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Most durable finish available to nonprofessionals?

August 13, 2013

Q. We got these beautiful dark desks and stools, only to realize that the dark finish chips out pretty easily leaving white marks. Ouch! Is it possible to apply some durable transparent finish on top to protect the paint? I hear acrylic finish is good, but is it possible to apply without expensive professional equipment? Any other suggestions?

Marie V
- Vancouver, BC, Canada

A. Hi Marie. Coatings are not shrink wrap for holding hold inner layers in place, so, if the dark finish lacks adhesion and is flaking off, nothing will help. But for a thicker finish to give some abrasion and impact resistance, I'd try polyurethane spar varnish which can be easily brushed or sprayed on. Good luck.

Regards,

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
August 13, 2013

August 15, 2013

Q. Does copper fare worse than bronze outdoors in a WET climate ? I have been told that the tarnish/patina which develops over years on copper can be an unattractive blue/green, whereas on bronze a more pleasing greenish/black. Also that copper is likely to tarnish quicker than bronze ? Is this information correct ? Or do both metals react in same way, in approximately the same length of time ?
Thank you

Alexander Black
- Glasgow, UK

August 16, 2013

A. The color of the copper patina seems to depend on the alloy. There are some roofs that are gree and brown and others a dark brown. Except for the green from the solder operation.

James Watts
- Navarre, Florida

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