Welcome to the Waterlox Blog

Four generations after Waterlox was founded in 1910 and the company remains committed now more then ever to providing superior finishing solutions that enhance and protect the natural beauty of wood.

So to launch our new blog it makes sense to post the history of Waterlox to give you a better sense of how the company has evolved over the years.

1910          R.L. Hawkins, Sr., establishes The Empire Varnish Company to produce a full line of exterior and interior paints, varnishes, enamels and stains.

1930s    The introductions of Waterlox Transparent leads to other tung oil-based finishes that become the company’s most prominent line. The Waterlox Division is established.

1940s    R.L. Hawkins, Jr., joins his father’s company.

1960s    The Empire Varnish Company becomes Waterlox Chemical and Coatings Corporation. R.L. Hawkins Jr. is named President.

1970s    J.W. Hawkins (3^rd Generation) joins the company, becomes president (1985), and continues to run the company today.

1990s    A name change to Waterlox Coatings Corporation signifies a continued commitment to delivering a new and expanded product line and a continued commitment to quality coatings.

2000s    Waterlox launches a brand new look for its tung oil line of Legendary Wood Finishes. Kellie Hawkins-Schaffner (4^th Generation) joins the company, reaffirming the Hawkins family’s commitment to quality, value, reliability and knowledge.