A
clear coat is the best way to protect a painted surface, and ensure
that it retains its look for an extended period of time. It can be
applied to almost any painted surface to enhance its life and look. A
painting work done without applying a clear coat is an incomplete job.
Venetian
Plaster is the only case in which a clear coat is not used. This is
because the product, with its waxing and burnishing, has all the gloss
it needs; it requires no additional protection. Listed below, for your
benefit, are the basics of clear coats.
What is a clear coat?
A
clear coat is a clear varnish, applied on top of a painted surface. It
dries into a hard transparent shell that is invisible, and serves to
protect the paint from damage and wear. The clear coat, when used on a
faux finish can make it look richer and deeper. Any imperfection in the
clear coat can affect the appearance of the paint finish.
Polyurethane varnishes
Polyurethane
clear coats are tough and long lasting, but they have a significant
drawback. They tend to develop a yellow or amber tinge over time that
can change the look of the paint applied below. This type of clear coat
is typically used for exterior surfaces, which are subject to harsh
conditions; it is often applied over darker shades where any yellowing
will not be noticeable.
Acrylic or water-based varnishes
Acrylic
clear coats are water based; they are not as strong as polyurethane
varnishes. However, they do not develop any tint with passage of time;
so, the look of the paint under the clear coat remains unaffected. These
are most commonly used indoors, and are especially good for light
colors; any tinting of the varnish will change the shade of the painted
surface.
Different sheen levels
Acrylic
clear coats are available in various sheen levels. In general, satin
and low luster sheens are the most popular. However, there is no reason
why a higher gloss varnish cannot be applied, if that is the look
desired.
The
amount of sheen is a matter of personal taste: it does not affect the
protection that the clear coat provides. If no shine is required, dead
flat clear coats would be the choice.
The antique look
The
idea of not having a shine may seem strange, but it is useful when a
faux finish is required for an aged or old look. For example applying a
dead flat clear coat to a wooden bar can give it an antique look.
The
clear coat is an integral part of the painting process: if it is not
done properly, the quality of the finish will be adversely affected. At
the same time, even the best of clear coats cannot cover up any painting
defects: it can only protect the paint that has been applied.
It
is possible for you to paint and apply clear coats yourself, but the
results will not be a good as those of the works of professionals. This
is simply because the professionals have the experience and expertise to
identify exactly what type of paint and which clear coat should be applied to a given surface; they know for sure that is what would get the kind of finish, the client wants.
