Both oil- and water-based polyurethane can be applied to latex/acrylic paint; however, oil-based polyurethane will create a yellow or amber hue, especially to light colors. Learn when and where to use the correct one. Whether it's removing paint from baseboards and trim, or removing the varnish from furniture, chemical strippers can help you do the job. Consider using a dust collection system or air purifier. If it's a problem, simply use a rag to wipe it down. It is extremely durable and resistant to damage; however, over time it can begin to discolor and become scratched. You may have heard to only use steel wool, but many manufacturers recommend either one. Lacquer provides the extremely intense gloss finish often used on many Asian-inspired or ultramodern furnishings. As with shellac, water-based polyurethane won't hold up well to heat and chemicals. While the terms varnish, polyurethane, lacquer and shellac are commonly used to reference a final finish in general, these products are not the same, nor are they recommended to be used interchangeably. A couple of coats are usually enough, but you can apply additional coats (more wiped-on coats can be applied than brushed or rolled) to create a thicker and more durable finish. 8 Essential Wood Refinishing Tools and Supplies, How to Tell If Wood Furniture Is Worth Refinishing, What You Need to Know About Hardwood Floor Refinishing, What You Should Know About Engineered Wood Flooring, What You Should Know About Reclaimed Hardwood Flooring, 60+ Ways to Use Up Thanksgiving Leftovers. Follow this advice on the various types of wood finishes and when each one is used. The name of this finish often is used generically for a finish or top coat. Both oil- and water-based polyurethane can be applied to latex/acrylic paint; however, oil-based polyurethane will create a yellow or amber hue, especially to light colors. When applying a finish with a brush or roller you may notice some bubbles pop up. To add durability without affected color, use a water-based finish. Just be careful not to deeply scratch the finish and certainly do not sand off the finish to the point where you reach raw wood. Many times these will settle out as the finish dries. Use a water-based product if you're concerned about color because it won't yellow as much as an oil-based one. Packaging Polyurethane packaging foam (PPF) can provide more cost-effective, form-fitting cushioning that uniquely and securely protecting items that need to stay safely in place during transit. Oil-based takes much longer to dry and cure than water-based, so plan accordingly and follow the manufacturer's directions. The liquid variety is the best option for the average homeowner. DIYers can save money, but experience and know-how counts when refinishing hardwood floors. We love to DIY. Oil-based polyurethane levels out to a … Wipe-on polyurethane is used primarily by woodworkers who want to create a “hand-rubbed” finish on special projects. Also, shaking a can of finish will certainly add bubbles, so try stirring instead. In addition to adding a protective coat, it also can add a warm amber color to wood. Don't miss your favorite shows in real time online. Water-based oil-modified polyurethane is a relatively new product that combines the durability of an oil base with the cleanup of a water base. This finish is actually a natural product (it's made from combining a secretion from the female lac bug with a solvent such as alcohol) that is very safe once dried and hardened. You can often avoid this by applying a thinner coat. The general rule of thumb is to use natural brushes, sometimes referred to as China brushes, for all oil-based finishes (including paint), and synthetic brushes, sometimes referred to as nylon brushes, for latex, acrylic or water-based finishes. In addition to protecting the wood, it also provides natural ultraviolet light protection. Apply using a natural-bristle brush or rag. All rights reserved. Apply using a natural-bristle brush. After the first coat dries, you'll need to either sand it with fine-grit sandpaper (220 grit) or use steel wool. Clean your work area as thoroughly as possible and allow some time for the dust (literally) to settle. A refinishing expert provides the lowdown on the basic products you'll need for your next refinishing project. It goes on clear without adding a slight color that oil-based versions can, and it dries much faster. These two run the extremes of ease of use, but produce excellent results. Try not to exceed four or five coats of finish. Spar varnish is perfect for outdoor projects and for raw wood used for exterior doors and trim on rustic homes. Cutting boards and other wood items that come in contact with food do well with butcher-block oil and food-grade mineral oil. Polyurethane varnishes are super-tough ‘coatings’ popularly used as a finishing layer for protecting interior and exterior wooden floors, stairs and other surfaces prone to pedestrian wear and tear – some products can also be used on chipboard, plywood, hardboard, and parquet surfaces. When working with oil-based polyurethane, use a respirator in a well-ventilated area. To add durability without affected color, use a water-based finish. Apply it with a natural bristle brush or with a cotton rag. It also can go over oil-based finishes and can be applied using synthetic-bristle brushes, a foam roller or a rag, as can other water-based polyurethanes. Polyurethane can be oil- or water-based, and you can use either kind over latex paint; however, oil-based polyurethane tends to yellow as it ages, whereas water-based varieties stay transparent. Some shellac manufacturers recommend using it as a protective coat on non-wood items. Polyurethane use in medical applications can be more cost-effective and provide for more longevity and toughness. Water-based polyurethane is popular because of its low odor and low toxicity. Essentially a plastic in the form of a liquid until it dries, polyurethane is available in both water- and oil-based options, and comes in varieties from satin to glossy. Wipe off the dust created and apply another coat. Oil-based polyurethane is slightly more durable than water-based, especially when it comes to handling heat, so a kitchen table is a good candidate. It adds a slight color tone and will bring out the richness of wood. Reclaimed hardwood flooring wins points for sustainability, but it isn’t perfect. Minwax Polycrylic is an example of a fortified water-based polyurethane than can stand up a bit better to rough conditions. It's very durable because it contains a higher ratio of solids. © 2020 Discovery or its subsidiaries and affiliates. Test this easy-to-use stain product on your next DIY project. Let's get together. You love to DIY. It can be affected by heat (white rings will appear under a hot bowl or mug) or chemicals, so a kitchen table might not be the best place to use it. Here’s what you need to know. It also comes in solid form or in flakes that must be dissolved, and it has a shorter shelf life than other finishes. Rollers and rags can work for either type of finish. Privacy Policy. Is that flea market find worth your time and elbow grease? Follow this advice for picking out a proper wood finish. Learn how to choose and use wood stains and clear protective finishes. Our expert helps you decide. Get video instructions about kitchens, bathrooms, remodeling, flooring, painting and more. What's the Difference Between Polyurethane, Varnish, Shellac and Lacquer? Because these are the top coats being applied, you'll want them to look as good and as smooth as possible. You'll need a high-volume, low-presser (HVLP) sprayer and a well-ventilated and spacious workspace to apply it. Fine furniture items can be greatly enhanced with shellac.