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Choosing the Best Clear Coat For Painted Wood is not an easy task. Wood finishes are available in many different forms and textures, so it can be tough deciding which one to use on your wood furniture projects. It’s important to know what you want before you start shopping around for a product because there are plenty of options out there that might end up being too expensive or completely wrong for your needs. To help make this process easier, we’ve reviewed 8 of the Best Clear Coat For Painted Wood on the market today.
When it comes to purchasing the best clear wood finish, you must first comprehend how long it will take to dry, the toxicity of the solution, the ease of application, and how quickly the wood becomes yellow. While a clear coat for wood may improve the grain and appearance, the durability of the finish must also be considered for exterior wood surfaces.
Many clear wood finishes are available in water or oil base and both have their unique properties that may benefit your project. Water-based products tend to dry faster, which can reduce bubbles and brush marks but they’re not as durable when compared to oil-based options. Oil is a more traditional method for finishing wood and it provides a high-gloss shine that is easy to apply. However, oil-based products take longer to dry and can yellow with time.
Summary of The 9 Best Clear Coats for Painted Wood
Choosing a Clear Wood Finish
Choosing a clear wood finish that is resistant to scratches and stains will ensure that your project looks great for a long time. To prevent the wood from yellowing, you should avoid products containing polyurethane. Instead of choosing a clear oil or water-based finish, opt for an alkyd resin that has a better resistance against UV light and humidity while also providing the same protective coating for the final coat.
When choosing the best clear wood finish for your project, you should know that each product will have its unique properties. Drying time and resistance to yellowing are just two of many characteristics that vary widely between products so it’s important to do some research before making a purchase decision. The most trusted brands in this industry produce quality products that will last for years, so make sure to take your time when shopping around.
Factors to Consider When Choosing The Best Clear Coat For Painted Wood
1. The Type of Project
The use of a clear protective finish on a project that will be subjected to plenty of usage, such as a tabletop, is more important than on one that will experience less wear and tear. Make certain you opt for a transparent protective finish that is appropriate for durable coating.
2. Exposure to sunlight and humidity:
Doors, windows, bathroom cabinets, kitchen countertops, and outdoor pieces can all be subjected to sunshine, temperature changes, and humidity. You’ll need a finish with ultraviolet absorbers and innovative oils that expand and contract as the temperature rises and lowers.
3. Crystal clear or amber tone
Many clear finishes, such as shellac and varnish, provide a warm, golden amber hue to the wood. Others are completely transparent. You may choose whatever aesthetic your project needs. If your project is a light color—whether stained or unfinished wood—you should utilize a completely transparent finish and cover it with wood sealants.
4. Ease of application
With a cloth, any clear finishes may be applied simply and without drips or brush marks. Some dry quickly and can be cleaned with soap and water, while others need mineral spirits and light coats.
5. Note for hardwood floors
Floors can be protected with any number of general-purpose transparent protective finishes. Minwax Corporation also produces topcoats that are designed specifically for hardwood floors. They have application advantages, making them ideal for large-area applications.
6. Durability and Longevity
When selecting a clear coat, it is important to choose one that will deliver optimal protection against everyday wear and tear without needing frequent reapplications.
7. Gloss Level
The amount of sheen you select for your clear coat is known as the gloss level, and it’s based solely on what look you want to achieve and your personal preference.
8. Drying Time
Time is of the essence. Consider how quickly you need to use your newly painted wood surface and take into account the drying time of a clear coat when picking out products.
9. VOC Content
For your health, and the well-being of the environment, opt for a clear coat with low VOC content or that is entirely free of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Doing so will not only protect you from harm but also reduce your environmental pollution.
How to Apply The Best Clear Coat For Painted Wood in 8 Steps
Tools Needed to Apply a Wood Finish
- Sandpaper or Sanding Block
- Tack Cloth
- Paintbrush or Sprayer
- Protective Gear
To ensure that your painted wood surface looks great and provides adequate protection, follow these eight steps to apply a wood finish clear coat:
- Preparation of the Surface: Before you spread the clear coat, double-check that the painted wood surface is clean and free from dust particles, dirt, and oils.
- Sanding the Surface: To create a smooth, silky finish on your wooden surface, you’ll want to use fine-grit sandpaper or a sanding block for maximum results. This helps to create a suitable base for the clear coat.
- Clean Surface: Once you’re done sanding, use a tack cloth or damp cloth to remove any debris from the surface.
- Applying the First Coat: For the smooth, flawless application of your first coat of clearcoat, equip yourself with a top-notch sprayer or brush. Starting at one end of the project surface, sweep your hand in long strokes until you reach the other end – avoiding overbrushing as this may create unsightly marks and bubbles on the finish.
- Allowing the First Coat to Dry: Following the application of your first coat, make sure to wait for it to dry as per the manufacturer’s guidelines. This usually takes between 1 to 2 hours.
- Sanding the Surface Again: After the first layer of paint has dried, lightly sanding with a fine-grit sandpaper or block will help to create a consistent surface and remove any flaws. This way your next coat can adhere more easily for optimal results.
- Applying the Second Coat: For the second coat of clear coat, apply it consistently just as done for the first layer. Make sure that you brush evenly and don’t overdo it to ensure an even finish.
- Allowing the Second Coat to Dry: After coating it with the second layer, let it dry fully before using your freshly painted wood surface.
RELATED: Types of Wood Finishes: A Complete Guide By A Professional
Best Clear Coat For Painted Wood: Top 8 on Amazon
Here are my picks for the top 8 clear wood finishes, based on my years of woodworking expertise:
1. General Finishes Urethane (Best Clear Wood Finish)
- Arm-R-Seal topcoats are made with only the highest quality urethane resin
- These topcoats are extremely durable and long lasting
- They are formulated to be wiped on with a cloth or applied with a foam brush
- Produces a beautiful hand rubbed quality finish
Manufactured by General Finishes, the Urethane provides a high-gloss shine that resists yellowing and damage. Application is easy with no brush marks or drips when used correctly. It is a water-based product that can be cleaned up with soap and water. This finish has been manufactured by General Finishes for over 40 years, making it a reliable choice to consider when shopping around.
Pros
- Dries fast
- Easy to clean
- Easy to sand
- Reliable
- Beautiful finish
Cons
- Not suitable for outdoor use
2. Polycrylic Clear Wood Finish 233334444
- PROTECT WOOD SURFACES – Minwax Polycrylic Protective Finish protects and adds beauty to your interior wood projects, including woodwork, furniture, doors and cabinets. The clear top coat protects against scratches, spills, dirt and more.
- CRYSTAL CLEAR FINISH THAT LASTS – The crystal clear finished offered in this protective coating is ideal for use over all Minwax Oil-Based and Water-Based Stains and colors, as well as all wood species including light woods like maple, ash and birch.
- SATIN SHEEN – Give your wood projects a sleek finish with this satin clear varnish. It not only protects the natural beauty of the wood, but offers an attractive, classic sheen for a modern and subtle look. It’s non-yellowing, non-ambering and low odor.
- ULTRA FAST DRYING – Get more done with this protective poly coating. It’s a fast-drying clear coat, which allows for quick recoats after 2 hours, letting you get projects done faster. Be sure to apply with a high-quality synthetic bristle brush.
- EASY CLEAN UP – This water-based wood finish allows for easy soap and water clean-up, so you don’t have to stress about spills and big messes.
This product has a low VOC and does not require sanding or other preparation before you can apply another coat. It is suitable for indoor applications but should be avoided if the furniture might come into contact with water as it will cause damage to the wood finish clear. The polyacrylic provides an even application that dries quickly without brush marks or drips.
It’s water-based and easy to clean up with soap and water, making it friendly for the environment as well as your furniture. A quick drying time means you can apply another coat quickly after applying the first one. It is also suitable for indoor applications such as cabinets and other pieces of furniture.
Pros
- Easy to use and clean up.
- Dries quickly
- No brush marks or drips when used correctly.
- Beautiful finish that is perfect for light-duty use.
- The water-based product is low VOC and easy to clean up with soap and water.
- Consistent finish.
- Does not provide heavy-duty protection and durability.
- Not suitable for outdoor use.
- Requires multiple coats to be effective against stains and solvents.
Cons
- May yellow over time, which may not be ideal for some projects.
- Spray application is susceptible to running and dripping
3. Polycrylic Wood Finishes
- PROTECT WOOD SURFACES – Minwax Polycrylic Protective Finish protects and adds beauty to your interior wood projects, including woodwork, furniture, doors and cabinets. The clear top coat protects against scratches, spills, dirt and more.
- CRYSTAL CLEAR FINISH THAT LASTS – The crystal clear finished offered in this protective coating is ideal for use over all Minwax Oil-Based and Water-Based Stains and colors, as well as all wood species including light woods like maple, ash and birch.
- SATIN SHEEN – Give your wood projects a sleek finish with this satin clear varnish. It not only protects the natural beauty of the wood, but offers an attractive, classic sheen for a modern and subtle look. It’s non-yellowing, non-ambering and low odor.
- ULTRA FAST DRYING – Get more done with this protective poly coating. It’s a fast-drying clear coat, which allows for quick recoats after 2 hours, letting you get projects done faster. Be sure to apply with a high-quality synthetic bristle brush.
- EASY CLEAN UP – This water-based wood finish allows for easy soap and water clean-up, so you don’t have to stress about spills and big messes.
A polyacrylic is a water-based, low-toxicity paint that is simple to use and dries quickly in ideal (low humidity) circumstances.
If you are looking for a less noxious clear wood finish then using polyacrylic is a great option for more noxious oil-based finishes. And, this finish is DIY-friendly.
This product provides a beautiful finish that is perfect for light-duty use. Although, it may yellow over time which may not be ideal for some projects.
The polyacrylic has been tested by General Finishes and is suitable for indoor applications when applied correctly. It also dries quickly without brush marks or drips if used correctly.
Pros
- Water-based product.
- Low VOC.
- Easy to clean up with soap and water.
- Dries quickly.
- Beautiful finish for light-duty use.
- Consistent finish.
- Will not yellow over time.
Cons
- It May require multiple coats to be effective
- Spray application is susceptible to running and dripping
- Not suitable for outdoor use
4. Spar Varnish Exterior Clear Wood Finish
Spar Varnish Exterior is a water-based, easy-to-apply clear wood finish without brush marks or drips. It is designed for outdoor use and provides a high gloss shine that resists yellowing. It also has excellent protection against the elements including rain, snow, sun damage, mildew, salt water air conditioners.
The spar varnish exterior clear wood finish will not yellow over time which makes it perfect for any weather conditions or projects where you want to keep the natural color of the wood.
Pros
- Water-based.
- Easy to apply without brush marks or drip.
- High gloss.
- Resists yellowing and damage from the sun, rain, snow, etc.
- Will not yellow over time.
Cons
- Not suitable for indoor use.
- Requires multiple coats to be effective against most stains and solvents.
5. Epoxy Resin 1 Gallon Kit For Bar Tops
Epoxy resin is a clear wood finish that provides excellent protection against the elements and comes in a kit that is ready for either indoor or outdoor use. This high gloss, self-leveling epoxy resin has UV and water resistance and will not yellow over time. It resists most stains including wine, fruit juice, and coffee.
However, this clear wood finish is not resistant to solvents so make sure you wipe up spills as soon as possible. This product comes in a kit that includes resin, hardener, roller tray, and spreader for easy application without any mess or clean-up needed afterward. It also provides an even finish that is ready to use with only one coat.
Pros
- Water-resistant
- Durable finish
- Self-leveling for bar tops or other heavy traffic areas
- Resists most stains including wine, fruit juice, coffee, etc
- Resistant to solvents
Cons
- Not suitable for indoor use
- Cannot withstand solvents such as nail polish remover or thinners so make sure you wipe up spills quickly.
6. Watco 63281 Lacquer Clear Wood Finish Spray, 11.25 oz, Clear Satin
- Ideal for use on furniture, doors, cabinets and paneling; not recommended for floors or exterior surfaces
- Formulated for a higher clarity finish than polyurethane
- Dries to the touch in 30 minutes and covers up to 40 sq ft
- Eliminates the need for wood filler and protects against scratches; no need to sand between coats
- Dries to a crystal-clear satin with a lasting durable finish
Watco 63281 is a clear wood finish that provides an easy-to-apply, even coat without brush marks or drips and has a fast dry time for quick turnaround. This product is designed with outdoor use in mind and provides excellent protection against the elements including rain, snow, sun damage, mildew, etc.
The lacquer clear wood finish spray dries quickly and has a consistent finish that allows it to be easily applied without any clean-up needed after finishing an area.
Pros
- Fast dry time for quick turnaround
- No brush marks or drip
- Consistent finish with each application without clean-up needed afterward
- Provides excellent protection against the elements including rain, snow, sun damage, etc.
Cons
- Not suitable for indoor use and must be applied in a well-ventilated area.
- Can be difficult to remove if not applied correctly or allowed sufficient drying time between coats for proper adhesion.
7. Liberon Pure Tung Oil, 250 ml
- Premium, pure and natural oil for wood care
- Ideal for use on food contact surfaces - kitchen worktops, chopping boards and salad bowls
- Provides a long lasting matt finish
- Water, heat and alcohol resistant
- Suitable for interior and exterior use
Liberon Pure Tung Oil provides an excellent wood finish that protects against the elements including water, sun, and heat.
This pure Tung oil is non-yellowing and UV protective so it does not turn an ugly yellow color over time, allowing you to use this product year after year without having to worry about the finish turning a different color or degrading in quality with age. It also provides excellent protection against water, sun damage, etc., making it a great choice for furniture or wood paneling in your home.
This non-toxic oil is easy to apply and maintain, with no sanding needed between clear coats which can be reapplied as often as you would like without having to worry about the surface becoming tacky or sticky over time. It dries quickly and does not yellow over time.
Pros
- Non-yellowing and UV protective.
- Long-lasting
- Easy to apply and maintain
- No sanding is needed between coats.
- Non-yellowing and UV protective.
- Long-lasting finish
- Easy to reapply without sanding in between coats or cleaning up afterward.
Cons
- Not suitable for indoor use such as furniture, floor, etc., due to the oil’s strong smell which can permeate through your home if not allowed to fully dry.
8. Varathane 200241H Water-Based Ultimate Polyurethane – Wood Finish Clear
- Protects indoor wood surfaces such as furniture, windows, cabinets, trim and more
- Water based formula dries fast and cleans up with soap and water
- Dries to the touch in 30 minutes with coverage up to 125 sq. ft., recoat after 2 hours
- Durable formula provides outstanding stain and scratch resistance with excellent clarity
- Satin finish provides a classic and natural look
Varathane 200241H is a water-based polyurethane that provides an easy to apply, even coat with no brush marks or drips and a fast dry time of under an hour.
This Varathane is odor-free and solvent-free, allowing it to be easily applied indoors without any worry about the strong smell that comes from other products on this list such as Liberon pure wood finish oil which can permeate through your home if not allowed to fully dry as well as other products such as Watco clear wood finish which contains acetone and mineral spirits.
The polyurethane is resistant to stains and wear, so it will protect your furniture from damage over time without becoming damaged itself or worn away after years of use. It also provides protection against water and heat for outdoor wood such as fencing or outdoor furniture.
Pros
- Odor and solvent-free.
- Quick-dry time of under an hour.
- Protects water.
- Resistant to stains and wear.
Cons
- Not suitable for indoor use since it is water-based.
- May need multiple coats in some cases.
9. Old Masters Ascend Water-Based UV Protective Finish
- Superior UV protection in an easy-to-apply, water-based formula. Dries quickly (30 min), multiple coats in one day.
- Resist moisture and weather, protects the integrity of the substrate. Coverage: 230-465 as.ft. per gallon
- Crystal clear, durable finish available in matte, satin, semi-gloss, and gloss sheens.
- Use on: Wood, Fiberglass, Coated Metal, Painted Surfaces, Window Sills, Doors and Door Frames, Railings, Outdoor Furniture, Marine Surfaces (above water-line), Craft Projects, so much more.
- Do not use on wooden decks, steps or fences, log homes, or surfaces below the waterline.
Old Masters Ascend is a water-based UV protective finish that protects against all types of damage including water, sun exposure, and heat. This product can be applied easily with a brush or cloth without leaving any streaks behind on the wood panel, and it dries quickly.
It also provides UV protection, so there is no worry about yellowing over time with this product- an issue that comes up in other products such as Tung oil or Watco clear wood finish which can turn a different color after years of use if not applied carefully. This polish will leave your piece looking bright and polished with a long-lasting finish.
Pros
- The water-based product can be applied quickly without streaking.
- Protects all types of damage including water, sun exposure, heat, etc.
- No need to worry about yellowing over time since it is UV protective.
Cons
- May require multiple coats for complete coverage.
- May require a protective layer such as wax or varnish on top of the finish to protect from damage if used outdoors.
Best Clear Coat For Painted Wood Application Tips
To ensure that your painted wood surface looks great and provides adequate protection, here are some application tips for clear wood finishes:
1. You’ll need to apply a protective layer such as wax or varnish on top of the finish if it is going to be used outdoors since water-based finishes can wear away after heavy use in many environments like Watco clear wood finish which contains acetone and mineral spirits. This will ensure that your piece lasts for years to come.
2. If you are using a water-based finish like Old Masters Ascend that can be applied with either a brush or cloth without leaving any streaks behind on the wood panel and dries quickly, make sure your piece is completely clean before applying. Any dirt particles left behind will accumulate in the coat of polyurethane, so make sure the piece is free of debris for best results.
3. If you are looking to achieve a glossy finish like Watco clear wood finish which contains acetone and mineral spirits then it will take multiple coats of polyurethane to get the highest shine possible after applying your first coat. The more layers you apply, the more high-gloss your piece will be.
4. If you are using an oil-based product like Tung oil or Watco clear wood finish which contains acetone and mineral spirits then it is best to use a natural bristle brush for application since synthetic fiber bristles can leave behind residue that will collect in the oil and leave a dirty looking finish.
5. If you are applying multiple coats of a water-based product like Old Masters Ascend then it is best to wait for the first coat to dry before adding another layer so that there is no bleed-through from the new application on top of your previous one. For instance, let each coat dry for 24 hours before adding the next one.
The Best Clear Coat For Painted Wood On The Market Today
1. Old Masters Ascend
This water-based product can be applied quickly without streaking and protects against all types of damage including water, sun exposure, heat, etc. It also doesn’t require multiple coats for complete coverage and dries quickly.
2. Canceller
This product is perfect for filling in any cracks or holes that might be present in your wood project. It dries quickly and provides a seamless finish that will last for years to come.
3. Watco Danish Oil
This oil-based product Penetrates deeply into the wood grain to provide long-lasting protection from water damage and sun exposure.
FAQs
What is the best clear coat for painted kitchen cabinets?
The best clear coat for painted kitchen cabinets is a water-based polyurethane. This clear coat provides excellent protection against wear and tear, dries quickly, and is easy to apply.
Can I apply a clear coat over acrylic paint on wood?
Yes, you can apply a clear coat over acrylic paint on wood. It is recommended to use a water-based polyurethane as it is compatible with most types of acrylic paint and does not yellow over time.
How many coats of clear coat should I apply to painted wood?
It is recommended to apply at least two coats of clear coat to painted wood. However, the number of coats may vary depending on the level of protection and shine that you desire.
How long should I wait between coats of clear coat?
The waiting time between coats of clear coat varies depending on the manufacturer’s instructions. However, it is recommended to wait at least 2-4 hours between coats.
Can I apply a clear coat over an oil-based paint on wood?
Yes, you can apply a clear coat over an oil-based paint on wood. It is recommended to use an oil-based clear coat for best results.
Can I apply a clear coat over an oil-based paint?
Yes, you can apply a clear coat over an oil-based paint. However, you should ensure that the paint has fully cured before applying the clear coat. Oil-based paints typically take longer to dry than water-based paints, so it’s important to give them ample time to cure before applying the clear coat.
Conclusion on Best Clear Coat For Painted Wood
Thanks for reading. I hope you found these tips and tricks helpful in your quest to finish a wood project. Remember that there is no one right answer when it comes to picking out the perfect product- what works best on some pieces might not work as well on others, so try different types of finishes until you find something that suits each piece.
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Reference: WikiHow
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