Warehouse storage of stacked Sayerlack product cans organized in rows and columns.

The history of Sayerlack

From vision to evolution, a commitment to innovation and excellence

Our history is a journey of research, evolution and global growth—always guided by passion, sustainability and a deep connection with our customers.

Since 1945, Sayerlack has been guided by a clear and enduring vision: to innovate, protect and enhance the natural beauty of wood. Our story is one of continuous transformation, driven by research, technological excellence and a deep commitment to sustainability. Over the years, we’ve expanded our expertise, embraced new materials and strengthened our global presence—always staying true to our values.

Today, as part of The Sherwin-Williams Company, we continue to evolve with the same passion and dedication that shaped our beginnings. Our history is not just a legacy—it’s the foundation of everything we build for the future.

1954

Foundation

Sayerlack is established, producing coatings for the protection and finishing of wood. From the very beginning, the company has been dedicated to innovation and excellence in wood treatment and finishing.

Vintage Sayerlack bottles containing colored wood treatment liquids with labeled caps.

1958

First R&D Laboratory

The first research and development laboratory is inaugurated, marking a key milestone in the company’s history. Guided by the pioneering vision of founder Giancarlo Cocchi, Sayerlack has since pursued continuous innovation, developing solutions that meet customer needs while enhancing and protecting wood—a precious and increasingly limited resource.

Operator in lab coat working with Sayerlack products and machinery in a clean industrial setting.

1988

Pioneering waterborne innovation

Sayerlack produces its first water-based coatings, marking a turning point in wood finishing technology. The Hydroplus line proves that waterborne topcoats can match the aesthetic quality, smoothness, and durability of traditional solvent-based polyurethane finishes, positioning the company as a global technological leader.

Close-up of a wood coating application using Sayerlack Hydro Plus water-based system, highlighting precision and sustainable finishing.

1989

Global expansion begins

Sayerlack opens its Singapore branch, strengthening its international presence. By this time, the company operates in over 80 countries, confirming its role as a global leader in wood coatings.

World map with black dots marking locations, mostly in Europe, and others across all continents.

2000

Hydro Gold: long-lasting performance

Sayerlack launches Hydro Gold, a water-based coating guaranteed to last up to 18 years, setting a new benchmark in durability. This milestone reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to research and innovation in sustainable wood finishing solutions.

2002

Wood Color Plus tintometric system for coloured coatings

Launch of Wood Color Plus, an advanced tintometric system for coloured coatings. Designed for speed and accuracy, it enables precise colour matching through volumetric dosing, ensuring consistent, high-quality results across a wide range of applications.

Circular gradient color palette with segmented hues converging at a white center.

2006

Wood Stain Plus tintometric system for transparent colours

Launch of Wood Stain Plus, a tintometric system designed for transparent colours. Using spectrophotometric readings, it enables precise matching of clear primers and stains to samples, offering enhanced flexibility and customization for wood coating professionals.

Red wood coating being poured into a container, with various color options displayed.

2010

Sayerlack Joins Sherwin-Williams

The Sherwin-Williams Company acquires Sayerlack, enhancing its global reach and technological resources. As part of the Industrial Wood Coatings Division, Sayerlack benefits from advanced solutions and distribution in over 115 countries.

Cleveland skyline at dusk with illuminated buildings and a deep blue sky.

2012

CoffeeProof: Stain-Resistant Innovation

Launch of CoffeeProof, a white waterborne coating designed to resist coffee stains. This solution combines aesthetics and performance, offering long-lasting protection for light-coloured wood surfaces.

Hand cleaning spilled coffee from a white surface with a cloth.

2014

H₂NO: Super water-repellent coating

Launch of H₂NO, a new coating designed to deliver exceptional water repellency. This innovation enhances surface protection while maintaining the aesthetic quality of wood finishes.

Red barn in snowy landscape, highlighting Sayerlack's water-resistant wood coatings (H2NO).

2017

Silky feel and seasideck coating systems

Launch of Silky Feel, a matt finish with exceptional softness to the touch, and Seasideck, a high-performance coating system for decking and seaside facilities. These innovations combine aesthetics and durability for demanding outdoor environments.

Silky Feel and Seasideck Sayerlack logos

2020

Ultra Matt: extreme resistance with minimal gloss

Launch of Ultra Matt, a range of 2K water-based finishes with ultra-low gloss. These coatings offer outstanding chemical and physical resistance, combining elegance with durability.

Modern living room with minimalist furniture, featuring ultra-matt wood coatings by Sayerlack.

2022

Resy IGF: Fire-Retardant PU system

Launch of Resy IGF, a polyurethane system that enables wood to achieve Class B fire classification according to EN13501-1. A major step forward in safety and performance for wood applications.

Spacious auditorium with wood finishes, ideal for showcasing Sayerlack’s fire-retardant coatings for public spaces.

2023

Satin Guard: extra matt, high-performance finishes

Launch of Satin Guard HP and the full Satin Guard range, featuring ultra-low gloss, anti-fingerprint, and self-repairing finishes for interiors. Available in solvent-based, water-based, and UV technologies.

Modern kitchen with wood and marble surfaces, protected by Sayerlack Satin Guard Coatings.

2024

70 years of success, passion and innovation in wood coatings

The 70th anniversary marks a significant milestone in the company’s journey of excellence in wood coatings. To celebrate, a specially designed bookcase and 70 books were donated to the municipal playroom of Pianoro, reinforcing a strong and lasting bond with the local community. Since 1954, research, quality, and sustainability have been at the heart of a mission to deliver innovative solutions for wood finishing. This anniversary is both a tribute to the past and a renewed commitment to shaping the future through technology, responsibility, and customer focus.

Group photo celebrating Sayerlack's 70th anniversary, highlighting decades of innovation in wood coatings.

2025

NISO: Sustainable, high-performance coatings

NISO product range: non-isocyanate (NISO) water-based coatings for interiors that reduce harmful substances, while improving chemical and physical performance, ensuring productivity, and maintaining a constant focus on sustainability. Traditional and UV, pigmentable with XA2006 pastes. Unique characteristic: specific crosslinker without any label in SDS and long pot-life.