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    The wood cycle · Stage 3 of 4

    Finish

    The layer you see and touch: colour, gloss, resistance.

    Effect and final result

    The finish is what you see and touch: it determines the look of the wood, matt, satin or gloss, and how well it stands up to everyday use, scratches, water and sun.

    On well-prepared and protected wood, the finish completes the cycle and makes it last. The choice depends on where the wood is and what effect you want to achieve.

    Products for this stage

    Base
    Where you use it

    Same job, two bases. For this stage you'll find water-based and solvent-based products: the formulation changes, not the job they do. Choose the base you're most comfortable with.

    At work

    How it's applied, in the hands of those who do it every day.

    • Paint roller with a blue handle resting on a dark wooden board with visible grain
    • Close-up of a wooden panel with vertical grain lit from the side by a blade of warm light
    • Close-up of a wooden panel varnished in amber and walnut tones, with natural visible grain
    • Deck and helm station of a vintage boat in varnished wood, with wheel, swivel seat and light blue mainsail cover

    Mistakes to avoid

    • Varnishing before the stain is dry

      Moisture trapped under the finish causes blistering and peeling.

    • Using an interior finish outdoors

      Each product has its own area of use: it is stated on the data sheet.

    • Coats that are too thick

      They run, dry poorly and stay soft for longer.

    Learn more from the Workshop

    Have a question?

    Write to our technicians: we'll help you choose the right product and cycle for your wood.