Are non-toxic interior wood sealants durable?

Depending on the sealant you choose, there will be a range of durability. Polywhey lacquers provide a hard-finish and are becoming a popular choice of non-toxic wood sealant. Natural oils penetrate the wood and protect from moisture but do not offer much impact protection. Polyurethane sealers provide better resistance to your wooden surface at the expense of increased Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) within their solvents.

What are non-toxic interior wood sealants?

Companies like Vermont Natural Coatings have a new polymerized whey protein that delivers a durable and sustainable finish to your wood surfaces. While not as resistant as human-made solvents, natural oils can act as a water-resistant finish. These include tung oil and linseed oil.

How are non-toxic interior wood sealants different?

Sealants that are low- to no-Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are considered non-toxic. Often made with natural and sustainable sources, these sealants protect your surfaces with a reduced environmental impact. When off-gassing, ensuring adequate air circulation in your rooms helps quicken the drying and diffusion of VOCs.

How long do non-toxic interior wood sealants last?

The life-expectancy you can expect from your interior wood surfaces depends on the type of wood you are sealing and the selected sealant. Since most non-toxic wood sealers are not as protective as their solvent alternatives, you can expect to refinish your surfaces more often. Depending on foot traffic (for floors), sun exposure, or excessive use of the sealed-surface (i.e. countertops, furniture, toys), reapplication may be as often as every few months-to-a-year.

How much does non-toxic interior wood sealant cost?

The cost of interior wood sealant will depend on your area’s size and the sealant’s quality. High-quality, non-toxic products will have sizes ranging from a few ounces to one gallon. Each of these products’ price ranges varies, with the lowest volume of two-to-eight ounces being between $6 and $18. When examining the one-gallon sealant options, the price point ranges between $60 and $135.

When should I use an interior wood sealant?

It is best to regularly use interior wood sealant for your wooden surfaces to protect and prolong life. Unsealed wooden surfaces allow moisture to penetrate deep into the pores, creating rot that eventually destroys your product. Depending on the type of wood surface and location, reapplication can be as often as every few months-to-a-year. Common areas with heavy foot traffic or surfaces regularly used may need additional care.

Are interior wood sealants toxic?

Toxicity from wood sealants comes from the release of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) during the off-gassing stage. You will see increased VOCs in polyurethane finishes in comparison to low- and no-VOC wood sealants.

In-Depth Product Guide

Interior Wood Sealant

FAQs

·Related

Wood sealers protect wooden surfaces from moisture and other substances. They do this by penetrating deep into the wood’s pores with either transparent, translucent, or pigmented sealant. While both interior and exterior sealers protect the wood from water and chemicals, exterior wood sealants often provide an added UV protection layer to reduce the sun’s fading.

Look for an interior wood sealant that dries quickly and is easy to apply. Added benefits of wood sealants include non-flammable, neutral odor, and low-to-no Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) sealers.

This sealant extends your indoor wooden surfaces’ life, reducing waste and resources necessary to replace damaged pieces. Finding an interior wood sealant low in Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) reduces toxic carcinogens off-gassed during

Interior wood sealants protect the porous wood from becoming saturated and damaged by creating a protective layer within the pores.

Interior Wood Sealant

Frequently asked questions

Related Content

Interior Sealants: For Floors, Counters, and Grout

Biobased Epoxy Resins: A Shift in the Right Direction

Related Content

Interior Sealants: For Floors, Counters, and Grout

Biobased Epoxy Resins: A Shift in the Right Direction