Water-Based Finishing: It's Easier Than You Think!

Are you considering the jump from solvent-based wood finishes to a water-based system? Are you inundated with comments from your peers about the good, bad, and ugly aspects of your decision to switch? Do you think to yourself, “Now is the time to change to water, but how?” Making the switch from old world solvent-based wood finishes to modern, well engineered waterborne systems still has its challenges, but these challenges are not nearly as harrowing as it was 8 to 10 years ago. With the right line of products and with a few minor tweaks in your finishing process you can make the switch to a water-based system sooner then you think.

So, what stumbling blocks lay ahead in making the switch? First, you need to find a supplier with a solid track record in waterborne technology. There are several to choose from and due diligence on your part is the key to success or total frustration. Many of the old school solvent houses are still figuring out how to remove the lids off their water based resin samples without wearing flame retardant clothing. In addition, there are companies who have jumped onto the bandwagon with less then modern formulas purchased through acquisition, which skips the tried and true R&D process that ensures top shelf performance. Also, and most importantly, several coating manufacturers have their products tweaked, dialed, and set to make the process less painful then it may actually seem as a concerned finisher. Finding these companies and their products requires up-front time and effort, which naturally costs you money. Next, you will have to determine whether your spray equipment is up to making the changeover along with you.

During the next set of blog installments I will guide you through the process that will make the switch from solvent to water in as few steps as possible. Now, not all applications are the same. Door and window manufacturers require a different set of standards then does the cabinet or furniture maker or even the boat builder. Will you be finishing one-off custom pieces or are you finishing dozens or hundreds of the same parts and dimensions day after day? These are the reality checks of our industry, and these are the fine points that I hope to guide you in as you make your switch to a low VOC waterborne system that will satisfy your customers' standards. So tag along and have some fun while we help you make the changeover to a friendly waterborne technology- you'll be glad you did!