What kind of paint can I use on wood? You may be thinking of giving your interior woodwork a new lease of life or adding a touch of color to it. On the other hand, you want to avoid the sanding phase because of the time and materials it requires, or to avoid invading your room with dust.
Fortunately, it is possible to paint furniture, parquet, stairs, and all types of interior woodwork without sanding. Follow our guide!
What Kind of Paint Can I Use On Wood
Why Paint Over Wood Without Sanding?
Lack of time, the desire to avoid effort, fear of dust, and lack of suitable material are good reasons for not wanting to sand wood before painting it.
There are suitable paints to make your renovation project a success. They have the advantage of being easy to prepare, simple to apply and clean, and quick to dry.
However, you should know that it is not easy to paint horizontal wooden surfaces without sanding them first.
What Paint Should I Use On Wood Without Sanding It?
If you want to paint or repaint wood without sanding it, you will have to opt for water-based paint. This is a water-based emulsion or dispersion paint that you will dilute in water, hence its name.
It is ideal for painting unsanded wood. However, you will notice that some surfaces, especially those already painted or varnished, will need a small surface gritting. This is not sanding, but a light rubbing to improve adhesion.
There are several types of waterborne paint.
What Kind of Paint Can I Use On Wood
The multi-surface paint allows you to paint all types of wood, including varnishes, laminates, and melamine, without sanding. Resistant and washable, it clings very well to smooth surfaces, both horizontal and vertical, for a successful and harmonious result without effort.
The Resin
Perfect for painting wooden surfaces of any kind without sanding, whether vertical or horizontal, the resin is made up of a mixture of a colored resin and a binder base. It is very easy to apply with a roller, but you will need two to three coats for optimum coverage.
Raw, Varnished, or Painted Wood Paint
This type of paint adheres very well to all types of wood without prior sanding, including those already painted or varnished, as well as laminated or melamine wood. Its particularity, however, is that it is only suitable for vertical surfaces; it is not possible to paint horizontal surfaces with this type of paint.
Available in a satin or gloss version, it has the advantage of being easily washable (being in aqueous phase) and is self-sufficient. Solid and resistant, you do not need to apply finishing touches.
On the other hand, a poor application can lead to the formation of blisters or drips; since the result is not always satisfactory. Professionals will generally advise you to opt for other paint formulas.
Paint for Furniture Renovation
Very resistant, this paint has the same characteristics as the paint for rough, varnished, or painted wood, with almost no details. Only available in a satin finish, it is easy to wash, and you can use it to paint all types of wood, as well as credenzas, tiles, and earthenware.
Be careful though! The different types of paint mentioned are only for interior woods. As outdoor woods are subject to climatic hazards, temperature variations, humidity and parasites, you cannot apply them without a prior sanding step.
Likewise, you cannot paint furniture or interior woodwork that has been waxed or oiled with these paints. You must properly sand these surfaces, and them cover them with a suitable undercoat before painting.
How Do I Paint Wood Without Sanding It?
Before you start, make sure you have the right equipment.
Ideally, it is advisable to pass sandpaper very lightly over the surface in order to make it easier for the paint to adhere. This is not sanding, but brushing. Remember to remove dust with methylated spirits if it is greasy.
Apply your paint to the surfaces you want to paint. We recommend a roller to spread the paint well on flat surfaces. Moreover, use a brush for corners and more irregular spaces. Stretch the paint well to obtain a smooth result, without blisters or drips.
Allow to dry thoroughly. If the wood needs a second coat, proceed in the same way.
What Budget Should I set Aside For This Type of Paint?
Paint that allows you to paint wood without sanding it usually costs more per liter than traditional paint. The average prices you are given may vary depending on the make, model, quantity, and where you buy it. For example:
- Multi-surface paint costs between $25 and $50 per liter on average
- The resin, the most expensive solution, is sold at a minimum price of $100 per liter
- For a paint for raw, varnished or painted wood, count at least $20 per liter; this solution remains the most economical
- The painting of furniture renovation will be charged from $30 to $40 per liter
