HOW TO GUIDE: WOOD SURFACES

Follow the description on the tin. Interior Varnish should not be used outside as they will not have suitable UV resistance and characteristics to withstand the elements. Floor Varnishes might be too hard and prone to cracking if used on exterior wood that is likely to need some flexibility, and it is likely to degrade in the increased UV light. A Marine Varnish will not be hard enough for use on a high traffic floor and wear out faster that is should. 

• Suitable Nova product
• Sandpaper to remove old varnish and paint
• Nova 8 / Nova 11 to remove old varnish and paint
• Scrubbing brush / scraper to remove blackened wood and wood rot
• Washing soda & warm water to remove blackened wood and wood rot
• Clean paint brush

• The type of wood being treated
• Whether the wood has been previously sealed or treated
• If the previous varnish, paint or sealer needs to be removed
• The rate at which the wood absorbs the liquids
• The type of varnish or sealer required

• Wood requires protection against changes in temperature and humidity
• UV from sunlight and rain are also damaging to unprotected wood
• Wood also requires protection from wood borer and mildew which destroys its strength and durability
• Wood requires protection from physical damaging resulting from shock and abrasion

Before you start to apply any varnish, ensure that the surface is well prepared. Varnish accentuates rather than hides marks, unwanted stains and bumps.  Sand the surface down with a medium or course grit sandpaper before filling any cracks. Then sand down again with a medium grit paper.

Dust and varnish do not mix. Ensure the surface is dust free before applying another coat. Use a dry cloth or paint brush to remove all dust.

Apply your first coat with the specified applicator. Unlike paint, varnishes and stains are designed to soak into the wood. Varnish can be applied with a brush (which is more typical) a roller or lint free cloth. If you are planning to use a roller use one with a short pile.  Apply with the grain to get a smooth and even finish. 

Once the coat has been applied and has dried, it then has to be keyed (rubbed down lightly) and a second coat and third coat is then applied. 

• A poorly prepared surface will lead to a poor finish.
• Ensure the surface is free from all dirt, dust, grease and oil.
• New Wood needs to be completely dry before applying any protective coatings.
• Previously treated surfaces-all loose and flaking paint must be removed by sanding or with Nova 8 Novastrip.
• Always sand in the direction of the grain, on a flat surface, using long straight strokes. For rounded surfaces such as legs, be sure to sand in the direction of the grain.
• Severely weathered surfaces may require deeper sanding to remove dry rot.
• Less weathered surfaces may be restored by brushing on a mixture of 1 part washing soda to10 parts warm water. Leave on the surface for 10-30 minutes and remove the sludge with a scrubbing brush or scraper.
• Always stir contents thoroughly with a wide, flat stirrer, such as a wooden ruler, before and during use.
• Do not shake cans as this action will aerate the contents and cause bubbles in the coating.