There are a few things you can do while shopping for new coasters or fixing up an existing set to make sure they endure a long time. The finest methods for maintaining your wooden coasters are detailed in this article.
Oil
Coasters made of wood should be oiled regularly to prevent water damage. When wood absorbs water, it expands and expands, eventually cracking. Natural wood oil is used to seal wood against the effects of dampness.
Oils extracted from wood contain natural qualities that feed the wood from inside. Furthermore, they restore the skin's natural oils, which are often depleted over time. Oil can give different types of wood a shiny finish and preserve them from dampness.
Before applying wood oil, a base coat should be applied to the wood to improve its receptivity to the oil. Apply the oil to the wood's surface using a gentle cloth or brush. Apply it in circular motions perpendicular to the grain of the wood. Let it to dry for at least a day before adding a second layer.
Several oils function as wood preservatives. For example, tung oil has a natural drying effect. It can withstand rain and snow better than shellac. It doesn't clog the wood's pores and it doesn't cause cancer.
Varnish
You can make your wooden coasters waterproof and durable using varnish and polyurethane, which is useful whether you want to use them outside or not. If you want your coasters to last as long as possible, you should give them a protective coating at least once a month.
As a sealer, varnish is ideal for protecting wooden coasters from moisture and ultraviolet radiation. Moreover, varnish is simple to use. Use a brush or a foam roller to evenly cover the area with varnish.
Coasters made from wood can also be varnished for use with fire. Condensation and water stains are two common problems that this solves. It's possible, though, that the price tag could surprise you.
Varnish comes in a wide range of formulations, from water-based to oil-based. Applying and drying times for water-based polyurethanes are shorter. The protection they provide, however, is inferior to that of oil-based polyurethanes. Wood's inherent hues can be accentuated by using a polyurethane that is oil-based.
Polyurethane
Whether you're investing in a whole new set of wooden coasters or giving your old ones a much-needed facelift, it's vital that you keep them safe from the elements. Many sealants are available for this purpose.
One of the most used sealants is polyurethane. This protective coating may be applied to wood to make it seem glossy and protect it from scratches without affecting its water resistance. It's also simple to use. A foam roller or a brush can be used to apply it. It should be applied in three very thin layers. In comparison to a single, heavy application, this technique will yield a more attractive result.
As an alternative to oil, varnish is frequently used to seal wood coasters. It's simple to use and offers superior protection against moisture. Once it's been applied, it will last for a long time. A paintbrush, spray gun, or a rag can all be used to apply it.
Coasters made from wood can also be sealed with polyurethane oil. It's a bit trickier to apply and takes longer to dry, but it may also add a little color.
Lacquer
It's important to select the perfect finish when preparing wooden coasters, whether for an important event or just to keep them in good condition. For a long-lasting, high-gloss appearance, add multiple coats of lacquer or polyurethane.
The properties of lacquer as a covering for wood make it resistant to wear and dampness. It's a wonderful option for safeguarding wooden coasters because it's long-lasting and simple to apply. You may use a paintbrush or a spray can to apply it. Applying a spar varnish over top is another option.
In contrast to other finishes, lacquer dries rapidly and hardens to a glossy surface. It's a great finish for anything made of wood, including countertops, cabinets, and decorative pieces. It prevents the wood from being damaged by water and stains. Besides from being long-lasting, it's also simple to clean. It comes in a range of textures and sheens, including satin, gloss, and matte. Apply it to sanded or primed wood surfaces.
