Types of Polyurethane: What Are They?
To understand the differences between matte and satin polyurethane for your table, you must first understand the basics of polyurethanes. Polyurethane is a type of plastic or synthetic resin that is typically used as a sealant and protective material. It can be applied in either liquid or foam form to give surfaces an even, polished finish.
The two main types of polyurethane finishes are matte and satin.
- Matte polyurethane is a flat finish that does not reflect light. It has an even, non-glossy look that is ideal for surfaces that require minimal glare.
- Satin polyurethane, on the other hand, offers a low to medium level of sheen that reflects light. This finish is best suited to surfaces that require a more eye-catching look.
Both finishes offer different levels of protection from wear, dirt, and moisture. Matte polyurethane offers excellent protection, while satin polyurethane is slightly less resistant. The level of protection depends on the type of polyurethane used and how it is applied.
Matte Polyurethane: Advantages and Disadvantages
Matte polyurethane offers several advantages, the most profound of which are:
1. It offers excellent protection from dirt, dust, and wear and tear. Due to its low-gloss finish, matte polyurethane is also highly resistant to scratches and fingerprints.
2. It creates a timeless look that won’t easily go out of style. For years, people have been using matte polyurethane to give their tables a classic look that won’t easily fade.
3. It is easy to apply and maintain, as it does not require frequent polishing or refinishing. It also gives a subtle look that does not draw attention to the table surface.
On the other hand, there are some downsides to using matte polyurethane:
1. It does not reflect light and can make the surface of your table look dull - which is not always desirable.
2. It only provides a certain level of protection - meaning more frequent cleaning and maintenance may be required for heavy-duty use. As it is a flat finish, any scratches or dents will be more obvious;
3. It can be difficult to keep clean as dust and dirt may accumulate in the tiny crevices.
Satin Polyurethane: Advantages and Disadvantages
Satin polyurethane offers several advantages, the most important of which are:
1. It offers a low to medium level of light reflection that can make surfaces look bright and elegant. This finish is especially recommended for dining and kitchen tables, as it can give them a visually appealing look.
2. It is easier to clean than matte polyurethane, as dust will not accumulate in the small crevices - making it ideal for high-traffic areas.
3. It offers excellent protection from dirt, dust, and wear and tear. As the finish has a sheen that reflects light, scratches and fingerprints are less visible than with matte polyurethane.
On the other hand, there are some drawbacks to using satin polyurethane:
1. The satin effect is not always desirable, as it can make surfaces look too eye-catching. This finish is not recommended for traditional or vintage designs, as the gloss may clash with the overall aesthetic.
2. Satin polyurethane provides slightly less protection than matte polyurethane - meaning more frequent cleaning and maintenance may be required.
Overall, both matte and satin polyurethane offer their own unique benefits depending on your needs. If you’re looking for a timeless, classic look that offers excellent protection from dirt and wear, matte polyurethane might be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you want to make your table surface look bright and elegant, satin polyurethane could be the better option.
How To Choose A Polyurethane Wood Finish
When it comes to choosing between matte and satin polyurethane, there are several factors that you should consider. Before making your decision, think about how the table will be used, what aesthetic look you want to achieve, and how much maintenance you are willing to commit to.
- The use of the table should be taken into account. If it is going to be used in a high-traffic area, satin polyurethane may offer better protection against dirt and wear as well as easier cleaning. On the other hand, if the table is intended for a more traditional setting with less frequent use, matte polyurethane may provide the desired look.
- The aesthetic result you want to achieve should also be evaluated. To give the table a classic, timeless look, matte polyurethane is the best choice. However, for a more modern and elegant feel, satin polyurethane may be preferable.
- Finally, the maintenance required should be considered. Both finishes require periodic cleaning and protection from dirt and dust to maintain their appearance - but satin polyurethane may require more frequent maintenance due to its sheen.
Satin Polyurethane Table Finish: Our Top 5
To give you a head start in your search for the perfect satin polyurethane finish, we have put together a list of our top 5 picks. These options have been carefully selected based on their quality and overall performance.
We have also evaluated satin polyurethane table reviews to ensure that each of these products provides the best experience possible.
Reliable Choice: General Finishes Oil Based Gel Topcoat, Satin
The satin wood finish from General Finishes is a reliable choice for any type of furniture surface. This oil-based gel topcoat provides a beautiful, semi-gloss sheen that is easy to clean and maintain.
The product also offers excellent protection against dust, dirt, and wear and tear - making it an ideal option for high-traffic areas. The finish is available in gallon, half-pint, one-pint, and one-quart-size containers.
The oil-based formula penetrates deep into the wood, producing a durable and long-lasting satin finish. It is also easy to touch up or repair in case of scratches or wear over time.
Overall, this product offers superior protection and a beautiful sheen at an affordable price. This makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable satin polyurethane finish.
Pros:
- Easy to apply and clean.
- Highly durable.
- Offers protection from dirt, dust, and wear.
- Available in multiple size bottles.
Cons:
- May need to be reapplied over time.
Economical Option: EcoProCote Eco-Poly Polyurethane Sealer & Floor Finish
The Eco-Poly finish from EcoProCote is an economical option that provides a rich, beautiful sheen. This product offers excellent protection against dirt and wear while still providing a classic look to furniture surfaces.
The product has also been rated highly for its easy application and finishing properties. The finish is available in a variety of sizes, making it more cost-effective for larger projects. For instance, the 1 Gallon costs around $50, and it's also available in a very budget-friendly 5-gallon size bottle.
In addition to the attractive finish, this product provides excellent protection against dirt and wear. It also offers UV light resistance to prevent fading over time - making it an ideal choice for outdoor furniture surfaces.
Pros:
- Affordable.
- Highly durable.
- Offers protection from dirt, dust, and wear.
- Suitable for large projects and outdoor flooring and furniture.
Cons:
- May need to be reapplied over time.
Premium Pick: General Finishes Exterior 450 Water-Based Topcoat
The Satin General Finishes Exterior 450 Water-Based Topcoat is available in 1 Quart size bottle and is a great choice for outdoor furniture surfaces. The product provides superior protection against UV rays, moisture, dirt, and dust - making it an ideal choice for long-term outdoor use.
This topcoat also offers excellent scratch resistance and durability to ensure years of lasting beauty. It can be applied with a brush or roller and can be easily cleaned with mild soap and water.
The product is available in a variety of sheens, ranging from satin to gloss for a custom look. This makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a premium finish at an affordable price.
Pros:
- Highly durable.
- Offers superior protection against UV, dirt, and moisture.
- Offers multiple sheen options.
- Easily applied with a brush or roller.
Cons:
- May need to be reapplied over time.
Fast Drying Option: Rust-Oleum 250241H
Rust-Oleum 250241H Ultimate Spar Urethane Water Based Satin Finish (also available in a half-quart size) provides a fast drying finish with superior protection. This product is designed to resist fading, cracking, and peeling - making it an ideal choice for outdoor surfaces.
The water-based formula dries for 30 minutes with coverage of up to 12 sq. ft. per can. It is easy to apply with a brush, roller, or sprayer and is suitable for use on wood, metal, concrete, and more.
The product also offers excellent UV light resistance - making it an ideal choice for outdoor furniture surfaces. The non yellowing formula also ensures a beautiful finish that will remain vibrant over time.
Pros:
- Fast drying.
- Sun and weather resistant.
- Offers protection from dirt, dust, and wear.
- Excellent UV light resistance.
Cons:
- May need to be reapplied over time.
Gorgeous Chalk Style: Country Chic Paint Store Eco-Friendly Clear Satin Sheen Top Coat
An eco-Friendly Clear Satin Sheen Top Coat is available in 3 sizes from Country Chic Paint Store. This product is designed to provide a beautiful chalky finish that adds texture and depth to furniture surfaces.
Your painted furniture will look professionally finished, contemporary, and easy to clean and wipe down thanks to the lovely satin finish.
You won't notice any fading because Clear Coat doesn't contain any ingredients that can turn yellow. protects your painted furniture with seals to keep its beauty for many years.
The chalk-style finish dries fast and is easy to apply. It's perfect for anyone looking for a quick way to give their furniture a beautiful, high-end look.
Pros:
- Eco-Friendly.
- Seals in color without yellowing.
- Offers a beautiful chalky finish.
- Fast drying.
Cons:
- Dries longer than some other options.
Matte Polyurethane Table Finish: Out Top 5
As to the matte polyurethane table finish, we have studied the most popular wood finishes on the market today to determine the best products for your furniture surfaces. Here are our top 5 picks that you can use to give your table a professional matte finish. Read on if you need a finish that will last for many years and won’t require constant re-coating.
Foolproof Pick: Rust-Oleum Rust-Oleum 287722 Ultra Interior Chalked Paint
Easy cleaning with soap and water is possible thanks to the low-odor/VOC formula. Rust-Oleum 287722 Ultra Interior Chalked Paint offers a foolproof pick for matte polyurethane table finish. This product offers an easy to use, no-sanding/no priming application that is ready in 30 minutes.
The product is available in a variety of colors - and it dries to the touch in only 30 minutes, covering up to 150 square feet, and is easy to use because it only requires one coat. Use to add a vintage look to a variety of interior surfaces, including wood, metal, ceramic, and canvas.
Excellent adhesion, simple application, and little preparation required. protective topcoat that dries to an incredibly matte, smooth, and velvety surface.
Pros:
- Easy to use, no-sanding/no priming.
- Available in a variety of colors.
- Quick drying time.
- Excellent adhesion and preparation required.
Cons:
- The chalk finish might not suit some specific needs.
Versatile Option: Venier Pure Chalk Paint Matte Clear Finish
Utilize our matte transparent paint to enhance the quality of both new and old metal and wood furniture, giving them an enamel coating that makes them appear even more brilliant, polished, and glossy.
Your home's surfaces will be easier to clean than ever with just one application of our surface paint. Our matte paint for wood is easy to use because it is an acrylic top coat that is water based.
This matte furniture paint adds a silky, understated feel to your possessions that is sure to catch the attention of your visitors. It is discrete yet intriguing.
Pros:
- Water-based and eco-friendly.
- Easy to use.
- Adds a silky feel and look.
- Enhances both old and new furniture surfaces.
Cons:
- Requires multiple layers for a consistent matte finish.
Budget-Friendly Option: Epifanes Wood Finish Matte
If size and cost are significant for you, the Epifanes Wood Finish Matte is a great option. Its small container can be stored for future use, and it's an affordable product, too.
Because of the microscopic porosity, coats can be applied without sanding for up to 72 hours. Teak and other high-quality hardwoods benefit from the soft matte beauty and excellent UV protection. Without sanding between coats, high build matte finish. (If recoated in the following 72 hours).
Pros:
- Affordable.
- Easy to apply without sanding.
- UV protection.
- Soft matte finish.
Cons:
- Requires frequent recoating for durability.
High-End Pick: Jolie Paint Matte Finish Paint for Furniture
For a truly luxurious and classic look, nothing beats the quality of Jolie Paint Matte Finish Paint for Furniture. This premium-grade, water-based paint is formulated with the highest quality natural ingredients and contains no VOCs or solvents.
This furnitur wax has tremendous adhesion characteristics that allow it to bond securely to any surface and provide superior protection from UV light, weathering, and wear. Plus, the matte finish is smooth to the touch and resists chipping and flaking.
The variety of colors available ensures that you can choose the perfect color for any furniture piece. And, when applied correctly, this paint promises to look great and last for many years to come. One 32oz quart covers roughly 150 square feet, while a 4oz sample only requires one or two coats for most colors.
Pros:
- High-quality natural ingredients.
- Superior adhesion characteristics.
- Resists UV light, weathering and wear.
- Smooth matte finish.
Cons:
- Costlier than some other options on the list.
Matte vs Satin Polyurethane Table Finishes: Our Conclusions
No matter what kind of polyurethane table wood finish you choose, you can ensure your furniture looks beautiful for years to come. Whether you're looking for a matte finish or a satin sheen, there's an option that meets your needs and budget. With the right product and proper application, you can transform your tables into a work of art.
Matte finishes provide an understated look and feel that is great for antique furniture and other pieces with a rustic appearance. Satin polyurethane table finishes offer a classic sheen that adds a touch of sophistication to any piece. Whichever finish you choose, your furniture is sure to look stunning for many years to come.
We hope this article has been helpful in helping you decide which polyurethane table finish is best for your needs and budget. Don't forget to read the product labels carefully before making a purchase, and always make sure to follow the directions on how to apply the finish. Good luck!
