Choosing the Right Varnish

Polyurethane

Polyurethane varnishes are the most commonly used modern varnishes. These varnishes are very hard-wearing and can be used to coat timber inside and outside the home.

Acrylic

Acrylic varnishes are nonetheless becoming increasingly popular. Advances in manufacturing methods mean that these, too, are suitable for interior and exterior use, and even for hard-working surfaces like floors. Although some people maintain that polyurethane still has the edge in terms of durability and glossiness, others are won over by acrylic's user-friendly qualities.

Acrylic varnish does not have the unpleasant odour associated with polyurethane, it is non-toxic, it dries more quickly, and brushes used for acrylic varnishing can be cleaned with water.