The final stage in wood processing is almost always parquet varnish. They choose him for a reason. The technical characteristics of the coating give any surface enhanced properties of resistance to wear and damage. Various operating conditions dictate the compositional features of paints and varnishes. If you are faced with a choice and don’t know what is best to choose, below is a rating that will help you figure it out.
Category | Name | Price, l/rub. | brief information |
The best water-based parquet varnish | Tex Pro Aqua | 0,9/229 | Colorless antiseptic varnish. Can be used indoors and outdoors. Dries in 12 hours. Consumption 5-18 m/l. |
Luxens | 5/1997 | Glossy - used for finishing floors and wooden structures indoors. Dries quickly - only 2 hours between coats. You need at least 3 layers. | |
Tex Profi Waterborne | 5/1718 | Wear-resistant acrylic based for dry rooms. After drying, it forms a transparent, uniform, abrasion-resistant film. | |
The best polyurethane parquet varnish | LobaDur WS 2K DUO | 5/2000 | Two-component water-based. Mix with hardener before application. After drying, it can withstand any load. |
Dufa Expert D333 | 2,5/2850 | For covering parquet and plank floors with normal operating load. Silky gloss finish. | |
Luxens Heavy Duty | 2/758 | Inexpensive, but very high quality. Designed for intense loads. Can be washed with special compounds and abrasives. Does not get scratched by furniture. | |
Marshall Protex Parke Cila 90 | 2,5/930 | It applies well, does not flake or peel off at the edges. | |
Eurotex Yacht | 2/790 | For the protection of all types of parquet, including mosaic. Wear-resistant, one-component, glossy, semi-matte. | |
Lakra PF 231 | 0,8/140 | Forms a glossy transparent coating that is resistant to abrasion. Can be applied to both wood and metal. | |
The best parquet varnish for wooden floors and stairs | 3V3 Vitrificateur Protection | 5/3400 | Without smell. Indicated for bedrooms and children's rooms. |
Tex parquet PF-231 | 2/337 | After drying, it forms a hard film that is resistant to water. After drying, the color may change. | |
Eco Protect | 0,75/829 | Low concentration of volatile organic compounds. | |
Varnish EP-2146 | 1,7/633 | Semi-gloss one-component epoxy. Fast drying natural drying. | |
Euro Kiri | 2,3/1903 | Gloss alkyd urethane. Beautiful coating that is resistant to abrasion and stress. | |
The best parquet varnish for furniture | Eurotex Premium Rogneda | 0,8/325 | The composition forms a quick-drying, super-durable coating. For interior work only. |
Tex Universal PF 231 | 0,8/390 | Shiny glossy. Resistant to water. Forms a hard transparent film. For interior work only. | |
Dufa Retail Parkett | 2,5/1086 | Glossy. Can be used for varnishing window frames, doors, wood-panelled walls and ceilings. | |
Kiva 30 | 0,9/840 | Dries quickly, drying time is 30 minutes-1 hour. There is no smell, it is relatively environmentally friendly, they even paint children's furniture. | |
Dulux Woodsheen | 0,75/820 | Ultraviolet filter included and resistance to temperature changes. 1 layer is enough. | |
Düfa PREMIUM PU PARQUET LAQUER D333 | 2,5/2530 | Glossy polyurethane. Wear-resistant. Lightfast. 1 primer, 2 final. | |
The best parquet varnish for decoupage | Taika Glow Tikkurila | 1/2900 | Special glow in the dark waterborne. |
Biofa 2050 Universal | 1/2400 | Gives a glossy, almost mirror-like reflection. | |
Pinotex Lacker Aqua 70 | 2,7/1390 | Without smell. Gives a glossing effect, ideal for decoupage. | |
The best parquet varnish for outdoor use | Tikkurila Unica Super | 9/7500 | Elastic film, does not crack or burst in cold or heat. |
Dulux Celco Yacht 90 | 1/1950 | Forms an elastic, weather-resistant film that is resistant to changes in humidity and temperature. | |
Temadur Clear | 4,2/3250 | Two-component. Super glossy finish. Frost-resistant. | |
Dufa AQUA-PARKETTLACK | 0,75/1039 | Frost-resistant, UV protection. 4 hours to dry. | |
LOBADUR WS 2K Duo | 5/8900 | For high traffic areas. Dries quickly. You can only work with a roller. |
Features of parquet varnish and its types
Thanks to its unique technical characteristics, parquet paints and varnishes are able to protect wood materials that are vulnerable to moisture. By creating a protective and at the same time decorative layer, the parquet will not only look attractive, but will also not deform due to water absorption. All products on the market are divided into several groups according to their chemical composition, operational parameters, purpose, production technology and environmental friendliness. Based on these parameters, 4 classes were identified:
Acid-curing
This is a two-component and one-component type of parquet varnish, which is considered the most durable after hardening. This is due to the presence of formaldehyde resins. It is characterized by a high level of adhesion, low sensitivity to changes in temperature and humidity, and the possibility of application with brushes and rollers, spray guns, and spatulas. This material does not require preliminary priming, but when working with it it is necessary to reliably protect the eyes, nose and mouth from fumes.
Water based
The material is based on acrylic binders and other components. Acrylic parquet varnish is often used in educational institutions, children's institutions and residential buildings. Unlike other analogues, the material is considered environmentally friendly. Odorless parquet varnish also has disadvantages, the main one on the list is a low level of wear resistance, but this issue can be solved by adding solvents, for example, polyurethane type dispersion. The product is applied exclusively with high-quality rollers that are not capable of lifting the pile.
Polyurethane
Manufacturers of polyurethane paints and varnishes recommend using the products in rooms where the surface being treated will regularly be subject to abrasion. The composition is based on acrylic dispersion, as well as urethane resin and various solvents. The material is excellent for public institutions, sports sections, cafes, kitchens.
Alkyd compositions
Produced on the basis of alkyd oils and solvents. Such cladding can change the color of the wood structure, making it brighter and more contrasting. To work with this material, it is necessary to create individual conditions. During the drying period, the surface should not be exposed to direct sunlight; the coating should also be protected from intense heat (heating radiators) and provided with fresh air circulation.
Two-component alkyd compositions
The alkyd product is sold together with a hardener (drier).
Before applying to the surface, the varnish and hardener must be mixed according to the proportions indicated on the container.
Staining is carried out in two to three approaches.
It should be remembered that after the mixture is ready it must be used within 8 hours. Afterwards it loses its qualities.
Two-component alkyd compositions, as a rule, have a higher level of performance than their analogues.
But, at the same time, there are some disadvantages of alkyd varnishes:
- They have an unpleasant, pungent and persistent odor.
- They may bubble during operation (which is undesirable).
- Not resistant to UV radiation (surfaces fade quickly enough).
- Toxic (may harm human health).
The best water-based parquet varnish
Modern water-soluble varnish is obtained by mixing water with the other components of the composition. After this, the resulting mixture is diluted with a small amount of solvent so that its share does not exceed 15%. The finished surface is not designed to withstand excessive mechanical loads.
Tex Pro Aqua
Antiseptic colorless product for treating sawed, planed and other wooden surfaces. Disinfects the surface of furniture and doors for subsequent coating. Can also be used as an independent element. Used for work indoors with normal conditions, but with increased mechanical load. Consumption per time varies between 14-18 sq. m/l, provided that it is applied to an already treated surface.
Tex Pro Aqua
Water is used as a diluent. Apply using a brush or applicator. The product needs up to 12 hours to dry completely. The result is a protective and decorative coating with a glossy or semi-matte sheen. Packaged in containers of 2 l, 5 l and 10 l. Price for 5 liters – 1950 rubles.
Specifications:
Consumption, sq.m/l | 5-15 (depending on surface) |
Time for complete drying, h | 12 |
Diluent | water |
Price 0.9 l – 229 rub.
Pros:
- suitable for window frames, railings;
- inexpressive smell.
Minuses:
- takes a long time to dry;
- not designed for high traffic areas.
Luxens
Gives a semi-matte effect, water-based. This is a brand name of the Leroy Merlin chain of hardware stores, so don't try to find it in other stores. The manufacturer claims that it does not turn yellow, and can be applied as a second layer after 2 hours.
Luxens
Specifications:
Consumption, sq.m/l | 10 |
Time for complete drying, h | 12 |
Diluent | water |
Price 5 liters 1997 rub. This is enough for 50 sq.m. in one layer.
Pros:
- for all types of wood;
- odorless parquet varnish.
Minuses:
- does not protect against scratches
- Doesn't protect against all stains.
Tex Profi Waterborne
Water-based parquet varnish, suitable for any wood elements. Can also be applied to natural stone and brick surfaces. You can put up furniture and walk around after 12 hours. If you are covering from scratch, half a two liter jar will be enough for 8-12 m².
Tex Profi Waterborne
Specifications:
Consumption, sq.m/l | 14-18 |
Time for complete drying, h | 12 |
Time between layers | 30 minutes, layer after 2-3 hours |
Cost 1718 rub.
Pros:
- glossy and semi-matte modification;
- durability;
- Resistant to pinpoint impacts and scratches.
Minus:
- only for interior work.
How to dilute it?
White spirit is used as a solvent for alkyd compositions, which begins to evaporate as soon as the composition is applied to the surface.
Then polymerization of the composition occurs. It is caused by chemical reactions between the molecules of resins and other components. To remove the varnish coating from the surface, a remover is used. It is a special chemical that destroys the varnish and lifts the film from the material. The varnish can be washed off with powder products, pastes of different consistencies, as well as by scraping or heat treatment.
The best polyurethane parquet varnish
It is characterized by such properties as heat and light resistance, elasticity, adhesion. The top layer is abrasion resistant and can withstand significant loads.
LobaDur WS 2K DUO
Loba parquet varnish is a two-component coating, the main component of which is polyurethane. It is considered the most popular in the manufacturer’s series due to the possibility of use in industrial and residential buildings with high mechanical load on the base.
LobaDur WS 2K DUO
Product consumption does not exceed 130 g/m2 provided that it is applied in one layer. The composition is packaged in containers of 5 and 1 liters. Costs 2000 rubles. and a 5 liter canister. It comes in matte, semi-matte, glossy and extra-matte.
Pros:
- suitable for public buildings;
- Resistant to scratches, impacts, heavy furniture.
Minuses:
- after wet cleaning the surface is very slippery.
Dufa Expert D333
Polyurethane material is consumed quite economically - 1 liter per 8 m2. For interior work only. The acrylic composition forms a wear-resistant and durable coating with a silky shine.
Dufa Expert D333
The consistency is applied to a previously prepared surface. Easy to clean, even with detergents. Waterproof, colorless material is diluted with water. One coat requires 24 hours to dry completely. Price for 2.5 liters – 2850 rubles.
Pros:
- can even be washed with abrasives;
- silky finish;
- wear resistance
Minus:
- It takes a very long time to dry - 1 coat takes 24 hours, and you need at least 3 of them.
Luxens Heavy Duty
This parquet varnish is two-component, so it needs to be diluted with a solvent, but oddly enough, reviews say that it has absolutely no smell. The company produces it in a wide palette, everyone will find something in the line.
Luxens Heavy Duty
Specifications:
Consumption, sq.m/l | 22 |
Time for complete drying, h | 12 |
Time between layers, h | 2-3 |
2 liters will cost 758 rubles.
Plus:
- a budget option;
- designed for intensive operating loads;
- for finishing plank floors, parquet, lining, wooden walls.
Minus:
- takes a long time to dry, sticky.
Marshall Protex Parke Cila 90
Marshall is an alkyd urethane parquet varnish that gives a glossy finish. Complete drying takes as much as 96 hours, but in the end you will get a wear-resistant coating. Application is easy and leaves no streaks from the brush. It must be diluted according to the instructions with white spirit.
Marshall Protex Parke Cila 90
Specifications:
Consumption, sq.m/l | 8 |
Time for complete drying, h | 12 |
Time between layers, h | 2-3 |
Temperature during application, °C | 5-30 |
Price 932 rub.
Plus:
- There are options with different finishes;
Minuses:
- there will be an odor due to the thinner;
- not suitable for kitchens and balconies, laminated surfaces;
- manual application only.
Eurotex Yacht
Eurotex is created on the basis of alkyd-urethane oils. Can be diluted with solvent. Application is carried out both mechanically and manually. A perfectly glossy sheen is guaranteed. Since this parquet varnish is also for yachts, it is suitable for wet operating conditions. There is a semi-matte option.
Eurotex Yacht
Specifications:
Consumption, sq.m/l | 8-17 |
Time for complete drying, h | 12 |
Time between layers, h | 2 |
A 2-liter container costs 790 rubles.
Pros:
- indoors and outdoors;
- does not burn out.
Minus:
- The smell is from the solvent, but it dissipates quickly.
Lakra PF 231
Alkyd-urethane parquet varnish, which can be applied to metal and wood in rooms with moderate and high humidity. Complete hardening takes two days. Bring in furniture only after 5 days.
Lakra PF 231
Specifications:
Consumption, sq.m/l | 13,5-16,5 |
Time for complete drying, h | 48 |
Time between layers, h | 4 |
Price 0.8 l 140 rub.
Pros:
- apply with a roller, spray, brush;
- waterproof;
- Can be applied to oil based bases
Minuses:
- there is an odor;
- Internal use only.
How long does it take to dry?
Immediately after application, alkyd varnish looks like glue. After about 10 hours, some varnishes that have special hardeners in their composition will already harden. Typically it takes 24 hours for one coat to dry.
It is worth noting that the thickness of the varnish film after drying may become smaller, in this case it all depends on how much of the solvent has evaporated. Its content in alkyd mixtures may vary, and based on this indicator, the toxicity level of the composition increases or decreases.
The best parquet varnish for wooden floors and stairs
Initially, all varnishes are colorless, but they can be tinted as desired. Usually the composition is tinted if you need to combine the floor and stairs with other interior details. When choosing, pay attention to the level of gloss of the product. Glossy will make the room visually more spacious. But matte will emphasize the natural structure of wood.
3V3 Vitrificateur Protection
Parquet varnish 3v3 is produced in three variations and comes in matte, semi-matte and glossy. Provides intense protection to the base thanks to its acrylic filler. This product fully complies with all medical and sanitary requirements, therefore it is completely harmless to humans and the environment.
3V3 Vitrificateur Protection
It is applied to various types of wood, planks, stairs, parquets. A brush or roller is used for work. Drying time to touch-free condition is half an hour; to apply the second layer you need to wait 2 hours, and it takes a day for it to dry completely. Consumption is 12 m2/l. The price of French paint and varnish coating with a volume of 5 liters is 3,400 rubles.
Pros:
- applied in any convenient way;
- dries quickly to touch.
Tex parquet PF-231
Gives high gloss to your surfaces, colorless. They can work on wood, fiberboard and chipboard. Apply only after 24 hours.
Tex parquet PF-231
Specifications:
Consumption, sq.m/l | 14-22 |
Time for complete drying, h | 5-7 |
Time between layers, h | 1 |
2 liters cost 337 rubles.
Eco Protect
The 3v3 formula allows you not to be “fidgety” with the selection of solvent. Economical water-based parquet varnish is odorless, which allows you to work indoors. As a result, you get a wear- and scratch-resistant coating. Thanks to its repellent properties, water and dirt will not be absorbed. Can be applied in several layers, allowing each layer to dry for 24 hours. Apply in a warm place - not lower than 12°C and dry.
Eco Protect
Specifications:
Consumption, sq.m/ml | 83-100 |
Time for complete drying, h | 48 |
Time between layers, h | 24 |
The smallest capacity of 0.75 liters will cost 829 rubles.
Pros:
- matte, semi-gloss;
- won't strip
Minus:
- not suitable for attic or terrace floors.
Varnish EP-2146
The Yaroslavl paints company presents an economical option for covering wooden floors. Can only be used indoors over veneer, plywood, chipboard or fiberboard. Used as a finishing layer. Application should be made along the structural pattern of the tree.
Varnish EP-2146
Specifications:
Consumption, sq.m/l | 10-14 |
Time for complete drying, h | 48 |
Time between layers, h | 2 |
Price 633 rub. for 1.7 kg.
Pros:
- washing with aggressive soap solutions;
- resistant to temperature changes.
Euro Kiri
Alkyd-urethane mixture, for protecting floors, stairs or furniture in the room. Abrasion resistant and water-repellent. A wide palette of 30 shades will allow you to choose a tone to match your decor.
Euro Kiri
Specifications:
Consumption, sq.m/l | 12-14 |
Time for complete drying, h | 12 |
Time between layers, h | 2-4 |
A 2.7 liter capacity costs RUB 1,903.
Plus:
- There is a semi-gloss variety.
Minus:
- do not apply with a roller.
Manufacturers
Several brands are in wide demand among buyers:
- White house
- Parade
- Tikkurila
Alkyd-urethane mixtures from Parade were able to win a large audience, since this manufacturer sells varnishes with increased elasticity. Buyers leave reviews in which they report that the film that forms after applying the product does not crack or deteriorate for a long time. Alkyd products can emphasize the naturalness of wood material and make the floor more impressive. Parade offers its customers mixtures for exterior and interior use.
White house has won over customers with its affordable prices and low scent. The manufacturer produces high-quality varnishes that are characterized by high wear protection, rapid polymerization and a decorative component. Varnish is able to preserve the natural shade of wood. Just like Parade, the manufacturer produces products for working with outdoor and home surfaces.
Tikkurila is considered a trusted manufacturer of many materials for construction work. The brand has won the respect of customers and is known as a manufacturer of reliable and high-quality products. Tikkurila yacht varnish, which is characterized by fast polymerization and excellent spreadability, receives good reviews. The low price helps this brand become a leader among alkyd varnish manufacturers.
The best parquet varnish for furniture
When starting the varnishing process, be sure to pay attention to the composition. Given the minor loads, both water-based and alkyd are suitable.
Eurotex Premium Rogneda
Used to create a protective layer on the wood elements of a furniture set. They are also often used for cladding railings, stairs, and wall panels.
Eurotex Premium Rogneda
With preliminary priming, consumption varies within 1 liter per 9-13 m2, provided that it is applied in one layer. The material must be stored at temperatures ranging from -40°C to +40°C. The product is packaged in containers with a volume of 0.8-10 liters. The price for a small jar is 325 rubles.
Tex Universal PF 231
A universal paint and varnish mixture for use inside residential buildings creates an absolutely transparent layer, which, after complete drying, forms a protective barrier to abrasion and against a humid environment.
Tex Universal PF 231
Can be used for parquet, furniture and other wooden structures. Material consumption 7-13 m2/kg, packaging PF 231 – 0.8 and 1.8 l. The price for the minimum volume is 390 rubles.
Dufa Retail Parkett
Diluted with solvent. Gives a glossy shine to decorative items and furniture. 10 square meters will require 1 liter of paint if applied in one layer. Dries completely within a day.
Dufa Retail Parkett
Price 2.5 l 1086 rub.
Kiva 30
Tikkurila Kiva 30 is an environmentally friendly, odorless varnish, made in Finland. Created on the basis of acrylates. Has a semi-matte finish. In addition to furniture, it can be used to process other wooden surfaces and even children’s wooden toys. Dilute with water.
Kiva 30
Specifications:
Consumption, sq.m/l | 8-14 |
Time for complete drying, h | 12 |
Time between layers, h | 1 |
Price 0.9 l - 840 rub.
Pros:
- does not turn yellow;
- does not crack at any temperature.
Minuses:
- only inside rooms;
- When applied, white streaks may form, which disappear when dry.
Dulux Woodsheen
The UV filter included and resistance to temperature changes will help keep the base smooth for as long as possible. Dries in 2-4 hours, no layering required.
Dulux Woodsheen
Specifications:
Consumption, sq.m/l | 15 |
Time for complete drying, h | 2-4 |
Time between layers, h | 0,5 |
Cost 750 ml - 820 rub.
Plus:
- applied outside in 3 layers.
Düfa PREMIUM PU PARQUET LAQUER D333
Reliable coating for garden and indoor furniture. Does not spread, sets quickly and dries. Resistant to impacts and damage. Work must be done inside a heated room; the air temperature affects the drying period.
Düfa PREMIUM PU PARQUET LAQUER D333
Consumption, sq.m/l | 12 |
Time for complete drying, h | 8 |
Time between layers, h | 2 |
2.5 liters will cost 2530 rubles.
Plus:
- can be layered at intervals of 2-12 hours.
Consumption
Many people are interested in how much alkyd varnish costs. This indicator depends on the type of mixture and your talent. Experts advise applying 2-3 layers of varnish. Each level should be applied only after the previous one has dried. Thus, it will take you at least 3 days to treat the surface.
The consumption of alkyd products is 50-75 grams per square meter. If you use more varnish than required, the polymerization time will increase. You also risk getting a less durable surface.
Before use, some brands should be diluted to a working consistency with xylene or solvent. You can mix one of these drugs with white spirit in a 1:1 ratio.
The best parquet varnish for decoupage
Quite often, decoupage varnish plays the role of glue: with its help, cut-out motifs are attached to the surface. Thin napkins are sprayed from a spray can. They tear easily, and processing helps them avoid deformation when glued to an object. It is also convenient to cover fragments printed on a printer so that the paint does not spread.
Taika Glow Tikkurila
Diluted with water, used for decorative purposes. Has a fluorescent glow. You can use it to decorate a child's room or show the way to the restroom in the dark if your child is afraid of the dark.
Taika Glow Tikkurila
Price 2900 rub. for 1 liter, which is enough for only 8 sq.m.
Biofa 2050 Universal
Created on the basis of oils, it ultimately gives a glossy, almost mirror-like reflection. Non-toxic, suitable for a children's room. Can be applied to all types of horizontal and vertical substrates. Dilute with solvent.
Biofa 2050 Universal
1 liter will be enough for 12-16 m², cost 2400 rubles. Completely dry in 72 hours.
Pinotex Lacker Aqua 70
Odorless parquet varnish gives a glossing effect, is ideal for decoupage, and is absolutely non-sticky. Non-toxic, which is why it is actively used to coat toys and wooden utensils. When working, it turns milky white. Becomes colorless when completely dry.
Pinotex Lacker Aqua 70
Price 1390 rub. per jar 2.7 liters. Consumption per layer up to 13 m²/l.
Pros:
- does not darken;
- antifungal, waterproof coating.
The best parquet varnish for outdoor use
They form an elastic film that can withstand adverse atmospheric phenomena: temperature changes, UV radiation, aggressive acids and alkalis.
Tikkurila Unica Super
Urethane-alkyd mixture is used to cover wood outdoors - benches, gazebos, fences, etc. It can easily withstand various operating conditions, reliably protecting the base from mechanical and water influences. The product is resistant to ultraviolet radiation.
Tikkurila Unica Super
When creating a multilayer structure, it is necessary to wait a day between layers to achieve a certain degree of drying. The semi-gloss mixture is applied by brush or spray. Consumption for single-layer application is 10 m2/l. Price for 9 liters – 7500 rubles.
Dulux Celco Yacht 90
Wear-resistant coating that is not afraid of either cold or heat. Gives the surface waterproof protection. Can be applied to color painting. Apply with a roller or natural brush. Ceilings, walls, floors – all parts of the interior can be covered. Subsequent layering can be done after waiting a 10 hour period.
Dulux Celco Yacht 90
Contains a solvent. The gloss level is dull matte. Consumption varies between 8-14 m2/l. Cost for 1 liter – 1950 rubles.
Pros:
- dirt-repellent;
- yachts, boats - right up to the water line.
Minuses:
- cover the outside with at least 3 layers;
- not for laminated substrates.
Temadur Clear
A two-component parquet varnish that is suitable for metal and wooden surfaces. Gives a super glossy finish. Frost-resistant, not susceptible to cracking under the influence of ultraviolet rays. It can be used to coat copper, brass, even galvanized bases.
Temadur Clear
One liter is enough for 10.7 m2. Cost 4.5 l 3250 rub.
Plus:
- gives metallic shine to furniture
Minus:
- you need to buy a hardener.
Dufa AQUA-PARKETTLACK
Dufa acrylic parquet varnish is diluted with water to obtain a wear-resistant layer during active use. Eco-friendly - does not cause harm during operation. Application can be done manually - with a roller or brush, or mechanically - with a spray. If a thicker coating is needed, apply several layers after 4 hours of drying.
Dufa AQUA-PARKETTLACK
One liter is enough to process 11 squares. Price 0.75 l - 1039 rub.
Plus:
- frost-resistant, UV protection.
Color palette
There are different polyurethane varnishes on sale depending on the type of decorative coating they create on the surface. So there are semi-gloss, semi-matte, glossy, matte products; this criterion does not affect the reliability of the layer.
But the glossy layer highlights any flaws in the base, so the surface preparation will have to be done very carefully.
If operating conditions require frequent exposure to chemicals, then it is better to choose a matte effect. Usually varnishes are colorless, but there are tint types that can change the shade of wood, refine the base, and make the necessary option for the overall interior design.
There are compositions that can be tinted to obtain the desired color after application.
Usually varnishes are clear, but there are tinted types that can change the shade of the wood.