Originally Posted by
jTr
Andrew,
I've tried conversion varnish produced by Sherwin-Williams on some commercial dining tables. Unfortunately, no experience / feedback from service is possible, as the business closed after first year. What I can say is that it looked terribly lumpy at the outset, but after a few days, settled in fairly well. Always concerned about repairs down the road, as almost nothing adheres after curing.
My current favorite is an "Acrylic Conversion Coating" from Sherwin-williams, (T77-F-6X). It is a C.A.B. acrylic. Five gallon buckets are catalyzed at the store upon ordering (or by end user if you don't mind stocking a quart of catalyst), and good for 5-6 months shelf life.
Pluses to note:
- Optimal build and leveling with no reduction needed.
- Cured and ready for packaging within 4 hours(!)
- Non-yellowing, as it is an acrylic, making it "optimal for pickling and light pastels" I've had no issues laying over flat latex base coats that have been glazed and need a clear, non-yellowing top coat to seal it all in.
- Optimal heat and water resistance
- Self-sealing with one to two subsequent coats maximum.
- On Walnut- greatly reduces it's tendency to amber up over the years, particularly when compared to pre-cats and nitrocellulose based products.
- Recently found Mohawk offers a CAB Acrylic touch-up aerosol. It does burn into this product, as opposed to standard lacquer aerosol touch-ups, which do not adhere and can be easily peeled off.
I imagine the post varnishes may be measurably more durable, but always concerned about future maintenance, and find the trade off for a less fussy product is more advantageous, especially now that I can retouch.
Hearsay is irrelevant compared to your extensive personal experience with the product you currently use. I find most times a machine or product is scoffed at, the real issue is improper use or application.
Best of luck,
Jeff