Frequently asked questions about the Varnishes, oils, maintenance products category
What are Varnishes, oils, maintenance products and what are they used for?
Varnishes, oils, maintenance products are professional and consumer formulations for protecting, restoring and maintaining wood, stone and painted surfaces. The category includes water- and solvent-based varnishes, wood oils, oil-waxes and sauna care (e.g. SUPI), offering moisture protection, wear resistance and decorative finishes.
What is the difference between water-based and solvent/alkyd varnishes?
Water-based varnishes dry faster, have lower odour and good clarity, suitable for interior work and furniture (e.g. KIVA furniture varnish). Solvent/alkyd varnishes create a harder, more chemical-resistant film better for floors and exterior use but take longer to dry.
Which product should I choose for parquet flooring?
For parquet choose a wear-resistant polyurethane or parquet varnish (e.g. ESKARO SE60) or an Osmo oil-wax for a more natural matt finish; consider drying time, recommended coats and desired sheen.
Which oils and waxes are suitable for furniture and how do they differ?
Use penetrating oils (Osmo, oil-waxes) and oil-waxes for furniture: oils nourish and tone wood giving a matt finish, while oil-waxes combine protection with slight sheen and improved water/stain resistance. Choose by volume (0.125–0.75 L) and shade (e.g. 3061 Acacia, 3138 Mahogany).
Which product to choose for treating an outdoor terrace?
For terraces choose outdoor-grade oils or impregnations with UV and moisture resistance (e.g. Holz Oil 3L). These penetrate deeply, protect against cracking and won’t wash off if applied per instructions.
How to restore a worn parquet or furniture surface?
Use repair kits and restorative products: clean, sand worn areas, apply a matching stain or oil (e.g. Osmo testers 5 ml), then finish with a protective varnish or oil-wax.
Which products are suitable for wet rooms and saunas?
Choose specialised sauna/wet-room products such as SUPI SAUNASUOJA EP or sauna waxes designed to withstand steam and temperature loads; apply thin coats and follow drying/ventilation guidance.
How to choose a stain or oil shade for wood?
Use sample testers (Osmo 5 ml or oil-wax testers) on a spare piece or inconspicuous area. Note stains darken the grain and final colour varies by wood species and application method.
What accessories or additional materials are needed when applying varnish or oil?
You need brushes/rollers, sandpaper of various grits, lint-free cloths, primers for porous woods and colour testers. Use manufacturer-recommended tools and respect drying times between coats for a professional finish.