There are so many clear finishes on the market that we find customers are not clear as to what they want. Follows are a few points that should help you get on track and help us help you in your final selection.
Unless you are looking for something special, you probably just want to use a standard urethane based product. This is the easy to apply, relatively fast drying replacement for varnish. If you call it Varathane (a trade name), Urethane or polyurethane, we assume you want this commonly used clear coat.
Urethane comes in different lustres. Most manufacturers offer a flat, satin, semi-gloss and high gloss. Like paint, there is no universal standard for these lustres so check the in-store sample board to make your decision. Most popular with our customers is satin. It’s rich, low lustre finish appeals to most people most of the time.
If ultraviolet deterioration is a concern (UV yellows the wood, imparting a usually very pleasant patina) then choose a product with UV inhibitors. UV inhibitors are not preventers, they just slow the process of degradation caused by UV light. Exterior urethanes and marine clear coats usually have UV inhibitors.
Use a brush designed for applying varnish. These brushes lay down the smoothest coats the easiest. I keep a brush only for applying urethane. I clean it properly and it serves me very well. If I have a small, quick job to do, a foam brush will work well. Some folks roll urethane, especially on floors. OK, but I prefer a brush. Even on the largest floor in the house, the brush gives the best control and still gets the job done efficiently. Use knee pads to save your knees!
Always sand between coats using a stearated sandpaper. It’s designed to sand between coats. Just a quick sand, you’ll soon get a feel for it because what it does is takes out all those little bumps. The result is a silky smooth finish which feels satiny and is easy to keep clean.
It takes very little extra effort to go from a not so great finish to a professional finish. We’re happy to guide you through your project, it won’t be long before you are applying perfect clear coats.
