What primers do and why they belong in every spec
The Bona Primer range provides protection as well as being a build layer for the topcoats. A primer coat gives more control over the look and durability of the finished floor.
Bona primers should be applied as a single coat on bare timber before the topcoat goes on. Primers ensure the timber has an even look without discolouration or patchiness. They seal the wood so the topcoat cannot penetrate through, which prevents further grain raising when the topcoat is applied.
Primers are designed to minimise the risk of edge-bonding -- when the topcoat glues the floorboards together and prevents the timber from shrinking or expanding naturally with climate changes. Edge-bonding can cause boards to crack or cup.
Primers dry faster and cost less than topcoats, saving both time and money. Generally there is no need to abrade the primer before applying the next coat unless excessive grain raising needs to be removed.
All Bona floor finishes are non-toxic water-based coatings. The main difference between toxic solvent-based coatings and non-toxic water-based coatings is the amount of VOCs that evaporate as the finish dries. Bona's low VOCs mean no need to vacate the premises during application.
Bona White -- the Scandinavian whitewashed look
Bona White creates a light whitewashed appearance. On some timber species it can preserve the impression of raw, untreated timber. Best suited for lighter blonde floors to enhance and emphasise the natural colours of the species -- not recommended for high-tannin or darker timbers.
For a more solid white look, add an extra coat. For the most natural effect, pair with Traffic HD Raw, HD Extra Matt, or Mega EVO Matt topcoats.
- Non-toxic, non-yellowing
- Seals the timber for an even finish
- Reduces grain raising
- Minimises edge-bonding risk
- VOC 48 g/Lt (EC1PLUS)
- Coverage 10-12 m2/Lt
- Drying time 1-2 hours
Bona Classic UX -- natural timber appearance with better workability
Classic UX produces a light wood colouration and retains the natural appearance of the timber. Not recommended for high-tannin species. It is the ideal primer to use with Bona Traffic HD Raw for that ultra-natural look.
Easy to apply and quick to dry with excellent filling ability for an even finish film. The enhanced user experience characteristics include easier abradability and greater filling ability compared to standard Classic.
- Retains natural appearance with great build and even colouration
- Non-toxic, non-yellowing
- Seals the timber for an even finish
- Reduces grain raising, minimises edge-bonding risk
- VOC 48 g/Lt (EC1PLUS)
- Coverage 8 m2/Lt
- Drying time 1-2 hours
Bona Classic -- lowest VOC, ideal for softwoods and parquetry
Classic is particularly suited for softwood plank floors like Pine and for parquetry floors where greater movement is associated with both the species and the floor construction. Has the lowest VOC content in the range at less than 3%. Ideal where the aim is to keep the timber as light in colour as possible.
- Ideal for softwood and light coloured species
- Non-toxic, non-yellowing
- Seals the timber for an even finish
- Reduces grain raising, minimises edge-bonding risk
- VOC 24 g/Lt (EC1PLUS)
- Coverage 8 m2/Lt
- Drying time 1-2 hours
Bona Intense -- for high-tannin hardwoods and a richer look
Intense can be used on all timbers but is specifically recommended on species with high tannin content such as Blackbutt and Tallowwood. These species can develop an unsightly discolouration -- often described as a green or mouldy appearance -- known as tannin bleed. Intense minimises this.
Intense also gives a slightly deeper, richer, more golden appearance -- good for bringing out the natural warmth of the timber without using a stain.
- Reduces tannin bleed in high-content species
- Non-toxic, non-yellowing
- Seals the timber for an even finish
- Reduces grain raising, minimises edge-bonding risk
- VOC 84 g/Lt (EC2)
- Coverage 8 m2/Lt
- Drying time 1-2 hours
EMICODE and GREENGUARD certifications
All Bona primers meet strict EMICODE regulations for VOC levels on floor coatings. EC1PLUS is the most stringent classification, and at least EC2 level must be achieved to gain accreditation. Classic and Classic UX both achieve EC1PLUS. Intense achieves EC2.
Bona primers are GREENGUARD indoor air quality certified -- safe for use around the home, family and pets.