Table of Content

• 1. Identifying Common Wood Finishes
  • 1.1 Look at the Shine
  • 1.2 Feel the Texture
  • 1.3 Check for Color
• 2. Testing Methods for Determining Wood Finish
  • 2.1 The Water Drop Test
  • 2.2 The Solvent Test
  • 2.3 The Scratch Test
• 3. Deciding on the Next Steps After Identifying the Finish
  • 3.1 How to Care for Each Type of Finish
  • 3.2 When to Refinish
  • 3.3 Professional Consultation vs DIY

When you own wood furniture, knowing the type of finish it has is crucial for proper care and maintenance. Whether you're tending to your beloved antique dining table or a sleek modern bed frame, identifying the finish helps you use the right cleaning products and techniques. This guide will walk you through the steps to determine and understand the most common wood finishes.

1. Identifying Common Wood Finishes

1.1 Look at the Shine

The shine of the wood surface can tell you a lot about the finish. If the wood has a glossy and reflective surface, it's likely covered with a polyurethane or varnish finish. These finishes are durable and popular for high-traffic furniture like tables and stairway bunk beds. In contrast, a satin or matte appearance might indicate a wax or oil finish. Such finishes are often preferred for their natural look and feel, commonly used on rustic or vintage furniture.

For finer details:

• Glossy and Reflective: Generally indicates polyurethane or varnish.
• Satin or Matte: Often means wax or oil.

Pro-tip: When examining different wood pieces, use a flashlight to help accentuate the finish's shine and texture.

1.2 Feel the Texture

The feel of the wood can also indicate the type of finish. Smooth and slick surfaces usually suggest a lacquer or shellac finish. These are often found on modern pieces like beds and bunk beds. On the other hand, if the surface feels slightly tacky or waxy, it's probably an oil or wax finish. This unique texture isn't just a maintenance detail—it's a tactile feature that enhances the overall aesthetic feel of your furniture.

Key textures to note:

• Smooth and Slick: Lacquer or shellac.
• Tacky or Waxy: Oil or wax.

Fun Fact: Given the popularity of Scandinavian design, many bunk beds from this region use natural oil finishes to accentuate the wood grain.

1.3 Check for Color

Color changes in wood can hint at its finish type. Polyurethane and varnish often darken the wood, bringing out deeper tones. These finishes are used to add robustness to everyday furniture such as beds. Conversely, wax and oil finishes maintain or slightly enhance the wood's natural color. You might notice more pronounced, natural wood grain patterns with these finishes, which is ideal for showcasing the wood's innate beauty.

Remember:

• Darkened Tones: Likely polyurethane or varnish.
• Natural or Enhanced Grain: Indicates wax or oil.

Pro-tip: Compare a hidden or less-exposed part of the wood to the visible part. Differences in color can aid in identifying the finish type.

Use these strategies to confidently identify the finish on your wood furniture, ensuring you can maintain it properly and enjoy its beauty for years to come.

2. Testing Methods for Determining Wood Finish

2.1 The Water Drop Test

The water drop test helps to determine if your wood has a finish or if it's bare. Simply place a few drops of water on the wood surface and wait for a couple of minutes. If the water beads up, the wood likely has a finish, such as varnish or polyurethane. If it absorbs into the wood, it is likely unfinished or the finish is worn out. You can perform this test on inconspicuous areas, such as under a piece of furniture, to avoid any visible marks.

Pro-tip: This method is great for testing furniture like loft beds or computer desks as it is non-intrusive and easy to clean.

Additionally, the water drop test can offer clues about the age of the wood finish. Older finishes tend to absorb water more readily, indicating that they may need reapplication or refinishing. However, always follow up with repairs or refinishing if the test shows absorption, especially to preserve valuable furniture and prevent moisture damage.

2.2 The Solvent Test

The solvent test is a straightforward way to determine the type of wood finish. You can use different types of solvents to identify the finish. For example, denatured alcohol will dissolve shellac but will not affect polyurethane or varnish. To perform this test, dampen a cloth with the solvent and rub it on a small, hidden area of the wood. If the finish dissolves or softens, it's likely that you have shellac. If there is no reaction, try lacquer thinner; if it dissolves with lacquer thinner, then it's lacquer.

Pro-tip: Always conduct these tests in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes.

Be sure to use the appropriate solvent for your test to avoid damaging your furniture. This is particularly important for items like computer desks that you use regularly and can't easily replace. It also helps you choose the right products for refinishing or touching up your furniture, saving you time and money.

2.3 The Scratch Test

The scratch test is useful for quickly identifying the hardness and durability of a wood finish. Use your fingernail or a coin to lightly scratch an inconspicuous area of the wood surface. If it scratches easily, the finish is likely a soft finish like wax. Scratches can be harder to observe on thick finishes like polyurethane or varnish, which tend to offer more resistance. This test is especially handy for assessing high-traffic furniture.

Pro-tip: Always perform this test in an area that is not easily visible to avoid permanent damage.

Conducting the scratch test provides insights into the maintenance needs of your furniture. For instance, loft beds often require durable finishes to withstand daily use by children or teens. Knowing the type of finish can help you choose the best cleaning products and care routines to keep your furniture looking new for years to come.

3. Deciding on the Next Steps After Identifying the Finish

3.1 How to Care for Each Type of Finish

Properly caring for your wood finish ensures its longevity and maintains its appearance. If your wood has a wax finish, keep it polished by buffing it regularly with a soft cloth. You may need to reapply a new coat of wax every 6-12 months. Wax finishes provide a warm, low-luster sheen.

For varnished finishes, dust the surface with a damp cloth and dry it immediately to avoid water spots. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can dull the finish. If your wood has scratches or appears dull, you may need to reapply a thin layer of varnish to renew its shine.

Care tips for different finishes:

• Oil finishes: Wipe off dust and apply a fresh coat of oil every few months.
• Lacquer finishes: Use a soft, damp cloth for cleaning and avoid water or alcohol-based cleaners.
• Shellac finishes: Clean with a dry cloth and touch up with shellac as needed.

Identifying your wood finish will help you choose the right care products. Regular cleaning and maintenance tailored to each type will preserve your furniture’s look and functionality for years.

3.2 When to Refinish

Knowing when to refinish your wood is crucial for maintaining its beauty and function. If the wood is severely discolored, has deep scratches, or the finish is peeling, it might be time to strip and refinish. Start by sanding down the surface to remove the old finish, then apply the new one based on your preference.

Signs you need to refinish:

• Discoloration: The wood looks faded or has water stains.
• Peeling: The finish is coming off in areas.
• Rough texture: The surface feels uneven despite regular cleaning.

Refinishing can revive even the most worn-down pieces. This process involves stripping the old finish, sanding until smooth, and applying your chosen finish. Depending on how frequently the furniture is used, refinishing might be necessary every few years.

3.3 Professional Consultation vs DIY

Choosing between professional help or a DIY approach depends on your project's scope and your experience level. Professional refinishing services can handle intricate woodwork, ensure a smooth finish, and offer a variety of finishes tailored to your furniture's needs. They are ideal for valuable or antique pieces that require expert care.

Benefits of professional refinishing:

• Expertise: Professionals bring knowledge and experience.
• Quality: Higher likelihood of an even and lasting finish.
• Convenience: Saves time and effort, especially for large projects.

For smaller or less valuable items, you might choose the DIY route. This approach allows for personalization and can be cost-effective. Make sure to follow instructions carefully and use the right tools to avoid damaging the wood.

Advantages of DIY refinishing:

• Cost savings: No need to pay for professional labor.
• Customization: Create exactly the look you want.
• Learning experience: Gain skills for future projects.

Knowing the pros and cons of each option will help you decide the best course of action for restoring your wood furniture.

Understanding the type of finish on your wood and how to maintain it can ensure its longevity and appearance. Regular maintenance, timely refinishing, and choosing between professional help and a DIY approach are all decisions that will keep your wood in top condition.

Want to preserve and enhance your furniture’s beauty? Check out Scanica's selection of high-quality wood care products and furniture refinishing services at Scanica US.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you determine the type of finish of wood?

Look at the shine, feel the texture, and check for color or use a simple test like the solvent test to determine the type of finish.

How to tell if wood finish is oil or water based?

Rub a small amount of denatured alcohol on the wood. Water-based finishes will dissolve, while oil-based finishes will not.

How to tell if wood is finished or unfinished?

Drop a small amount of water on the wood. If it beads up, it's finished. If it soaks in, the wood is unfinished.

How do I know what finish my hardwood is?

Test a hidden spot with a bit of acetone. If it dissolves, you have a lacquer or shellac finish. If not, it's likely varnish or polyurethane.