How to Seal Chalkpaint: Wax vs Sealers
Chalkpaint is a popular choice for DIY enthusiasts who want to transform their furniture with a vintage and distressed look. However, chalk paint is not very durable on its own, and it needs a protective coating to prevent it from chipping, scratching, or fading. In this blog post, we will compare two of the most common options for sealing chalkpaint: wax and sealers. We will also share some tips and tricks from Granny B's, the leading supplier of old-fashioned paint products in South Africa.
What is Wax?
Wax is a natural product that is made from beeswax, carnauba wax, or other plant-based waxes. It is applied over chalkpaint with a brush or a cloth, and it creates a soft and smooth finish. Wax can also enhance the color and texture of the chalkpaint, and it can be used to create different effects, such as antique, rustic, or shabby chic.
Some of the advantages of using wax are:
- It is easy to apply and buff
- It gives a warm and rich look to the furniture
- It allows the chalkpaint to breathe and age naturally
- It can be reapplied or removed easily
Some of the disadvantages of using wax are:
- It is not very resistant to water, heat, or stains
- It requires regular maintenance and reapplication
- It can yellow over time, especially on light colors
- It can be difficult to paint over waxed surfaces
Learn more about our range of Pappa G’s #ChalkpaintWax
https://www.grannyb.co.za/collections/chalkpaint-wax-by-pappa-gs
What are Sealers?
Sealers are synthetic products that are made from acrylic, polyurethane, or other polymers. They are applied over chalkpaint with a brush, a roller, or a spray, and they create a hard and durable finish. Sealers can also protect the chalkpaint from UV rays, moisture, and abrasion, and they can have different sheens, such as matte, satin, or glossy.
Some of the advantages of using sealers are:
- They are more resistant to water, heat, stains, and scratches
- They do not require frequent maintenance or reapplication
- They do not yellow over time, and they preserve the original color of the chalkpaint
- They are easier to paint over if needed
Some of the disadvantages of using sealers are:
- They can give a plastic or artificial look to the furniture
- They can crack or peel over time, especially on flexible surfaces
- They can trap moisture and cause the chalkpaint to blister or flake if the paint is not allowed to dry prior to sealing
learn more about our range of durable and eco-friendly sealers
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How to Choose Between Wax and Sealers?
The choice between wax and sealers depends on several factors, such as:
- The type and condition of the furniture
- The desired look and feel of the finish
- The expected use and wear of the furniture
- The personal preference and budget of the user
As a general rule, wax is more suitable for furniture that is not exposed to high traffic, moisture, or heat, and that has a lot of details and textures that can be enhanced by wax. Wax is also more affordable and eco-friendly than sealers.
Sealers are more suitable for furniture that is used frequently, or that is placed in areas with high humidity, temperature, or sunlight, and that has a smooth and even surface that can be protected by sealers. Sealers are also more durable and long-lasting than wax.
Tips and Tricks from Granny B's
Granny B's is a trusted brand that offers a wide range of high-quality products for sealing chalkpaint, such as:
- Papa G's Clear Wax, a natural and easy-to-use wax that gives a soft and velvety finish
- Granny B's Armour, a water-based and non-yellowing sealer that gives a matte and resilient finish
- Granny B's Classic Seal, an oil-based and UV-resistant sealer that gives a satin and glossy finish
Here are some tips and tricks from Granny B's to help you achieve the best results with their products:
- Always clean the furniture with sugar soap or lacquer thinners before applying chalkpaint and sealers
- Apply thin and even coats of chalkpaint and sealers, and let them dry completely between coats
- Use a good quality brush or roller for applying sealers, and a soft cloth or a wax brush for applying wax
- Buff the wax with a clean cloth to remove any excess and to create a smooth and shiny finish
- Use a lint-free cloth to wipe off any dust or dirt from the sealed furniture
- Store the wax and sealers in a cool and dry place, and keep them away from children and pets
Conclusion
Sealing chalkpaint is an important step to ensure the durability and beauty of your furniture. Whether you choose wax or sealers, you can find the best products and advice from Granny B's, the leading supplier of old-fashioned paint products in South Africa. Visit their website or contact them today to learn more about their products and services. www.granny.co.za