Sizing is a type of material applied to a porous material in preparation for paint, or other finish. Its purpose is to help prevent the paint or other finish from seeping into the material.
Types of Sizing
There are several types of sizing products available. They include certain types of glue and shellac. Shellac is a natural resin based product which is dissolved in alcohol, producing liquid shellac. It functions as sizing due to the fact it effectively locks out moisture.
Why Sizing is Important
Sizing is important because it helps to prevent liquid paints or other finishing materials from seeping directly into the wood. Wood is a naturally porous material and as such, is easily susceptible to liquids penetrating its surface. This can lead to a number of negative side effects.
Rotting is a common side effect of liquid penetrating the surface of wood and is characterized by peeling and warping of the wood. Another side effect that wood is prone to is expanding when liquids penetrate its surface. This can lead to bubbling, bowing and distortion of the sizing of the wood.
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