Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Biscuit Joint • Dowel Joint • Wood Movement

Polyurethane

Term from Furniture Making industry explained for recruiters

Polyurethane is a common finishing material used in furniture making to protect and beautify wooden surfaces. It's like a clear protective coating that makes furniture more durable and gives it a professional look. Furniture makers use it because it's strong, water-resistant, and can create different looks from very shiny to subtle matte finishes. Think of it as a shield that protects furniture while making it look better. It comes in two main types: water-based (which is easier to clean up) and oil-based (which is more durable). When you see this term in resumes or job descriptions, it usually refers to someone's experience with finishing and protecting furniture pieces.

Examples in Resumes

Applied Polyurethane finishes to custom-made dining tables and cabinets

Specialized in water-based Polyurethane application techniques for high-end furniture

Trained junior craftsmen in proper Polyurethane coating methods and safety procedures

Typical job title: "Furniture Finishers"

Also try searching for:

Wood Finisher Furniture Maker Cabinet Maker Woodworker Furniture Refinisher Wood Coating Specialist Custom Furniture Maker

Where to Find Furniture Finishers

Professional Organizations

Job Boards

Industry Events

• International Woodworking Fair
• Local Woodworking Shows

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you handle complex finishing projects with multiple types of wood and different polyurethane finishes?

Expected Answer: A senior finisher should explain their process for testing finishes on different woods, managing multiple projects, and ensuring consistency across large furniture sets. They should mention quality control and training others.

Q: What safety protocols do you implement when working with polyurethane finishes?

Expected Answer: Should discuss ventilation requirements, proper protective equipment, storage procedures, and how they train team members on safety measures. Should mention environmental considerations and disposal methods.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the main differences between water-based and oil-based polyurethane, and when do you use each?

Expected Answer: Should explain that water-based is faster drying and lower odor but less durable, while oil-based takes longer to dry but is more durable. Should give examples of when to use each type.

Q: How do you deal with common finishing problems like bubbles or brush marks in polyurethane?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain troubleshooting techniques, proper application methods, and how to fix common issues during the finishing process.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What basic steps do you take to prepare wood for polyurethane application?

Expected Answer: Should mention sanding, cleaning dust, choosing the right environment, and basic application techniques. Should know about different grits of sandpaper and surface preparation.

Q: How many coats of polyurethane do you typically apply and why?

Expected Answer: Should explain the standard process of multiple thin coats, light sanding between coats, and why this approach is better than fewer thick coats.