Varnish, a centuries-old sealant, is composed of resins, oils, and solvents that provide a clear, translucent finish. Although initially clear, varnish can be tinted with stain that will still provide a smooth, durable coating over wood. And the hard finish will resist a coat of paint unless it's prepped and primed correctly.
Now that you know the basics of varnish, let's address the question, can you transition a stained surface to a painted surface? Many people are unsure about whether they should paint or stain kitchen cabinets. If you're one of those folks who'd like to modernize their cabinets or wood paneling with paint, we'll clear up the confusion in the next section of this article.
Can You Paint Over Varnish?
Yes! Painting over varnished wood can be very successful – IF – you prepare the varnished surface correctly and use the right primer before painting. Paint simply can't adhere to an unprepared, unprimed varnish surface. The surface is too smooth for the paint to bind, and before long it will start to flake and peel. So be sure to sand and prime for a flawless painted finish.
STEP 1: SANDING
The first step to prepare a varnished surface for paint is sanding.
Before sanding, be sure to check the surface for any damage. Repairs should be made before sanding.
Use 120 to 150 medium grit sandpaper on a block and take down the gloss on the varnished surface.
Dust the residue dust with a damp cloth.
STEP 2: PRIMER
The second step is to apply primer. There are a few kinds of primers specifically formulated for particular kinds of applications.
Oil-based primer is most effective for bonding. Zinser Cover Stain or Kilz Oil are two of the industry leaders
Shellac primers are used to cover stains like smoke, water damage, and rust. Beware: they can be high in VOCs.
Water-based high bonding primers. INSL-X Stix is the industry leader in this category.
If you're debating whether to paint cabinets or not, consult with the experts at Singletrack Painting. Our skill and experience can guide you toward achieving a beautiful paint job.
Choosing the Right Paint for Varnished Surfaces
Quality paints from respected manufacturers will provide a beautiful, durable, long-lasting finish if you prepare the varnished surface correctly. Bathroom and kitchen cabinets get a lot of wear so be sure to select a high-quality paint formulated for high-moisture areas. If choosing a water-based paint, make sure your primer is also water-based.
Benjamin Moore Advance is an excellent water-based enamel paint with low VOCs that provides exceptional durability when painting over varnish. Sherwin Williams Emerald Trim Urethane is another great choice for painting over varnished wood.
If you need help choosing the best paint when covering a varnished surface, consult with Singletrack Painting. We know which paints will give you the durability and lasting finish you're looking for.
Potential Challenges and Solutions When Painting Over Varnish
Painting over varnish isn't the easiest DIY painting project to tackle. However, if you understand the properties of varnish you'll be able to bypass mistakes and challenges when covering varnish with paint.
POTENTIAL CHALLENGES
The all-important steps of sanding, cleaning, and priming should help you avoid major problems but here are some issues that can pop up:
Uneven coverage – Usually uneven coverage is due to uneven sanding or priming. It can also result from not cleaning the dust after sanding.
Adhesion problems – Adhesion problems are usually the result of an improperly repaired or sanded surface.
Also, using the wrong type of primer can prevent the paint from bonding to the surface.
Priming before the sanded surface is dry can be a reason paint won't adhere.
SOLUTIONS
Use a sanding block with a medium sandpaper of between 120 to 150 grit. Sand evenly and thoroughly so that all of the varnish gloss is removed.
Carefully wipe down the sanding dust with a damp rag and let the surface dry completely.
Choose a primer that's compatible with the paint you'll be using. Several thin coats of primer are far better than applying one thick coat. Take your time and make sure the primer is applied evenly.
Singletrack Painting knows the ins and outs of painting over varnish so that your new paint job will be beautiful, durable, and long-lasting. When wondering – can you paint over wood varnish? – consult with the pros at Singletrack.
Maintenance Tips for Painted Varnished Surfaces
Follow these tips for maintaining your painted varnished surfaces:
Keep the surfaces clean and maintained. Pollution and microorganisms that break down paint can lurk on painted surfaces even when you can't see them.
Periodically wash down the surface with a soft rag, mild detergent, and water. Rinse the surface with clean water and wipe dry with a soft dry cloth.
Avoid using scrubbers, harsh chemicals, or even hot water or steam. Those products can scratch the surface, remove the finish, or even stain.
Whether hiring a painter or doing it yourself, regular maintenance will prolong the life of painted surfaces. Keep your painted surfaces looking their best by scheduling routine check-ups with Singletrack Painting.
Singletrack Painting: Your Expert in Painting Over Varnish
Whether you lack the time, the painting experience, or the tools, painting over varnish may not be up your alley. In that case, choose professional painters for a hassle-free, high-quality painting experience.
Singletrack Painting crews have the experience and skilled workmanship to prep, prime, and paint over varnish. Our cabinet painting services are superior and we shine in providing outstanding customer service. Simply choose your favorite color and in no time at all, you'll have a beautiful flawless finish that you'll love. Let's get started. Contact Singletrack today!
