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Do you have a piece of furniture that could use some new life? Maybe you’ve been considering re-upholstering it, but aren’t sure where to start. Polyurethane is a great option for giving your furniture a fresh look without the hassle of upholstery. It can be applied in a variety of ways, depending on the desired finish.
To apply a polyurethane, you will need to: Choose the right type of polyurethane for your project, prepare the surface you will be applying the polyurethane to, and apply painter’s tape to any areas you don’t want polyurethane, starting in a small area, paint on a thin layer of polyurethane with a brush or foam brush. Allow the polyurethane to dry completely, use a piece of sandpaper to lightly sand it, remove the painter’s tape, and your project is done.
What Is Polyurethane?
Polyurethane is a synthetic resin that is derived from petroleum. It is available in both water-based and oil-based formulas. Polyurethane is most commonly used as a finish for wood floors, furniture, and cabinetry.
Why Use Polyurethane?
1. Provides a durable finish
Polyurethane is a very durable finish that is resistant to scratches, scuffs, and stains. It is the perfect option for high-traffic areas such as kitchens and entryways.
2. Enhances the beauty of the wood
Polyurethane brings out the natural beauty of the wood grain and can be applied in a variety of finishes, from high-gloss to matte.
3. Easy to apply
Polyurethane is very easy to apply and can be done in a few simple steps.
4. Protects the wood
Polyurethane provides a barrier against dirt, dust, and other harmful elements that can damage the wood.
Types of Polyurethanes
There are two main types of polyurethanes: water-based and oil-based. Water-based polyurethanes are less toxic and have a lower odor than oil-based polyurethanes.
They are also easier to clean up with soap and water. Water-based polyurethanes dry more quickly, but may not be as durable as oil-based polyurethanes.
Oil-based polyurethanes take longer to dry, but they are more durable and more resistant to scratches and scuffs. Oil-based polyurethanes also enhance the natural color of the wood.
Choosing the right type of polyurethane for your project will depend on your personal preferences and the type of wood you are working with.
Here are the supplies you will need:
How To Apply Polyurethane In 6 Easy Steps
Step 1: Preparation
Prepare the surface you will be applying the polyurethane to. If you are working on a piece of furniture, make sure to clean it thoroughly with a damp cloth. Remove any dust or dirt, and make sure the surface is completely dry before moving on. When you are working on a floor, sweep or vacuum it to remove any debris.
In case you are applying polyurethane to a concrete floor, use a wire brush to rough up the surface so that the polyurethane will adhere better.
Step 2: Apply the Tape
Cover any areas that you do not want to be polyurethane with painter’s tape. This includes hardware, legs, or anywhere else you don’t want the polyurethane to go.
Step 3: Apply the Polyurethane
Starting in a small area, paint on a thin layer of polyurethane with a brush or foam brush.
Make sure to get it into all the cracks and crevices. If you are using a spray bottle, hold it about 12 inches away from the surface and spray on a light coat.
Step 4: Let dry
Allow the polyurethane to dry completely before moving on to the next step. This will usually take a few hours, but be sure to check the instructions on your particular polyurethane product.
Step 5: Sand
After the polyurethane has dried (which should take about 30 minutes), use a piece of sandpaper to lightly sand it. This will help to smooth out the surface and give it a nice finish. Repeat steps three through five until you have applied the desired amount of polyurethane.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
Once the polyurethane is completely dry, you can remove the painter’s tape.
If you are happy with the finish, your project is done!
RELATED: Top 7 Best Polyurethane Water Based
FAQs on How To Apply Polyurethane
How long does polyurethane take to dry?
It usually takes a few hours for polyurethane to dry completely, but be sure to check the instructions on your particular product.
Can I apply polyurethane over the paint?
Yes, you can! It’s a great way to add extra protection to your painted surfaces.
How do I get polyurethane off my hands?
Polyurethane is usually pretty easy to remove from hands with soap and water. However, if it’s dried on, you may need to use a solvent like acetone or paint thinner.
Conclusion
To apply a polyurethane, you will need to:
- Prepare the surface you are working on
- Apply painter’s tape to any areas you don’t want polyurethaned
- Apply the polyurethane with a brush or foam brush (or spray bottle)
- Let it dry completely
- Repeat until you have the desired amount of polyurethane
Now that you know how to apply polyurethane, go ahead and get started on your next project. It’s a great way to add extra protection and durability to your furniture or floors. Be sure to follow all the steps carefully, and you’ll be able to achieve beautiful results in no time.
Have fun painting yours!
