Aquatic Wood Coating Brings Environmentally-Safe Wood Finishes to Michiana Writer / Angela Cornell Photography Provided
Woodworking is an awe-inspiring form of artistry. From the time the craftsman chooses a piece of wood, he has an idea of what he will do with it. Based on that concept, he fashions something unique, whether that’s a table, a lap desk or even kitchenware like a bowl or spoon. After the final nail has been pounded in and the edges have been sanded, the project isn’t done — not until it is finished or coated with paint or a transparent stain that will enhance the woodgrain and add some color. Since the early 1900s, oil-based stains have been widely used, and preferred, by woodworkers around the world. There are
dozens of different natural-looking colors to choose from, from ebony, which is a dark black-brown, to pine, which is a pale beige. Since these stains dry slowly, it has an even look to it. However, oil-based finishes also have drawbacks, like fading over time, being less environmentally-friendly and having odorous fumes that can linger for months after application. Water-based finish is a relatively new kid on the block in the woodworking world. Although it doesn’t provide as much protection from the elements and requires more maintenance, it has plenty of benefits. Water-based coating lasts longer, is much less flammable, dries faster and cleans easier. Aquatic Wood Coating, a business in TheLakesMagazine.com / AUGUST 2020 / THE LAKES / 59
Millersburg, specializes in water-based finishes. “We provide a finishing service and we distribute retail and wholesale exterior and interior paints,” says business owner Lavern Yoder. “What sets us apart from an average finish shop is that we are all water base.” Yoder, who was in the furniture coating business for 16 years before starting Aquatic Wood Coating, was made aware of waterbased options when the environmental movement gained momentum in the 2000s and 2010s. “I knew that water-bases were going to be coming in,” Yoder says.
