Is it necessary to use a polyurethane sealer on top of my painted table?

Question

The lady at Home Depot told me I might not need to seal it, that the paint would be enough. I bought a line from Behr called Kitchen and Bath which supposedly gives a stronger finish? What do you guys think????????

Answer 1

After applying thousands of gallons of paint, and realizing the customer is always "right" even when they aren't, I'd never advise painting any surface that comes in contact with food.

That said however, certainly the Poly would keep the painetd surface intact longer than without.

Assume the amount of use, and wear a table or counter top endure in the processes.

I happen to think Behr is an excellent product, but still wouldn't use it on any surface that might contact with food, without sealing it.

Rev. Steven

Answer 2

Hi,

First, for all painting related questions you should contact a "Professional" paint store like Sherman Williams or Benjamin Moore etc.

the people who work there deal with paint and painters questions specifically and will be happy to help you.

The folks at home improvement warehouse stores like Lowe's and Home Depot although well meaning don't really know all there is to know about the specific trades.

Now to answer your question.

Polyurethane sealer is primarily used to seal bare wood, not to use over latex paint.

Assuming the table was already painted and/or finished in some way and you are just Re-painting it...

If this is the case the paint you have should be fine. be sure to prep the surface well. Give a light sanding and use a rag to wipe off all the dust.

Prime any areas where bare wood is showing through. Then apply the paint with a thin even coat. (most paint jobs require (2) coats to cover evenly)

Let paint dry completely between coats.

If you want a really shiny finished look you may want to use oil based paint or a high gloss latex.

If the table is raw bare wood and you want to paint it, make sure you prime the entire thing first.

I hope this helps.

Andy

Answer 3

It may well be in your brushing technique, and in the brush that you are using. First - purchase a brush intended for use with polyurethane or stain. This brush will NOT be cheap, however, for a few dollars more, you have a brush that could last you a lifetime with proper care. Second, ALWAYS maintain whats called a "wet" brush when applying the poly. Don't scrimp...brush from the "wet" poly you just applied to the unfinished area. Keep plenty of poly on the brush. Don't allow it to "drag" (if it drags, it's too dry). Honestly I'd use a high-gloss oil based polyuethane, it'll take the pounding that tables take much better than the water based products. Allow each coat to dry per the manufacturer's instructions on the poly can, lightly sand with #000 steel wool between coats - this will remove slight bumps, bubbles, etc. Face it - it's NOT going to be perfect but if you follow the above directions, it will look very good.

Answer 4

Frankly I cringe at the thought of painting a wood table instead of staining it.That being said a high quality paint has the same qualities as polyurethane. Behr is one of the best paints on the market so it should give as much protection as polyurethane. You can put the sealer on if you want to but it is a little bit of overkill.

Answer 5

I'd say seal it. I always regret it when I don't.. If you're wanting a weathered look, on the other hand.. leave it be. I guess it's personal preference.. I know that the polyurethane will give it a glossy look.. if you're not wanting that.. then don't treat it.. if the gloss doesn't bother you.. then I'd seal it and protect the coat of paint..

And always remember..
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.. :D

Answer 6

Depends on what kind of table you are painting. If it is a table you expect to take a lot of wear.. I would recommend using a polyurethane finish.. If you are trying to skip this step since it is time consuming.. you can purchase polyurethane in a spray can and just spray the finish on to protect your investment. I have used the spray to protect the wooden trim I put around a new tub surround.. It works Great.

Answer 7

if the paint is for kitchen and bath that must mean it has a certain amount of poly already in it, and that it will stand up to moisture. it depends on what the table is used for. if it is your dining table i recommend putting several coats of clear laquer or polyurethane just on the top. this will give years of durability. just a little tip for you though...even if the clear coats seem to be dry don't put anything on the top that is heavy or stationary for a couple of weeks until it completely cures. it will leave an impression.

Answer 8

I would use a coat or two of polyurethane. The paint will chip after repeated use and the table itself may become dented and scratched if not protected.

Answer 9

Unless you want the paint to get that worn shabby chic look that has been so popular, you should seal it. The rubbing of the dishes on the paint will wear it down.

Answer 10

Seal it for sure or the paint will be scratching off in weeks (if not days).