(Although a bit pricier, microcrystalline has become my go-to wax, because it’s harder and more durable.) Unlike beeswax or carnauba, these synthetic waxes are non-acidic and won’t degrade antique finishes or corrode metals. Mineral waxes, such as paraffin and microcrystalline wax, are refined from crude oil. Floor waxes can be used on furniture, but they require serious elbow grease or a power buffer. Paste wax that’s heavy on carnauba is targeted to the flooring industry. Its hardness offers high shine and good durability, but it’s difficult to buff to a consistent sheen, which is why most commercial paste wax formulations combine it with beeswax. The most common vegetable wax is carnauba, obtained from the leaves of a Brazilian palm tree. However, pure beeswax remains sticky for a long time and is too soft to provide much protection, so better waxes replaced it. Grated and dissolved in turpentine, it served as a furniture polish up through the 18th century. Wax is derived from animal, vegetable, or mineral sources (Photo A). Here’s what you need to know to improve any finish or apply wax as a stand-alone finish. More than ever, it has a rightful place in a finisher’s bag of tricks. Given the benefits, it’s surprising to think that many woodworkers have omitted wax from their finishing regimen. Whatever the application, a waxed surface has a fine tactile quality that begs to be touched. And you can use it to rejuvenate dull or aging finishes. Wax alone isn’t a good surface treatment for objects that see hard use, but it works great as a quick finish for decorative items such as picture frames. Wax isn’t truly waterproof, but it can prevent damage from spills that are mopped up quickly. Waxed finishes are also more abrasion resistant and easier to keep clean than an unwaxed finish. Wax enhances the sheen of film-forming finishes by filling in minute scratches left behind by steel wool and other abrasives, creating a more light-reflective surface. While modern finishes are more resistant to moisture and scratching, wax still offers many benefits.Īlthough a buffed layer of wax may be only a few microns thick, it serves several purposes. Wax has been used for centuries as a protective coating and polish for wood, and is still a relevant product for today’s woodworker. Top off your work with a final lustrous touch.

Carnauba wax for wood