Can I varnish veneer or melamine boards?

Yes, you can varnish veneer boards, but you cannot varnish melamine boards. 

Veneer is a thin layer of real wood, so it can be varnished or lacquered just like solid wood. This allows you to achieve the desired finish, enhancing the natural beauty of the wood grain. When varnishing veneer, it is important to choose a high-quality varnish and follow proper techniques to ensure an even and attractive finish.

To varnish veneer, start by lightly sanding the surface to remove any existing finish and to create a smooth, even surface. Use fine-grit sandpaper and be careful not to sand through the thin veneer layer. After sanding, clean the surface with a tack cloth to remove any dust. Apply the varnish using a clean brush or roller, working with the grain of the wood. Apply thin, even coats and allow each coat to dry thoroughly before applying the next. Lightly sand between coats with fine-grit sandpaper for a smooth, professional finish.

We recommend using a high-quality varnish such as Ronseal Interior Varnish or Sadolin Extra Durable Clearcoat. These varnishes not only protect the wood but also enhance its appearance. Ronseal Interior Varnish is known for its durability and ease of application, providing a tough and long-lasting finish. Sadolin Extra Durable Clearcoat offers excellent protection against knocks, scuffs, and spills, making it ideal for high-traffic areas.

On the other hand, melamine boards cannot be varnished because they are made from a paper or fabric layer soaked in melamine resin, which is then thermally fused to a particleboard or MDF core. The melamine surface is essentially plastic, which does not absorb varnish. If you want to change the colour of melamine, painting is your best option. Use a primer designed for glossy or non-porous surfaces to ensure good adhesion, and then apply a high-quality paint suitable for melamine or laminate surfaces. This process will allow you to refresh the look of your melamine boards without the need for varnishing.

In summary, while veneer boards can be varnished to enhance their natural beauty, melamine boards require painting if you wish to alter their appearance. For best results with veneer, choose a high-quality varnish like Ronseal Interior Varnish or Sadolin Extra Durable Clearcoat and follow proper varnishing techniques. For melamine, use the appropriate primer and paint to achieve a new look.

We can save you the effort of varnishing by lacquering our veneer for you. Our spray-coated lacquer provides the same protective finish as varnishing but with a more professional look.