There are many tricks that professional decorators use to ensure that we deliver a level of finish and durability in our work that sets us apart from the average DIYer – and one such trick is the application of decorator’s varnish.
For that pro finish, preparation is absolutely key – which is why we mention it so often in our blogs! But equally important is the peace of mind you get from knowing your decorating exploits are going to stand the test of time. Decorator’s varnish helps to provide a longer-term result where it’s most needed.
What is decorator’s varnish?
Essentially, it’s a varnish that you can apply to nearly all surfaces to provide a strong, waterproof layer of protection without impacting on the existing colour and texture. It’s a water-based varnish that’s available in three finishes – gloss, satin and dead flat – making it an ideal solution for a number of decorating jobs.
Where should I consider using it?
There are so many potential uses for this product, but these are the most common:
- Apply to wallpaper in your children’s bedroom to create a washable and durable protective layer – no more headaches about crayon marks and dirty hand prints!
- Apply to high traffic areas such as the wallpaper up the side of the stairs – this is an area of the house that we’re often asked to come back and reapply paint to, but decorator’s varnish makes this largely unnecessary
- Perhaps you want to use an expensive statement wallpaper in your bathroom, but it’s not waterproof – a couple of coats of varnish will seal it in and protect you from expensive mistakes
- Painted your kitchen cupboards and found that the paint scrapes off too easily? Apply a couple of coats to create a rock hard and washable protective layer
- Protect wooden furniture without altering the finish or colour
- Apply to chalk painted walls to seal in and prevent marks on such a soft surface
- Can be used to seal plaster
As you can see, decorator’s varnish is almost a cure-all for the DIYer!
How do you use it?
Because it’s water-based rather than oil-based, decorator’s varnish is very easy to apply without streaks or runs – just use a good quality brush or roller and apply the varnish in smooth strokes. Choose the dead flat version for wallpaper and painted walls, but always try a small test application somewhere inconspicuous first to ensure that the varnish doesn’t alter the colour – it should dry undetected, but there can occasionally be a slight colour change. Better safe than sorry!
In kitchens, where durability is more important, apply a coat of satin followed by dead flat – the result will be a rock hard scuff-resistant layer.
The varnish is usually touch dry in 15-20 minutes and ready for a second coat after an hour – that’s the beauty of water-based products!
We hope that this has given you the confidence to try decorator’s varnish for yourself, but if you’re not keen on tackling your decorating alone and if you live in the Leeds area, please feel free to call us to arrange a free estimate.