Melamine polish: A detailed guide

Wooden furniture looks beautiful and adds an elegant touch to any room. However, over time, it can lose its shine and lustre. This is where melamine polish comes into play. Melamine polish is a type of finish that can restore the natural beauty of wood and protect it from damage. In this article, we will explore the meaning of melamine polish, how to apply it, and the advantages and disadvantages of using it. 

See also: How to apply polyurethane wood finish to your furniture?

 

What is melamine polish? 

Melamine polish is a type of finish applied to wooden surfaces. It consists of melamine resin, a combination of melamine and formaldehyde, resulting in a flame-resistant and heat-tolerant synthetic polymer. When applied, it forms a thin, film-like layer that seals the wood’s pores, making it non-breathable. This characteristic protects the wood from temperature fluctuations and minor physical damages, providing a long-lasting gloss and resistance to dents, stains, and scratches.

 

How to apply melamine polish?

1. Sanding: The first step is to sand the wooden surface thoroughly to smooth out rough edges and fibrous areas.
2. Stuffing: This involves filling in the small pores, cuts, and gaps in the wood. Special fillers are used for this purpose.
3. Sanding sealer: After the filler dries, the surface is sanded again, and a sanding sealer is applied, usually with a spray gun, to enhance the final polish’s appearance.
4. Adding colour (Optional): For furniture made from materials like Medium-Density Fiberboard (MDF), a faux wood-like texture can be created using a chemical compound. This is optional and depends on the desired aesthetic.
5. Coating with melamine: Mix the resin and catalyst (hardener) and apply it using a spray gun. This step should be handled professionally.
6. Final finish: After the initial coating dries, sand the surface with fine-grained waterproof sandpaper and apply the final coat.

 

What are the advantages of melamine polish? 

1. Durability: It tends to last longer than traditional polishes like French polish.
2. Aesthetic quality: Offers excellent gloss retention, keeping furniture gleaming for years.
3. Resistance: Provides resistance to scratches, stains, and heat.
4. Protection: Preserves the furniture from regular wear and tear.

 

What are the disadvantages of melamine polish?

1. Non-breathability: As a sealed pore polish, it makes the wood non-breathable, which can be a concern in certain applications.
2. Difficulty in repainting: Melamine surfaces are designed to repel substances, making repainting challenging. The surface needs to be de-glossed and roughened for the paint to adhere properly.
3. Health concerns: The high amount of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) in some melamine polishes has raised health concerns and led to restrictions in certain areas.

 

What are the environmental and health considerations?

Melamine polish contains formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, which can off-gas from finished products. This raises concerns, especially in poorly ventilated spaces. It’s crucial to use melamine polish in well-ventilated areas and to follow safety guidelines, such as wearing masks and gloves during application.

 

What are the alternatives to melamine polish?

1. Water-based polishes: These are less toxic and more environmentally friendly.
2. Oil-based finishes: These offer a natural look but require more maintenance.
3. Lacquer or varnish: These provide durability and are available in various sheens.

 

FAQs 

What is melamine polish?

Melamine polish is a finish applied to wood, consisting of melamine resin. It forms a durable, film-like layer that seals the wood's pores, making it resistant to temperature fluctuations and physical damage, and providing a glossy appearance.

How is melamine polish applied to wood?

The application involves several steps: cleaning and preparing the wood, sanding, filling imperfections, sealing, optional colouring, applying melamine polish with a brush or spray, and final sanding and buffing. Professional application is recommended for the best results.

What are the advantages of using melamine polish on wood?

Melamine polish offers durability, resistance to scratches, stains, and heat, easy maintenance, a variety of colours and textures, and an affordable price compared to other high-end finishes.

Is melamine polish harmful to health?

Melamine polish contains formaldehyde, which can off-gas and pose health risks, especially in poorly ventilated areas. Using safety gear and ensuring good ventilation during application is important.

Can melamine polish be used on all types of wood?

Yes, melamine polish can be applied to most types of wood, but it's essential to prepare the surface properly for optimal adhesion and finish.

How does the cost of melamine polish compare to other finishes?

Melamine polish is more cost-effective than high-end finishes but may be more expensive than basic paints or stains. The cost also depends on factors like brand, quality, and professional application fees.

Are there eco-friendly alternatives to melamine polish?

Yes, alternatives include water-based polishes, which are less toxic and more environmentally friendly, oil-based finishes for a natural look, and lacquers or varnishes for durability with various sheen options.

How long does melamine polish last on wood?

Melamine polish is known for its longevity, often lasting longer than traditional wood polishes. Its lifespan can vary depending on usage and maintenance.

Can melamine polish be applied over a previously painted or polished surface?

Melamine polish generally requires a clean, raw wood surface for application. If applied over a previously painted or polished surface, it may not adhere properly and could lead to peeling or flaking. The existing finish should be completely removed before applying melamine polish.

Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com