Best Way Of Applying Polyurethane To Stained Wooden Dining Table
If you follow the instructions in this article, you can use oil-based polyurethane to achieve a smooth, spotless surface. Oil-based polyurethane varnish accentuates the beauty and grain of wood. Surfaces are coated with polyurethane wood finish, which helps them resist water damage and protects them from scratches. Understanding how to apply polyurethane can increase the lifetime of wood flooring and furniture by giving them a glossy, smooth sheen.
Step 1: Oil-Based Vs. Water-Based Polyurethane
Oil-based and water-based polyurethane are the two main varieties, and each has unique benefits:
- Water-based Polyurethane is transparent, odorless, and dries quickly. It is suggested for surfaces like desks, bookcases, and end tables that are rarely exposed to heat or the outdoors. More coatings could be necessary than with oil-based.
- Oil-based Polyurethane is more resilient and over time takes on an amber hue. It takes longer to dry and typically has a greater scent. It works well as a sealer for kitchen tables and other similar items since it can withstand heat better than polyurethane that is based on water.
Step 2: Polyurethane Sheens
Choose a polyurethane formulation based on your preferences because different formulations produce different levels of luster or gloss:
- The least shiny coating is left behind by Flat Or Matte Polyurethane, which also gives the appearance of raw, untreated wood.
- Satin Polyurethane is popular for flooring because of its low to medium sheen, which helps hide stains and dings.
- Both Gloss And Semi-gloss Polyurethane exhibit greater shine and reflectivity.
Step 3: Remove Old Finish And Sand
- If you take off any old paint, varnish, or other finishes before applying polyurethane, your topcoat will perform best.
- Sand the wood with a sanding block or an orbital sander to make it as smooth as possible in order to apply a smooth coating.
- On pieces that have been refinished, start with 80-grit sandpaper. On virgin wood, start with 120-grit.
- After carefully sanding the whole surface, use a clean cloth to remove any dust and loose sandpaper grit.
- Once all the markings produced by the 120-grit have been eliminated and the surface appears flat, continue sanding with 180-grit.
Step 4: Wipe Away Dust
- The purpose of a smooth topcoat can be defeated if dust motes or other particles congregate on wet polyurethane and produce a rough surface.
- Dust and vacuum the area and surface as thoroughly as you can after sanding.
- Use a moist, lint-free cloth or sponge to clean the surface. Applying water-based polyurethane requires dampening the fabric with water. Mineral spirits should be dampened if employing oil-based.
Applying polyurethane should take place in a well-ventilated interior space with an open window or fan to circulate fresh air in order to prevent outdoor dust and particles away from the surface. Oil-based polyurethane fumes are also lessened as a result.
Step 5: Apply The First Coat
Utilizing the best method for the surface, apply the first coat of polyurethane.
- Use a bristle brush to apply a thin coat to flat surfaces.
- With the texture of the cloth, gently wipe curved surfaces. Drips are more likely to form when brushing a surface that is rounded, curved, or vertical.
- Spray aerosol polyurethane in inaccessible locations. Hold the can between 8 and 12 inches off the ground.
A can of polyurethane should be mixed, not shook, before use. Shaking the finish can introduce air bubbles that could result in an uneven coat.
Step 6: Sand And Apply The Next Coats
- Sand the surface once again using 180 to 220 grit sandpaper to eliminate drips, bubbles, and other irregularities in the initial layer after it has dried for 24 hours.
- Apply 1 to 2 coats with a brush and 2 to 3 coats with a sprayer, repeating as necessary.
If sandpaper is unable to get rid of dried drips or other flaws, use a razor to remove them.
Wood finishes made of polyurethane are durable and water resistant. This makes it a well-liked substitute for more conventional coatings like lacquer or shellac. Understanding how to apply polyurethane to stained wood will improve the stain's appearance while safeguarding the surface from damage such as scratches.