WoodenuKnow.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com and may earn from qualifying purchases.
Don’t you hate it when your cherished furniture slowly loses luster day by day? If you do then spray varnish for wood is a sure-fire way to give new life to your treasured furniture. It can be used on any type of wood, whether it’s been damaged by the sun or stained from rain.
The best spray varnish for wood is ideal if you want to maintain your garden furniture or fix up any damage that has been caused over time.
In this article, we will discuss various spray varnishes for wood, their features, buying guide and general FAQs.
Minwax Polyurethane Spray Varnish for Wood
Rust-Oleum Marine Spray Varnish for Wood
Montana Cans Clear Semi-Gloss Spray varnish for wood
8 Best Spray Varnish for Wood
When you choose a paint or a varnish for a project, you need to know about its features and quality. A good quality paint or varnish must be able to protect the surface finish of the wood.
The following is a list of the most effective spray varnish for wood that you can use as an alternative to regular paint.
1. Minwax Polyurethane Spray Varnish for Wood
The brand Minwax manufactures wood care and finishing products. From protection to preparation, maintenance, cleaning to repair, Minwax makes and keeps wood beautiful.
This Minwax fast-drying polyurethane is a great product to use if you want to protect your wood. With this spray, you will get a nice semi-gloss finish that can be used outdoors as well as indoors.
The Minwax Polyurethane Spray Varnish for Wood is a great product to use to provide durable protection for your interior wood surfaces. Aerosol can make it easier to apply, and it dries quickly to create a beautiful finish.
This lacquer for wood is one of the most durable coatings for wood protection. It is ideal for woodworking, furniture, cabinets, doors, and floors. One 11.5 fluid ounces can be enough to cover a lot of surface area on different pieces of wood.
It comes with a small nozzle that allows you to control the spray pattern and be able to apply it evenly on all surfaces.
This lacquer for wood provides an easy and convenient way to achieve an excellent finish on your wood projects. It is fast drying and delivers a high-quality finish that will look pretty nice.
Furthermore, it is easy to apply, requiring no special skills or equipment. You simply need to spray it on and allow it to dry. The finish is also easy-care, meaning you will not have to spend a lot of time maintaining it.
Highlighted Features:
- Provides durable protection for your interior wood surfaces
- Aerosol can make it easier to apply
- Dries quickly to create a beautiful finish
- Produces a semi-gloss finish
- Small nozzle for controlled spray pattern application
- Easy-care finish with good protection
2. Minwax Polycrylic Protective Varnish Spray for Wood
Minwax spray for wood is a clear satin aerosol can that provides a protective finish for wood. It dries quickly and can be applied easily. Moreover, it prevents water damage, scratches, and stains.
The Minwax Polycrylic Protective Varnish Spray for Wood is provided as a clear topcoat protection spray that helps to keep your wood looking beautiful while protecting it against scratches, dirt, and more.
It’s perfect for use on interior surfaces and provides an excellent finish that will keep your furniture and décor looking great. This wood protection spray from Minwax is perfect for giving your wood a clear, durable finish.
Overall Minwax oil-based stains and water-based stains, as well as on all types of wood, can be applied. Whether you’re looking to protect light woods like maple, ash, and birch, or darker woods like cherry and mahogany, this spray varnish is the perfect way to do it.
This product is an excellent way to finish wood projects with a sleek and classic look. It not only protects the wood but also gives it a satin sheen that is subtle and attractive.
The varnish is also non-ambering, non-yellowing, and low in odor. This makes it an ideal choice for anyone looking for a quality finish that doesn’t have any negative side effects.
It is a water-based wood finish that is easy to clean up with soap and water. This makes it less stressful to deal with any spills or big messes. It also allows you to easily apply the finish to your woodworking projects.
Highlighted Features:
- Offers an attractive satin sheen
- Water-based for low smell and easy cleanup
- Appropriate for all types of wood projects
- Non-yellowing, non-ambering, and low odor
- Provides a protective finish against stains, scratches, and damage
3. Minwax Helmsman Spar Urethane Spray Varnish for Wood
Minwax 11.5 oz aerosol varnish is a proprietary urethane-based gloss coating, with a solvent carrier for easy application, and is the number one brand in America for quality finishing products both interior and exterior.
The Minwax Helmsman Spar Urethane Spray Varnish for Wood is a great product to use if you want to protect your wooden projects from the weather and moisture.
Its UV blockers help to keep the wood looking its best, and the finish will expand and contract with the wood as temperatures and seasons change.
This varnish for wood is a versatile application that can be used to provide a protective sealant on the aforementioned applications. The gloss varnish not only provides protection but also gives your wood project a finished and polished look.
Sprays can be used on exterior doors, window sills, and bar tops. It’s also a good choice for furniture on a patio. The product’s quality makes it easy to use and produces a beautiful finish that is expected of the Minwax brand.
It is resistant to chipping, checking, and cracking, making it a great choice for a variety of projects. This varnish also dries quickly and evenly, providing a beautiful finish that will be durable.
Moreover, urethane is a perfect finish for projects that will be exposed to continuous sunlight. You can use it to protect furniture from UV damage and fading so your project always looks great.
Highlighted Features:
- Can be used on wood and a variety of other surfaces
- Provides durability and resistance to sunlight and moisture
- Cures quickly, making it ideal for all types of weather conditions
- Helps protect against mildew, stains, wear-and-tear, and fading
4. Rust-Oleum Marine Spray Varnish for Wood
This Marine Spar Varnish from Rust-Oleum is a great product to use on your wood projects. You will keep your wood looking great and durable with this finish. It’s also UV resistant, so it will help protect your wood from the sun’s harmful rays.
A varnish such as this is ideal for wooden surfaces that are above the waterline, such as trim, furniture, and railings. This Marine Spray Varnish for Wood is designed to protect the wood from weathering and fading, and it can also help to restore the appearance of aging wood.
It’s a durable product that will last through the seasons, and it can cover up to 150 sq ft in a day or two. This is a good option when you’re looking for a durable finish that will stand the test of time.
Designed to provide excellent resistance to UV rays, salt, and mildew, this varnish is a durable coating. A variety of surfaces can be treated with this product, including wood, metal, and plastic. Compared to conventional finishes, this one is twice as durable.
It is a great option for those who are looking for a heavy-duty finish that will protect their belongings from the elements. This varnish is crystal-clear, which means that it will not alter the color of your wood. It also provides maximum protection against scratches and wears.
Highlighted Features:
- Brings out the natural beauty of wood
- UV resistant to prevent sun damage
- Crystal clear finish that won’t alter the color
- Repels moisture and resists mildew, salt, chemicals, and scratching
- Provides an extra layer of protection
5. TotalBoat Gleam Marine Spray Varnish for Wood
If you’re looking for a quality varnish for your wood, TotalBoat varnish is an excellent option. It comes in both gloss and satin polyurethane finishes, so you can choose the look that you want.
TotalBoat Gleam Marine Spray Varnish for Wood is a rich and beautiful amber color that is made from premium tung oil and phenolic resins. It’s ideal to use in any interior surfaces or exterior application and will give your wood a warm, natural look.
This varnish is an ideal outdoor sealer and waterproof finish for boats, canoes, kayaks, and other outdoor wooden structures. It provides a durable, excellent finish that protects against the elements while maintaining the natural beauty of the wood.
When it comes to protecting your wood, TotalBoat varnish is an easy and efficient way to do so. This product is self-leveling, so you won’t have to worry about any brush strokes being visible.
In addition, it dries quickly, so you can apply up to 3 coats within one day. And because it’s cured, the varnish remains flexible and expands and contracts with the wood during seasonal humidity and temperature changes.
This varnish offers a high gloss or satin finish to the wood. The varnish is available in pint, quart, and gallon sizes and can be applied with a brush or roller.
It is also possible to spray the varnish using xylene. The coverage of the varnish is 250 sq. ft./gallon.
Highlighted Features:
- Excellent water protection for outdoor applications
- Durable and flexible finish
- Offers a high gloss or satin finish
- Ideal for canoes, kayaks, and boats (interior and exterior)
- Can be applied with a brush or roller
- Efficient and quick drying
6. Deft Inc. Interior Clear Wood Spray Varnish
This product is a clear wood finish that offers protection against dust, dirt, and spills. It will not yellow over time nor does it leave any sticky residue. Aerosols can provide a coating that is resistant to chipping, scratches, and dents.
The Deft Inc. Interior Clear Wood Spray Varnish dries in record time, making it the perfect choice for projects that need to be completed as quickly as possible. It also provides a beautiful finish that will make your project look professional and high-quality.
Deft is a varnish for use on wood. It can be applied to interior furniture, cabinets, and other wood surfaces. The product has a high-quality construction that can improve the appearance of any surface where it’s used.
This product is a clear wood brushing lacquer that is most effective for interior wood and metal surfaces. There are 100% nitrocellulose varnishes in this product, which provide an elegant sheen. It’s easy to apply and gives great results.
Clear crystal lacquer provides a durable shine to wood and is non-yellowing. It can also be used on doors, trim, and many other wood surfaces. Deft Inc. varnish for wood is easy to apply and dries quickly. It is also resistant to water and alcohol.
It is available in a satin finish, which gives a beautiful sheen to wood without being too glossy. The varnish is also non-toxic and can be used on furniture that will come into contact with food.
Highlighted Features:
- 100% nitrocellulose varnish
- Durable finish resists water and alcohol
- Protects against chipping, scratches, and dents
- Satin sheen allows for a beautiful finished look
- Fast-drying, easy application
7. Montana Cans Clear Semi-Gloss Spray varnish for wood
Montana Cans clear semi-gloss spray paint is designed to protect and enhance wood surfaces. It dries quickly to a hard, durable finish that resists scratches and chipping.
The Montana Cans varnish is a great way to protect your wooden furniture and other wooden objects. Varnish comes in a variety of colors, so you can choose the one that best matches your decor.
This Montana Cans Clear Semi-Gloss spray varnish for wood is perfect for protecting wood and giving it a beautiful finish. It’s easy to apply, and it dries quickly. It’s also non-toxic, so it’s safe to use around children and pets.
You want to use Montana Cans on paper, charcoal drawing, canvas, fiber, photos, wood, and other surfaces. So you can use it on things like children’s toys.
The semi-gloss finish on the Montana Cans varnish for wood provides a beautiful shine that is perfect for wood surfaces. This varnish is 100% lead and CFC-free so it is safe for children.
In addition to protecting the shelf against dust and dirty hands, Montana Cans varnish for wood is also easy to clean with a damp cloth.
It’s made from an acrylic base, making it acid-free and ideal for use with arts and crafts. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hobbyist, this varnish is a great option for your next DIY project.
Highlighted Features:
- Designed for protection against scratches, chips, and wear
- Dries in approximately 24 hours to a protective film
- It’s archival-safe and resistant to moisture
- Acrylic base is acid-free and water wash-up
- 100% lead and CFC-free
8. Rust-Oleum Clear Varnish Satin Spray for Wood
If you’re looking for a finish that provides both protection and shine, Rust-Oleum varnish is a great option. Wood will remain beautiful and durable if you use this product and it dries quickly.
The Rust-Oleum Clear Varnish Satin Spray for Wood is a high-quality product that is perfect for use on furniture, doors, cabinets, and paneling. It provides a beautiful finish that will protect your wood from scratches, fading, and other damage.
While this product is not recommended for floors and exterior surfaces, it will give your interior wood surfaces a very beautiful finish.
Rust-Oleum Varnish for wood is formulated with a higher clarity finish than polyurethane. It also dries to the touch in only one hour, covering up to 290 square feet.
This product provides a durable, high-gloss finish that is resistant to scratches and abrasion. It has a deep wood grain appearance that is easily maintained with regular use of the product.
In just 30 minutes, this product dries, which means you don’t have to wait long before you can start using your furniture and decorations.
In addition, you don’t need to sand between coats so the process is quick and easy. Plus, the final result is crystal-clear so your wood will look great!
Highlighted Features:
- Provides a deep, high-gloss shine
- Minimal preparation required
- Dries in only 30 minutes
- Covers up to 290 square feet
- High resistance to scratches and abrasion
- Perfect for furniture, doors, cabinets, paneling
These are our top picks for the perfect spray varnish for wood. While there are plenty of great options available, these three products have what it takes to give your wood surfaces a beautiful finish with low maintenance and minimal preparation.
If you would like to see more information about how to choose the right product, keep reading below.
How to Choose a Spray Varnish for Wood?
To choose a spray varnish for wood, you need to think about what your goals are. Not all products will give you the same finish, and not all finishes will provide the level of protection that is best for your needs.
The following are some things to consider when choosing the best lacquer paint product for your needs.
Toughness & Protection
The type of finish that you want will determine what level of protection is necessary. If you are looking for a high-gloss shine, then you need wood lacquer spray that will not be easily scuffed or scratched.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a more rustic look, then you are looking for wood lacquer spray that will allow the natural beauty of your wood to shine through.
Before choosing one lacquer paint over another, consider what level of protection is most important for your project. You may also want to look into lacquer paint that provides different levels of protection based on their use.
For example, there are lacquer for wood that provide a low-gloss finish for occasional light use, and high-gloss finishes for furniture and flooring.
Appearance of Wood
Every type of wood is unique in its appearance. It is very difficult to predict exactly what your wood will look like once you apply a protective finish. Before choosing a lacquer for wood, consider trying it on a few test pieces.
You may find that one spray lacquer provides the luster and shine you are looking for, but doesn’t cover up any imperfections in your wood.
While this may be great for some projects, others will benefit from a spray lacquer that provides even coverage and makes all of the grain and natural markings disappear.
Ease of Application
The best spray varnish for wood is one that dries quickly, provides an even coat, and doesn’t require you to sand between coats. Depending on the project you are doing, these three factors may or may not be your priority in choosing lacquer for wood.
Some people only want the added protection of a spray lacquer that adds a layer of protection against scratches and water damage. However, other people want a spray lacquer that allows them to complete their projects quickly so they can enjoy the process.
If you are looking for wood lacquer paint with minimal preparation and only apply one coat, then you should choose a wood lacquer paint that doesn’t require sanding between coats.
These wood lacquer finish typically dry within 15 minutes so you don’t have to wait long before you can apply your second coat of lacquer for wood.
Types of Wood Lacquer Spray
Typically there are 3 different types of wood lacquer spray, and they are given below:
1. Nitrocellulose Lacquer
Nitrocellulose lacquer is a fast-drying solvent-based paint that provides a natural shine and lays down smoothly. Despite being applied in multiple coats, the pure nitrocellulose paint remains thin and dense. This makes the nitrocellulose lacquer strong and durable.
2. Acrylic Lacquer
The most popular type of paint is acrylic lacquer because it has been able to give cars a showroom gloss. This lacquer for wood can also be buffed after being applied to make it even shinier.
Many automotive restoration shops prefer to use acrylic lacquer paint because this lacquer for wood can be applied quickly and has an uncanny ability to adhere to metal surfaces.
3. Catalyzed lacquers
When it comes to the most effective wood lacquer, catalyzed wood lacquer is a clear choice. This type of wood lacquer dries quickly and cures properly with the help of a catalyst. Such as:
- pre-catalyzed wood lacquer
- post-catalyzed wood lacquer
The catalyzed lacquer is ideal for furniture restoration and woodworking projects, as catalyzed lacquer produces an attractive and durable finish. Plus, catalyzed lacquer is fast-drying which means you’ll spend less time on the project using catalyzed lacquer.
How to Apply Spray Lacquer to Wood?
There are a few steps you have to follow before spraying wood lacquer on your wood furniture.
- Prepare the wooden surface of your piece by wiping it down with a tack cloth or a lint-free, clean rag soaked in mineral spirits. You need to remove any dirt, wood filler and grime from the wood surface. Also, make sure that there is no moisture left behind in the wood surface.
- Sand it down gently with 120-grit sandpaper to smooth out the wooden surfaces and remove any rough patches. This way you can prepare your wood for a better finish.
Therefore, be sure to get rid of any scratches or nicks that may interfere with the paint you’ll be applying later on.
- Degrease it with a tack cloth or mineral spirits. A clean wooden surface is essential because this step will allow the lacquer to bond properly and leave behind a smooth finish.
- Ensure you have adequate ventilation during this process, as it can be rather stinky without proper ventilation.
Also, don’t forget that all of the products listed above contain chemicals that may be hazardous to you and your family. Therefore, if possible, do this step in an area that is free from children and pets.
- Use a lacquer that has already been mixed. If you do not have any pre-mixed wood lacquer, then consider buying wood lacquer that has the paint and lacquer thinner already mixed together in one can.
This makes it easier to paint with because all of the necessary ingredients are in the same container.
Frequently Asked Questions
There are a few questions that are asked by many people often. Some of them are given below:
1. What is the Difference Between Lacquer and Varnish?
Varnish is a more versatile product than wood lacquer. Varnish can be used on both wood and metal surfaces. Lacquer is only appropriate for wooden surfaces.
Lacquer is solvent-based and has many benefits. It dries quickly, which means it’s perfect for furniture, doors, and other projects where you need a quick finish. It also creates a smooth and even layer of protection, which makes it easier to clean and maintain than some other types of varnish.
Varnish (water-based) is glossy, matte, satin sheen. Varnish comes in latex or oil-based finishes. Oil-based varnishes are often used for metal or wooden surfaces whilst water-based varnishes are frequently used with masonry surfaces.
2. Can I Spray Varnish Over Painted Wood?
The answer is yes and these coatings are out there such as shellac, urethane, and polyurethane. Water-based varnish is the best option for painted wood because it’s flexible and durable.
3. Can I Spray Clear Coat on Wood?
Yes. There are several options for clear coat spray available but you should know that a clear coat should be sprayed on top of the paint, primer, or stain because it will not adhere properly to bare wood.
4. Is It Better to Use Lacquer or Polyurethane?
Polyurethane is a finishing product that is resistant to scratches and other interference. It has superior durability and leaves behind a thick, resilient coating.
Lacquer offers durable properties but is more susceptible to being scratched or discolored over time. Lacquer also penetrates the wooden surface, leaving little to no residue on the uppermost layers of timber after application.
Conclusion:
Woodworking enthusiasts know that the best way to protect their work is by applying a quality spray varnish. What you might not realize, however, is how to choose which type of spray varnish will be right for your project and provide the perfect finish!
We have covered the best spray varnish for wood types available on the market today as well as some tips about selecting one. We hope this article was helpful about choosing an appropriate paint or coating for any woodwork projects!
