What is the Best Clear Coat for Painted Wood?: Top 5

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Painted furniture may last a lifetime if properly sealed, but What is the Best Clear Coat for Painted Wood? It’s difficult to know which clear coat is ideal for painted wood. There are a variety of alternatives, and you must know what you’re searching for before making a selection. We’ll go through the top five best clear coats for painted wood and provide a buyer’s guide so you can discover the finest solution for your needs.

Summary For The Best Clear Coat For Painted Wood

1 gal Rust-Oleum Brands 250031 Clear Varathane, Diamond Water-Based Spar Urethane, Gloss

What is a Clear Coat for Painted Wood?

A clear finish (often referred to as a poly finish or top coat on painted furniture) is a transparent protective layer that you apply to your painted or stained furniture item after it has dried. It provides the piece with a shield against scratches, water rings from drinking glasses and other types of dirt.

Why Do You Need To Coat Wood?

Painted wood needs to be coated to protect it from damage and wear. A clear coat will also make your furniture shine and look new for longer. It is important to note that a clear coat is not the same as varnish or lacquer.

Varnish and lacquer are thicker finishes that can yellow over time, whereas a clear coat will remain transparent.

Does Chalk Paint Need Sealing?

Chalk paint does not need to be sealed if you are using it on an item that will not see a lot of wear and tear, such as a picture frame. However, if you are using chalk paint on a piece of furniture that will get daily use (such as a coffee table), then you should seal it with a clear coat.

How To Choose the Right Paint for Painted Wood

Because dirt can’t get through the protective layer, cleaning furniture is a breeze. Instead of wiping cleanly and effortlessly from the topcoat, dirt is wiped away. Clear coats come in a variety of sheens (flat, satin, semi-gloss, and glossy). You may also select from oil-based or water-based transparent varnishes that dry quickly.

Water-based clear coat best for painted wood: The general rule of thumb is to use a water-based polyurethane for painted surfaces and an oil-based varnish on stained pieces. This brings us to another important point; you must choose the best type of finish based on whether your furniture has been stained or painted.

Some wood sealants might be more difficult to apply, but they may also leave a yellow haze on white components. Some can also create hazy streaks that are obvious on dark furniture items, therefore choosing the proper transparent finish for your painted wood furniture is critical.

What Furniture Pieces Need a Clear Coat?

A protective finish is required for any hard goods that get a lot of usages regularly. We recommend using a transparent coat on dining tables, coffee tables, workstations, end tables, or entry tables because they are all used frequently and subjected to wear and tear.

I apply a transparent coat to clean paint colors to guard against smudges and dust. Also, any furniture that is frequently exposed to humid conditions, such as kitchen or bathroom cabinets, should be finished with a top coat.

Should I Use A Brush Or Roller To Seal Painted Furniture?

A brush will give you more control over the sealer, and it’s easier to get into tight spaces with a brush. However, a roller is faster and will give you a smoother finish.

Sealers should be applied in thin, even coats. Allow the first coat to dry completely before applying the second coat. If you are using a water-based sealer, you can usually apply the second coat after four hours. If you are using an oil-based sealer, you should wait 24 hours before applying the second coat.

When applying a clear coat to painted wood furniture, it is important to use thin, even coats and to allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next. You should also choose the right type of sealer based on whether your furniture is stained or painted.

Water-based sealers are usually best for painted surfaces, while oil-based sealers are typically better for stained pieces.

The Two Types of Clear Coats for Furniture

Top coating furniture is usually done using one of two types of topcoats: water-based or oil-based. Oil-based polyurethanes have been the main clear coat on furniture for a long time, however, more water-based formulations are now available. Here’s a quick overview of the advantages and disadvantages of each:

1. Water-Based Clear Coats

Previously, all transparent polyurethanes were oil-based, but you can now buy several water-based polyureas that are just as lasting! Minwax’s polycrylic is a water-based version of polyurethane and one of the best coats we tested.

Water-based transparent coats are simple to clean up and have little odor making them the best clear coat for furniture.

The primary drawback of water-based polyurethanes is that they are not as UV resistant, so if your painted wood items will be exposed to a lot of suns then you’ll need to select an oil-based varnish or paint instead. Additionally, these coats can’t be used over colored finishes.

2. Oil-Based Clear Coats

If you’re considering a water-based topcoat, then an oil-based best paint for painted wood is the best option to get protection from scratches and spills! Oil-based clear coats are easy to clean up with soap and water which makes them perfect for bathrooms or kitchens where moisture can frequently appear.

Oil-based best clear coat for painted wood is the best solution if you need to apply coats over stained furniture or colored finishes, however, they are more likely than water-based alternatives to yellow with age over time.

Additionally, these products have strong odors that can be bothersome indoors and require careful clean-up procedures due to their strong solvents. These best clear coats for painted wood are best applied with a brush and should not be thinned out before use because it’s always best to apply them as is (without diluting).

How to Seal Painted Furniture With a Water-Based Polyurethane Product?

The best way to protect your painted wood furniture is to apply a water-based polyurethane topcoat. These products are available in both aerosolized spray cans and brush-on formulations.

To apply a water-based best clear coat for painted wood, first, make sure that the piece is clean and dust free by wiping it down with a lint-free cloth. Once the surface is clean, you can apply the polyurethane using a natural bristle brush or a foam applicator.

For small projects, like end tables or coffee tables, I recommend using an aerosolized spray can because it’s easier to apply an even coat with less chance of drips or runs.

Once you’ve applied the first coat of polyurethane, allow it to dry for at least two hours before applying a second coat. After the second coat has dried, you can then buff the surface with a soft cloth to remove any brush marks or imperfections.

Qualities of Best Clear Wood Finishes For Indoor Painted Wood

There are several types of surface treatments and application methods available for different surfaces. Here’s a summary of the various indoor finish kinds according to their most important features:

A polyurethane or urethane finish is ideal. Cabinets, floors, trim, and furniture are all made of it.

The most common waterproofing material is epoxy (and it’s not very durable). When water and glasses are harsh on wood, bar tops are made of epoxy.
Indoor low-toxicity: Polycrylic or water-based polyurethane is often used to minimize the stench and chemicals.
Non-yellowing: one of the characteristics of polyurethane is its resistance to UV fading and yellowing, which is common with other polyurethane.

Tung oil is one of the most popular natural hair oils. It is used to treat damaged or color-treated hair that requires a nourishing treatment. Mineral oil, as well as a few other conditioners, are also used frequently.

Qualities of The Best Clear Coat for Painted Wood, For Outdoor Projects

Moving outdoors, you’ll find a variety of applications from direct water contact to finishes for indirect sun and water:

Waterproof

Any of the best clear coats we tested are waterproof.

Outdoor Grade

The coatings should offer a high-gloss finish and are UV resistant, so they won’t fade over time (and not yellow). Also check that your finishing product is compatible with plastic laminates and composites (like fiberglass), as well.

Non-Skid

We suggest that the ideal paint for outdoor furniture be resistant to water, oil, saltwater, sunlight, chemicals, etc. The best clear coats should have a glossy finish so they reflect the sun’s rays instead of absorbing them.

The 5 Best Clear Coats for Painted Wood On Amazon

1. Johnson’s Paste Wax

Key Features

An easy-to-use paste wax that can be used on any finished wood
Helps fill in the pores of the wood surface helping it resist dirt and moisture

A clear refined paste wax that is easy to use on all types of wood surfaces. Particularly great for furniture, cabinets, floors, doors, moldings, and trim.

Johnson’s Paste Wax is a favorite among professionals and DIYers alike. It can be used on painted wood projects to add shine, protect from stains, and prevent scratches. It can also be used on floors, smooth finished furniture, metal surfaces, marble, stone, etc.

Pros

A great product for adding some shine and protection to painted wood surfaces.
Best Clear Coat for Painted Wood, Outside
This product does have a strong chemical smell so you’ll want to use it in an area with good ventilation.

Cons

A little pricey for the amount of product you get

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2. Fiddes and Sons Supreme Clear Wax

Key Features

A non-toxic, all-natural wax
Provides long-lasting protection from moisture and dirt buildup

Fiddes Supreme Clear Wax is a non-toxic, all-natural wax. This product is great for wood surfaces such as cabinets and floors (including hardwood).
Supreme Clear Wax can be used on varnished, oiled, or lacquered surfaces
A traditional paste wax that can be used on any type of wood

Helps fill in pores and seals the surface to protect against dirt and moisture

Fiddes and Sons Supreme Paste Wax is made in the United Kingdom. It has a medium-brown color, which adds warmth to your wood. It contains carnauba wax, beeswax, and natural oils to nourish the surface of your wood while it protects against damage from dirt, moisture, and scratches.

Pros

This product is great for wood surfaces such as cabinets and floors (including hardwood)
A great product for adding some shine and protection to painted wood surfaces.
It is easy to apply with a lint-free cloth or brush which makes this an ideal product for beginners that want to get into finishing their projects at home.

The traditional wax is easy to apply with a lint-free cloth or brush, so it’s ideal for beginners who want to get into finishing their projects at home.

Cons

This product is not for use on floors, as it will leave a white stain behind if used in this manner

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3. Minwax Polycrylic

Key Features

A water-based, non-yellowing polyacrylic finish

Ideal for use on interior projects where a clear high gloss sheen is desired
Provides long-term protection against scratches, stains, and spills
A transparent, water-based finish that is resistant to most household spills

Minwax Polycrylic Protective Finish has a matte finish which is great for painted wood finishes. This product can be used on all interior and exterior surfaces such as: bare or previously finished wood, metal (including wrought iron), wicker, ceramic, fiberglass, and more.

It is available in satin finish for wood projects that will be exposed to high traffic and a gloss finish for general purpose projects.

Polycrylic Protective Finish is easy to apply and clean up with soap and water. It dries fast, so it’s also great for multitasking as you can recoat quickly without waiting too long between coats.

Pros

A clear wax that provides an additional layer of protection over the wood’s finish
A great product for adding some shine and protection to painted wood surfaces.

This is a non-toxic, all-natural wax so it is great for wood surfaces such as cabinets and floors (including hardwood).
This product can be used on all interior and exterior surfaces.
This product can be used on bare or previously finished wood, metal (including wrought iron), wicker, ceramic, fiberglass, and more.

Cons

Some online reviews suggest that this product is not as durable as other top clear coats
The wax is a little pricey for the amount of product you get

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4. Varathane’s Water-Based Top Coat

Key Features

Ideal for use on interior projects where a clear high gloss sheen is desired

Provides long-term protection against scratches, stains, and spills.
A water-based, non-yellowing finish that is resistant to most household spills
This clear coat is also resistant to most household chemicals

Dries fast and provides a durable, high gloss finish for painted wood surfaces.

Varathane Water Based Top Coat is a great product for protecting painted wood surfaces. This topcoat provides an additional layer of protection over the original paint job to protect against dirt, moisture, scratches, and more.

Varathane Water Based Top Coat can be used on interior or exterior projects such as cabinets, floors (including hardwood), furniture pieces, doors, and trim work.

Pros

It is easy to apply with
Non-toxic.

All-natural wax.
that has been approved by the EPA for use in and around the home.

Cons

Some reviews suggest that this product may not provide the long-lasting protection that some customers are looking for in a clear coat

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5. General Finishes High-Performance Water Based Topcoat, 1 Quart, Flat

Key Features

Ideal for use on interior projects where a clear high gloss sheen is desired
Provides long-term protection against scratches, stains, and spills
A water-based finish that is resistant to most household chemicals.

A water-based, non-yellowing finish that is resistant to most household spills
Provides long-term protection against scratches, stains, and spills
A clear topcoat that is resistant to most household chemicals.

General Finishes High-Performance Water Based Topcoat provides a durable, high-gloss finish. This topcoat is a great choice for interior projects including cabinets and furniture pieces, as well as exterior surfaces.

The non-toxic, water-based formula is ideal for protecting painted wood surfaces without adding extra chemicals to the home. It provides long-term protection against scratches and spills while leaving a clear finish that won’t yellow over time.

Pros

Easy to apply and clean up with soap and water.
All-natural, non-toxic formula.
Provides a durable high gloss finish for painted wood surfaces.

Cons

It can be difficult to clean up spills and drips

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6.1 gal Rust-Oleum Brands 250031 Clear Varathane, Diamond Water-Based Spar Urethane, Gloss

Key Features

UM, 250031 is a great product for protecting painted wood surfaces.
RUST-OLEUM 250031 can be used on interior or exterior projects

RUM 250031 is a great product for protecting painted wood surfaces.
The non-toxic, water-based formula

Product Description

This item is included in the Rust Oléum collection that protects painted wood on the outside. Several UV-absorbing chemicals are available to provide adequate protection against damage to a wooden structure caused by external forces. All surfaces, stains, and permanent scratches and stains cause immediate harm to your furniture.

The advantage of using a coat of paint is that it can protect your structures while also adding comfort and enjoyment to your home furnishings. Cleaning without the use of water is aided by the clear glossy finish. This wide coverage permits you to cover smaller pieces of wood without removing much paint. It does not affect the quality or appearance of your wood surfaces. It will be fully dry in 30 minutes after application.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible to paint over polyurethane without sanding?

Someone asked me how to refinish a piece of furniture that had been oil-based polyurethane coated. I would not try to refinish it. I would sand it down to the bare wood, clean it with a deglosser, and re-stain or paint it depending on what was there.

Is it possible to apply new paint over old polyurethane without sanding?

It is not recommended for you to simply cover up or paint over the old polyurethane. Polyurethane has a very high sheen, and it may not be possible to cover it with enamel-based paints without sanding between coats.

3. Do you have any suggestions for what to use as a top coat after using your favorite wax?

A lot of people ask me what they should use to top their wood projects off after using one of my favorite waxes. I recommend the best polyurethane for outdoor furniture, which you can read more about above in this article.

4. What is your preferred clear coat?

My preferred clear coats are any of the ones mentioned throughout this article that are water-based. I also recommend polyacrylic, but this will need to be reapplied every year or so.

5. What is the best clear coat for painted wood?

The best clear coats are any water-based products because they are more environmentally friendly and can be cleaned up with soap and water after use. This makes them a much safer option in my opinion.

6. Is it possible to paint over polyurethane without sanding?

I would not try to refinish it. I would sand it down to the bare wood, clean it with a deglosser, and re-stain or paint it depending on what was there.

7. Do you have any suggestions for what to use as a top coat after using your favorite wax?

My preferred clear coats are any of the ones mentioned throughout the article that are water-based. I also recommend polyacrylic, but this will need to be reapplied every year or so.

8. What is the Best Clear Coat for Kitchen Cabinets?

9. Should I Use a Spray Clear Coat for Wood?

Sprays are popular choices for furniture because they appear to be very handy, and if you’re making a craft item, they are. Despite their popularity as a furniture option, sprays are generally ill-advised since they tend to leave stripes on your piece of furniture. I promise you’ll look better with brush-on top coats! (If you’re not sure why just check out the article above!)

10. After Staining Wood, Do You Have to Seal It?

Yes, you have to seal the wood before applying any top coat. The best way is with a water-based finish after staining. Any varnish must be oil-based and will require sanding between coats.

11. What Is the Best Clear Coat for Kitchen Cabinets?

The polyurethane mentioned above would also work for kitchen cabinets.

12. What Is the Best Clear Coat for Wood Floors?

Conclusion

The best clear coats are water-based for a variety of reasons. They clean up easier, they’re more environmentally friendly, and can be used on outdoor wood furniture as well! The most popular topcoat is polyacrylic due to its ease of application and low price point. However, any two of the five listed above will do just fine in terms of protecting the wood.

Reference: WikiHow