Water-based wood coating – Definition, Advandtage, Function

Water-based wood coating is a growing trend in the green manufacturing industry, gradually replacing traditional solvent-based paints that contain toxic chemicals. These coatings are formulated from copolymer resins and eco-friendly additives, using water as the primary solvent instead of gasoline, oil, or toluene.

Thanks to this, water-based paints have low odor, are non-toxic, and are especially suitable for living spaces with children or sensitive individuals. Unlike solvent-based coatings, they are non-flammable, making the application process significantly safer.

Quick summary of what water-based wood coatings are?

Water-based wood coatings use water instead of chemical solvents. They are low in odor, fast-drying, non-yellowing, and especially safe for users, particularly children and the elderly.

II. Key Advantages of Water-Based Coatings Over Traditional Solvent-Based Paints

As a newer generation of wood coatings, water-based products offer superior performance. They overcome many limitations of traditional paints – no need for solvent mixing, easy to clean, safe, and easy to apply. Moreover, water-based paints dry faster as the water-based compounds evaporate more quickly than oil-based solvents.

Advantages	Water-based Wood Coatings	Traditional PU Coatings
Safe level	High – Non-Toxic	Contains a high level of VOCs and hazardous solvents
Odor	Low odor	Strong odor, irritating smell
Drying time	Fast (30–60 minutes)	Slower (hours to a full day)
Yellowing over time	No, Biochem offers anti-yellowing primers for tannin-rich wood	Yes, yellowing may occur
Ease of Application	Easy	Offers anti-yellowing primers for tannin-rich wood
Application steps	Fewer steps	More complex process

III. Biomass – Premium, Safe Water-Based Wood Coating Solutions

Biomass is a pioneering Vietnamese brand in international-standard water-based wood coatings. The products are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, from DIY home projects to large-scale manufacturing.

International Certifications:

• GREENGUARD GOLD – Certified low chemical emissions, ensuring safe indoor air quality

• EN71-3 – Child-safe coating standard

• REACH, CPSIA, IKEA, IOS-MAT-0066 – Compliant with EU and US export regulations

Featured Product Lines of Biomass Wood Coatings

• WB Water-Based Coating: Designed for interior wood surfaces. Fast-drying and easy to apply on solid wood and engineered panels like MDF, particleboard (PB), plywood, laminate, melamine, etc.

• Modified PA Coating: An advanced PU-based product that dries in 60–90 minutes at room temperature with reduced odor. Applicable to wood, concrete floors, cement, and metals. Ideal for both interior and exterior furniture.

• UV Exterior Coating: High hardness and excellent scratch resistance. Withstands harsh weather, offers long-lasting color retention, and chemical resistance – perfect for outdoor wooden structures.

IV. Common Applications of Biomass Water-Based Coatings

Modern water-based wood paints can be used on a wide range of surfaces, both indoors and outdoors. Contrary to old beliefs that water-based paints peel easily or lack shine, new-generation coatings are highly durable, water-resistant, and weatherproof.

Applications include:

• Home Furniture: Tables, chairs, wardrobes, beds…

• Children’s Furniture: Cribs, bunk beds, study desks – where safety is critical

• Exterior Wood: Wooden doors, railings, pergolas, garden houses…

• DIY Projects: Refurbishing cabinets, decorating wooden boxes, handcrafting wood decor

V. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about water-based paint 

Is water-based paint as durable as PU?
→ Yes, especially when using Biomass Modified PA or UV Exterior lines. WB coatings also offer excellent scratch, water, and weather resistance.

Does it adhere well?
→ Absolutely – provided the wood surface is properly prepared (well-sanded and primed).

Can it be used on pine, sapele, or engineered wood?
→ Yes. Biomass water-based coatings are compatible with most types of natural and engineered wood.

VI. Conclusion

Water-based wood coatings are becoming the new standard in furniture finishing thanks to their safety, convenience, and aesthetic quality. If you are seeking a smart, eco-conscious alternative to solvent-based coatings, start with Biomass. Proudly made in Vietnam, globally certified, and dedicated to protecting your home and your health.

Ref: American Coatings Association