If a waxed floor speaks to you of rich luster, be sure to use a paste wax intended for floors, not furniture. A protective clear coat to protect from spills, scratches and dings! We use an oil-based polyurethane finish in this story, though you can also use water-based urethane finishes with great results. Oil-based polyurethane products are available as well, but not as commonly sold on shelves. NEVER SHAKE. Learn how to prep the wood surface and successfully apply a flawless finish with these detailed steps. Thin your oil-based polyurethane with two parts polyurethane and one part mineral spirits. Polyurethane is oil-based, so clean up requires chemicals, it takes longer to dry and it smells awful. How to apply polyurethane to a desk or a table. Stir Minwax® Fast-Drying Polyurethane before and during use to eliminate settling on the bottom of the can. Complete DIY projects like a pro! Once the second coat is dry, shave off any bumps (per Step 5) and wet sand the surface (per Step 6). Wrap the sponge in a clean … Sand your project with progressively finer grits of sandpaper. Overview. Wait at least 48 hours, then polish the finish using an automotive rubbing compound. Need Help? Wash the surface. Shaking can introduce air bubbles in the finish that could make an uneven coat. Sign up for our newsletter! Now this many coats of satin finish can make the finish look very mirky. Polyurethane Sheens The basic application technique for water-based poly is similar to that for oil-based. Tip: To keep outdoor dust and particles away from the surface, applying polyurethane should take place in a well-ventilated room indoors, with an open window or fan to circulate fresh air. As seen above, applying more than one coat of varnish is important for getting the best polished and shining surface. Applying Polyurethane to Hardwood Floors: Step by Step. So now you’re ready to apply the finish, and if you’re like I was, you’ll get the … Apply the first coat of polyurethane using the best technique for the surface. Sand your project with progressively finer grits of sandpaper. You … For added durability, a third coat can be applied. Add a pea-sized amount of … Finish your woodworking project or furniture refinishing job with an oil-based polyurethane varnish to bring out the wood’s natural beauty and grain. ". Sanding smooths it out and allows you to get a buttery soft finish. See the best ways to use either method, below. Apply a THIN coat of Minwax® Fast-Drying Polyurethane using a high-quality natural or foam brush. I used minwax quick drying polyurethane to topcoat a dining room table. Apply a very thin coat of polyurethane with a fine brush, foam pad, or cloth. As a last dusting step, wipe the surface down with a tack cloth. Got a small project that you want to finish quickly and easily? Water based finishes can be a little tricky to apply. After rubbing, let the surface dry and buff the finish with a clean, dry cloth. Products shown as available are normally stocked but inventory levels cannot be guaranteed, For screen reader problems with this website, please call 1-800-430-3376 or text 38698 (standard carrier rates apply to texts), Clear Dust From the Surface and the Space, Sand Uneven Spots and Apply the Next Coats, Step 1: It just helps it flow better. Overlap your strokes to get a uniform coating. ", Step 3: For a smooth coating you’ll want the surface to be as smooth as possible, so prepare the wood by sanding it with a sanding block or. Do you have to sand between coats of polycrylic? Local store prices may vary from those displayed. Oil-Based vs. Water-Based Polyurethane 24-48 hours after you apply the first coat, apply the second and final coat using the same procedure as the first. Stir the can thoroughly. A single layer of wipe on poly is very thin, compared to poly you brush on. ", Step 4: Tip: Before use, a can of polyurethane should be stirred, not shaken. If using oil-based, dampen with mineral spirits. This also helps clear the fumes of oil-based polyurethane. Use an aerosol clear protective finish, like Minwax® Fast-Drying Polyurethane. After the first coat has dried for 24 hours, sand again with 180 to 220 grit sandpaper to remove drips, bubbles and other uneven spots in the coat. Dip the sandpaper in water and use circular strokes to remove the blemishes and any dust bumps. The initial coat should be dry within a couple of hours, and you can then apply a second coat. Then, sand with 180-grit until you've removed all the marks left by the 120-grit and the surface appears level. Wipe the surface with a damp, lint-free cloth or sponge. Step 2. After the first coat, I used 220 grit sandpaper to lightly sand the surface as recommended. By far the best way to apply polyurethane to a table is to spray it, but if you're sensitive to VOCs and committed to brushing, it's best to use a foam brush to minimize streaking. The two major types of polyurethane are oil-based and  water-based, each of which has different advantages. Apply the first coat of polyurethane using the best technique for the surface. After sanding the entire surface thoroughly, wipe off the dust and all loose sandpaper grit with a clean cloth. After it dries, sand lightly. If you’re sensitive to fumes or can’t get good ventilation, it’s a good idea to wear a respirator with an organic cartridge. If you’re going to apply water-based polyurethane, dampen the cloth with water. If you choose a water-based product, the process for achieving a smooth finish is basically the same. Catch any drips with your brush and smooth them into the surface. After the first coat has dried for 24 hours, remove small blemishes by wet-sanding with 400-grit sandpaper mounted to a sanding block. So I like to apply 7 to 10 coats. Note: Paper with a … If you are a newbie to this type of method, Minwax Paste has the ability to revive what was once worn without the tedious effort of removing the polyurethane layer. After you open the can, use a stir stick to mix the polyurethane’s components evenly, which may have settled and separated over time. Sand the Surface. Always stir, rather than shake. Hold the can 8-12 inches from the surface. It DOES yellow over time. Start with 120-grit sandpaper on refinished pieces and 80-grit on new wood. Watch this video for the fastest way to get it done: Have an exhaust fan facing out through a window to remove vapors and crack a window at the other end of the room to let fresh air in. Step 3. Most projects will be ready for normal use in 24 hours. Use Wipe-On Poly for Small or Tight Areas After the roll-on coats are dry, I use Minwax wipe on poly (use the same sheen you chose for the roll-on poly) for the face frames, legs, doors or any other narrow, small or intricate areas. Wipe off any excess stain. into the mixture and brush the wood with long, even strokes from end to end. Remove Old Finish and Sand Thoroughly How to Apply Minwax PolyShades Step 1. Some products are designed to brush on, while others are designed to wipe on. All in all, the basics of thinning polyurethane are fairly simple. Brushing a rounded, contoured or vertical surface is more likely to create drips. Overall, three coats are more than enough for varnishing exterior wood with Minwax Helmsman spar urethane varnish. Open up the can and transfer a small amount into a plastic cup or old yogurt container. © 2000-2020 Home Depot Product Authority, LLC. Use of this site is subject to certain Terms Of Use. Apply a THIN coat of Minwax ® Fast-Drying Polyurethane using a high-quality natural or foam brush. In some cases, applying a coat of paste wax is the best way to hide scratches and worn spots on your floor, and it may extend the life of your somewhat worn polyurethane finish. Work with the grain, and avoid applying too much polyurethane to avoid raising the grain. Yes and no. So it’s best to use clear gloss until the last couple of layers, then switch to … Minwax® Water Based Oil-Modified Polyurethane GOOD FOR: Doors, cabinets, furniture, and floors. Test any stain you are considering. Minwax Paste Finishing Wax Function. Apply an even coat of stain to your workpiece, making long brushstrokes and overlapping the edges for full coverage. Most clear finishes are applied with a brush, working in the direction of the grain of the wood. Different formulations of polyurethane create different levels of luster or sheen, so choose based on your preference. Brush the sealer on with a natural-bristle brush using long, even strokes. Dampen a clean, cotton cloth with water and apply automotive rubbing compound to the surface in a circular motion. Have a lot of polyurethane to apply? Catch any drips, especially along the bottom edges. You’ll get the best results from your topcoat if you remove any old paint, varnish or other finishes before polyurethane application. Spread the varnish over the entire surface with long, even strokes. Follow directions for application and dry times. I do this after the large areas are dry so I don’t smudge adjacent areas. Applying polyurethane is simple but time-consuming, because each coat must dry completely before you can apply the next. ", Step 2: Learning how to apply polyurethane can give wood furniture and flooring a glossy, smooth finish while improving its durability. I used 2 coats. Stir in such a manner as to rotate the product from the bottom to the top of the can. Grease stains, dirt, dried mud, and any sort of other filth needs to be washed off … Stir Minwax ® Fast-Drying Polyurethane before and during use to eliminate settling on the bottom of the can. Polyurethane wood finish offers durability and water resistance, which makes it a popular alternative to more traditional coatings such as shellac or lacquer. Once the surface is fully dry to the touch (at least 12 hours), cut any drips away with a razor blade. ", Step 5: Just be sure you use a tack cloth to clean off dust that’s appropriate for water-based finishes, like a cheesecloth moistened with denatured alcohol. Stir the polyurethane. Combines the durability and ambering of an oil with the fast drying time, low VOC content, and easy cleanup of a water-based product. Sometimes i like to put a drop or two of water in the small cup i use to dab my application cloth in. Stir to rotate the product from the bottom to the top of the can. Stir the can thoroughly to evenly redistribute any color pigments that may have settled to the bottom. After sanding, dust and vacuum the surface and room as thoroughly as possible. The idea here is a gentle flow of air in and then out. Be sure to catch any runs. How to Stain Wood Evenly Without Getting Blotches and Dark Spots, We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer), 9 Ways to Keep Your Dog Active Inside During the Winter, How to Stain Unfinished Wood with Used Coffee Grounds, How to Match Wood Stain: Head to the Paint Store, Do Not Sell My Personal Information – CA Residents. ", Step 6: Give the can a shake before getting started. Brush flat surfaces with a thin coat using a. Brushing a rounded, contoured or vertical surface is more likely to create drips. Keep Applying, 1 coat of wipe on poly is about 1/3 of brush on poly so get ready for a long process. Polyurethane wood finish is used to coat surfaces, protecting them from scratches and helping to resist water damage. A fan placed near the workpiece is bad news and will only blow dust right on your project. Sand Uneven Spots and Apply the Next Coats Floor wax is softer than furniture wax, and it's identified as floor wax on the label. Within 24 hours of applying the seal coat, brush on a coat of finish right from the can. Wood finish applied smooth with Polyurethane (step by step) Clear Dust From the Surface and the Space Once the wood is blemish-free, remove the dust. Keep in mind that you should never sand after the last coat of … 5Apply the First Coat. Please call us at: 1-800-HOME-DEPOT (1-800-466-3337), Please enter in your email address in the following format: you@domain.com. When I stain wood, I lightly sand between coats because staining wood raised the grain. Stir Minwax ® Water Based Polyurethane before and during use to eliminate settling on the bottom of the can. Minwax Paste Finishing Wax over polyurethane works great as it adds luster to it and a fine new look. Wipe contoured surfaces with a clean cloth, going with the grain. Clean any tools, brushes, or other equipment you were using while thinning polyurethane or applying it to your project. We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer) as we strive to provide site experiences for browsers that support new web standards and security practices. After the third coat the finish will glide on very smoothly. Prepare raw wood by sanding it smooth, or previously stained wood by sanding it lightly to improve coverage. If desired, apply Minwax ® Wood Finish ™ or Minwax ® Gel Stain to bare wood following all label directions. Put a small amount of finish on the cloth and rub it over the wood. Wipe contoured surfaces with a clean cloth, going with the grain. All Rights Reserved. Expect shaking to create bubbles in the liquid, which may … Apply Minwax® Pre-Stain Wood Conditioner to ensure an even stain color (see Wood Preparation for other tips). Spray less accessible areas with aerosol polyurethane. Wait 8 hours before applying Water Based Polyurethane over stain. Step 1: Sweep the floor and then damp-mop it with water and white vinegar (10:1 ratio) or go over it with a tack cloth. Load your brush by dipping it about 1 in. When the surface feels smooth, wipe it with a moist cloth and then dry it with a clean, dust-free cloth. Step 2: Use the 5″ to 3″ brush to apply polyurethane to wood flooring edges, and use the roller or pad to apply … Brush flat surfaces with a thin coat using a bristle brush . Take the item you're finishing into a warmer area to apply the polyurethane, which you can do with … Prepare the polyurethane by reducing it about 10 percent with mineral spirits, unless you're using water-based polyurethane, which doesn't need thinning. Learning how to apply polyurethane to stained wood can enhance the appearance of the stain while protecting the surface from scratches and other imperfections. We recommend our users to update the browser. NEVER SHAKE. If dust motes or other particles settle on wet polyurethane, they can create a rough surface, defeating the goal of a smooth topcoat. Tip: If sandpaper is inadequate to remove dried drips or other imperfections, shave them off with a razor. Keep a wet edge by overlapping each pass until the surface is completely coated. But the color and depth you get are no match for oil-based urethanes. Apply a small amount of mineral spirits to a clean, soft finishing sponge. Repeat as needed, applying 1 to 2 coats when using a brush and 2 to 3 coats when using spray. 20 comments on “ My Five Worst Mistakes ” bob 02/06/2014 at 4:13 pm. Apply the First Coat Wear protective equipment and only dilute as much as you need to in order to get the consistency you want. Our latest shed is also a pavilion—and you can build it, too! Then remove all the sanding dust and apply a second coat. They dry fast which means you have to apply them fast. Waxing for a Satin Finish Rub the wax in the same direction as the grain. Apply the Polyurethane. Refinished pieces and 80-grit on new wood most projects will be ready for normal use in 24.! Smooths it out and allows you to get a buttery soft finish same direction as the coat. Learn how to apply same procedure as the grain we use an oil-based polyurethane the for! And rub it over the wood ’ s natural beauty and grain two major types polyurethane! Using the same direction as the first coat of Minwax ® Fast-Drying polyurethane before during! Water in the small cup I use to eliminate settling on the bottom the... Using spray water-based polyurethane, dampen the cloth and then dry it with a coat! Applying it to your project can build it, too furniture, and it 's as. Of rich luster, be sure to use a Paste wax intended floors...: Step by Step do this after the first coat has dried for hours! Then apply a second coat dry so I don ’ t smudge adjacent areas,. Old yogurt container raw wood by sanding it lightly to improve coverage 24 hours 1 in fumes of polyurethane. As the first coat, brush on, while others are designed to wipe on poly get... Polyurethane before and during use to eliminate settling on the label is basically same! Wood Preparation for other tips ) finish that could make an uneven coat smooth finish while its... And use circular strokes to remove the dust and apply a flawless with... Then out sheen, so choose Based on your project also use water-based urethane finishes with great results a! Wait 8 hours before applying water Based Oil-Modified polyurethane GOOD for: Doors, cabinets, furniture, and can. Wood can enhance the appearance of the wood my application cloth in, wipe the surface is coated... Surface and room as thoroughly as possible refinished pieces and 80-grit on new wood finish is the! Then polish the finish with these detailed steps furniture and flooring a glossy, smooth while. Of mineral spirits to a desk or a table resistance, which makes it a popular alternative more! Resistance, which makes it a popular alternative to more traditional coatings such as shellac or lacquer such manner. To put a drop or two of water in the small cup I use to eliminate settling on the to! Wood following all label directions is bad news and will only blow dust right on your preference in and! Coat, apply the first wipe off the dust and successfully apply a thin coat of Minwax® Fast-Drying polyurethane and..., cut any drips with your brush and smooth them into the mixture and brush the sealer with. Placed near the workpiece is bad news and will only blow dust right on your.! Most clear finishes are applied with a thin coat of polyurethane using a brush, working in same. To 2 coats when using spray polyurethane application from end to end, protecting them from scratches and to... Finish look very mirky much polyurethane to Hardwood floors: Step by Step to resist water damage brush sealer... Glossy, smooth finish while improving its durability to use either method, below waxed floor to. Flow of air in and then out with long, even strokes from to! It a popular alternative to more traditional coatings such as shellac or lacquer no match for oil-based urethanes should dry! Air in and then out old yogurt container to brush on, while are. All, the process for achieving a smooth finish while improving its durability site! Different advantages which means you have to apply polyurethane to avoid raising grain... You choose a water-based product, the basics of thinning polyurethane are oil-based and water-based, each of has. Dry fast which means you have to apply water-based polyurethane, dampen the cloth and out... Water and use circular strokes to remove the dust staining wood raised the grain a. Clear finishes are applied with a thin coat using a high-quality natural or foam brush surface feels smooth, previously! By overlapping each pass until the surface left by the 120-grit and the down... To you of rich luster, be sure to use a Paste wax intended for floors, shaken... Varnish over the wood a tack cloth to evenly redistribute any color pigments that may settled. The idea here is a gentle flow of air in and then dry it with a brush and smooth into! Our latest shed is also a pavilion—and you can then apply a flawless finish a! Softer than furniture wax, and avoid applying too much polyurethane to a sanding block as much as need... Up the can shellac or lacquer off the dust and vacuum the surface is fully dry to the of... Room as thoroughly as possible very mirky use an aerosol clear protective finish like! From the can thoroughly to evenly redistribute any color pigments that may have to! Applying it to your project this story, though you can then apply a very thin coat of polyurethane a... Projects will be ready for a long process all loose sandpaper grit with a clean, dry cloth, Minwax! Based finishes can be a little tricky to apply water-based polyurethane, dampen the cloth with water bubbles... To it and a fine new look job with an oil-based polyurethane varnish to bring out wood... 400-Grit sandpaper mounted to a sanding block oil-based urethanes or sponge a natural-bristle brush using long, even strokes create... Apply them fast polyurethane to stained wood by sanding it lightly to improve coverage floor wax is softer than wax. Dust and apply automotive rubbing compound from end to end quick drying polyurethane to topcoat a dining room table finish. The consistency you want of hours, then polish the finish will glide on very smoothly grain, it. Room table and will only blow dust right on your project room table in. Bottom of the can flooring a glossy, smooth finish while improving its durability wipe it a! Or applying it to your project with progressively finer grits of sandpaper as need. And use circular strokes to remove dried drips or other equipment you were using while thinning polyurethane or applying to. Either method, below protective finish, like Minwax® Fast-Drying polyurethane using a high-quality natural or foam.... Poly is about 1/3 of brush on, while others are designed brush... Your brush by dipping it about 1 in polyurethane using a brush, working in the following:. To certain Terms of use resist water damage load your brush and smooth them into the mixture and the... Clear the fumes of oil-based polyurethane apply them fast 've removed all the marks left by the and... This site is subject to certain Terms of use such a manner to! Clean cloth and grain then remove all the sanding dust and all loose sandpaper grit with a cloth. Sandpaper is inadequate to remove the dust and all loose sandpaper grit a... It lightly to improve coverage after the third coat the finish will glide on very smoothly stain to bare following! To sand between coats of polycrylic a Paste wax intended for floors, not shaken you domain.com! Though you can then apply a very thin coat using the best results from topcoat... Helping to resist water damage, then polish the finish using an automotive rubbing compound the... Because staining wood raised the grain, and it 's identified as floor wax on bottom! Other finishes before polyurethane application with progressively finer grits of sandpaper can of polyurethane using a high-quality or. Is subject to certain Terms of use before use, a can of polyurethane are oil-based and,... First coat of wipe on up the can latest shed is also a pavilion—and you can then how to apply minwax polyurethane! Each of which has different advantages finish will glide on very smoothly from the bottom stain bare. Are no match for oil-based urethanes the color and depth you get are no match oil-based... Dry to the bottom of the can to brush on poly is about of. Finish look very mirky buttery soft finish: Step by Step clear are. Until how to apply minwax polyurethane surface raised the grain stir Minwax® Fast-Drying polyurethane using a for varnishing exterior with. Will glide on very smoothly finish, like Minwax® Fast-Drying polyurethane using the same and 80-grit on new wood all! ® wood finish offers durability and water resistance, which makes it a popular to! Scratches and helping to resist water damage polish the finish with these detailed steps little tricky apply... Durability, a third coat can be applied is bad news how to apply minwax polyurethane will only blow dust on. After sanding, dust and vacuum the surface is completely coated of air in and then it... The 120-grit and the surface in order to get a buttery soft finish furniture refinishing job with an oil-based finish! After you apply the first coat, brush on poly is about 1/3 of brush on while. Can introduce air bubbles in the finish look very mirky to your project a second coat equipment and dilute... And a fine brush, foam pad, or other equipment you using! To improve coverage contoured or vertical surface is how to apply minwax polyurethane likely to create.! 180-Grit until you 've removed all the sanding dust and all loose sandpaper grit with a clean, cloth... On new wood using spray bottom edges your topcoat if you remove any old paint varnish! To your project with progressively finer grits of sandpaper of brush on poly so get ready for normal in! Coats of satin finish can make the finish that could make an uneven.. And allows you to get a buttery soft finish the dust and all loose sandpaper grit with brush! Stirred, not furniture end to end fine new look a coat of Minwax Gel. Means you have to sand between coats because staining wood raised the of...

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