Should You Use Chalk Paint Wax
Chalky finish furniture paint is a great alternative to traditional paint because it’s easier to use and gives a beautiful finish. However, sometimes you may find that your painted finish needs an extra boost in the durability department. This is where chalk paint wax comes into play.
In this blog post we’ll discuss 5 things about chalk paint wax you need to know before using it on your next project- so keep reading!
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What is Chalk Paint Wax used for?
For your painted furniture to last, it’s wise to protected the surface from everyday use and dust.
Chalk paint wax (aka: furniture wax) usually comes in solid form and is meant to add a layer of protection to your newly painted furniture.
It is usually “buffed” in to the painted finish and leaves a beautiful low sheen, satin-like finish.
5 Things to Know about Chalk Paint Wax
If you are thinking of using wax on your freshly painted furniture, here are the key things to know:
- The process of waxing furniture is similar to waxing a car
- The application is often favored by furniture painters due to the how forgiving chalk paint wax can be
- Chalk paint wax may not hold up against scratches
- For ongoing protection, reapplication is required every several months
- If left in temperatures too warm, it wax may liquify or even melt after application
Let’s dive into each of these points with further explanation and address the most common questions when using furniture waxes.
How do I Apply the Wax?
Furniture wax is traditionally applied with a furniture finishing wax brush and a lint free cloth.
Always make sure your paint is 100% dry before applying the wax.
Some recommend you leave the paint to dry overnight before you apply the wax. However, I’ve waxed a piece of furniture as soon as 3 hours after application.
It’s best to refer to the manufactures instructions for application guidance.
The application process is very similar to waxing a car.
Wax Application Steps:
- Load your brush with the furniture wax. This is usually done by “dabbing” or “swirling” the brush in the can.
- Once the brush is loaded with wax, apply the wax to the painted surface using a small, circular motion.
- After wax has been applied to the entire surface, take a lint free cloth and buff the wax using the same small circular motion.
- Repeat the steps above until desired protection is achieved.
When Should you use Chalk Paint Wax?
Chalk paint wax is an additional product that can be used to add a layer of protection and durability.
It is best used on surfaces that will be exposed to light use.
Why? Because it’s is not always durable enough to stand up to light scratching or accidental bumps.
For the ultimate durability, you may opt to skip the wax and use a clear top coat protectant. However, the application process for a clear top coat tends to be more finicky than wax.
Related Reading: The Ultimate Guide to Sealing Painted Furniture
Does it need to be Reapplied?
Yes, furniture wax will need to be reapplied every now and again.
How often you need to reapply it will depend on how much it is used and your personal preference.
For example, I painted a set of frames for the wall, waxed them once about a two years ago and haven’t touched them since. They do no experience much wear and tear, so I don’ worry about them much.
I also have a bedroom nightstand that I wax about every two years. It is usually well overdue by the time I get around to waxing it, but the painted finish is still holding up beautifully.
If you are looking to stay on top of reapplying chalk paint wax to your furniture, you will likely be looking at every 9-12 months.
Also, make sure you store chalk paint wax in recommend temperatures listed on the can.
And, it’s best to avoid wax on a piece of furniture that gets direct sunlight on the surface.
How Much Chalk Paint Wax Should I Use?
Brands make chalk paint wax in various sizes.
A common size is 8 ounces, which is usually enough to protect a larger six drawer dresser or several smaller pieces.
Usually, one full coat of chalk paint wax will do the trick.
What Should I do if Chalky Paint Starts to Lift off the Surface?
Some readers have experienced their chalky paint lifting from the surface as the chalk paint wax is being applied.
The most common reason for this is the paint was not dry enough.
There may have also been a small “pooling” of wet paint in a corner that was not large enough to easily see. If the wax brush grabs ahold of the wet paint, it may drag away from the non painted areas.
Always make sure the paint is dry on every inch of the surface before wax. When it doubt, allow the unfinished painted surface to sit overnight before waxing it.
In rare scenarios, it may be the wax brand you are using has ingredients that are not compatible with the paint brand you are using.
Not that either brand is “wrong” or “bad”. It’s just a scenario similar to trying to mix oil and water; it just doesn’t work.
This scenario would usually only happen if you were using a different brand of paint than wax.
Is Wax Waterproof?
While wax produces a layer of protection against accidental spills, most brand are not waterproof.
Be sure to clean up any spills or drips as soon as you can to make sure it does not damage the surface long term.
Do you Have to Use Wax on Chalky Paint?
The answer to this question will depend who you ask and their personal experiences with painted furniture.
Short answer, no, you do not have to use wax on chalky paint.
If the surface will get regular use/wear and tear, I recommend protecting it with wax or a clear coat if you want the finish to last.
If you love the look of vintage/distress/rustic and don’t mind if the surface wears overtime, you could skip protecting it all together.
However, keep in mind that an unprotected surface is more vulnerable to collecting dust. On light painted colors, this can be difficult to clean long term.
Is Chalk Paint Wax Toxic?
Most furniture waxes are generally non-toxic and safe to use around children or pets.
However, some brands of wax can be harmful if ingested so be sure to keep it out of reach of children or pets when you are not using it.
If you’re wanting to avoid harsh chemicals, find a chalk paint wax brand that has easy to pronounce ingredients that you are familiar with.
What are the Benefits of Wax?
-It helps protect your newly painted surface from general everyday use.
-It provides a beautiful sheen that is similar to the chalky finish that chalk paints produce.
-Chalk paint wax is easy to apply and absorbs quickly. This means it won’t have a negative impact on your project timeline, or cause you any unwanted delays with other projects in progress.
-Many waxes have very little odor (just be sure you find one that doesn’t have a list of ingredients you can’t pronounce!)
-The sealant will help the chalk paint last longer as well as give it a more durable finish.
-Chalk Paint Wax is easy to apply when using a specially furniture wax brush
What are the Drawbacks of Chalk Paint Wax?
-It can be difficult to remove chalk paint wax, so make sure it is the protectant you want for your piece.
-For long-lasting protection, chalk paint wax will need to be reapplied every 9-12 months
Where to Buy Chalk Paint Wax
With so many furniture wax brands available, it can be hard to know which chalk paint wax is best for you.
If you’re looking for an easy to apply, chemical free wax, Vintage And Restore By K’s all natural Furniture Wax is the way to go.
It contains only three simple, all natural ingredients and is available in unscented or scented with lavender and orange.
Until next time,
Krista
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