I have refinished an old Typewriter Desk. I'm using it as a computer desk. I have already stained it and now am ready to put polyurethane on it to protect it. In the past I have done this and had trouble with the polyurethane having bubbles in it. How should I apply polyurethane so I will not have that problem again. Thanks.
2006-11-14 08:28:14 · 8 answers · asked by jcn_z71 1 in Home & Garden ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
use a brush with bristles, not sponges. apply an even coat SLOWLY, let dry, sand and re-apply.
that's what works for me. the brushes with sponges make me crazy!
2006-11-14 08:34:58 · answer #1 · answered by korikill 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋
If I were you, I would consider a water based poly rather than polyurethane. There is a big difference in ease of use and odor. The end result is very similar.
I assume you want a high gloss result, so get glossy. Make sure the surface has been wiped to remove dust. Don't stir or shake your poly, use right from the can. Use a foam brush and stoke on in one direction. DO NOT restroke over the top of the finish. Allow the finish to dry and use Scotchbrite (fine) to go over the surface and remove the bumps. Wipe down again to remove the dust and repeat until you have the thickness and gloss that you want.
2006-11-14 17:50:42 · answer #2 · answered by united9198 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
First off.....make sure you buy a "good" brand of Poly. Next... the brush....make sure it is "high" quality. Ask the guy at Home Depot to recommend a brush. Not all brushes are made for poly. Apply the finish in even stokes, all in the same direction. When the first coat dries, it will cause the wood fibers to "stand up". Get some real fine sand paper and "wet sand" the surface. The sandpaper will be black and is made for "wet sanding". Let the surface dry sufficiently. Repeat that procedure till you achieve the smooth finish you desire. I used to refinish furniture in my basement. One time I refinished a complete dinning room table, 8 chairs and a hutch!!!! Never again!!! Good luck!!!!
2006-11-14 16:56:19 · answer #3 · answered by bugear001 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Be careful in stirring the poly before application. Don't shake, as this introduces air bubbles. Stir only.
Try applying after the stain is dry, and try a foam brush. They're cheap and disposable, and lay the poly down smoothly w/o brush strokes. Be sure to let it dry completely and then use 0000 steel wool or 400 grit wet/dry paper to lightly sand, clean the surface w/ a tac cloth or cloth dampened w/ thinner, and add a second coat. Repeat the dry/sand bsns and add a 3rd coat. The poly will give you a hard, durable finish.
2006-11-14 18:45:00 · answer #4 · answered by pamikemy 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I can't be sure but I think the bubbles were caused because you shook the can to mix it. Try stirring instead of shaking. Apply some to a scrap piece of wood to see if this works for you. Also use a brush recommended for applying Polyurethane.
Good luck.
2006-11-14 19:51:29 · answer #5 · answered by Donald S 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
When you open the can, don't shake it, us a stick and slowly fold the poly like a cake batter. Don't mix.
Get a good brush from Ace Hardware, they can show you a good one. When you brush it on go slowly and, if there's bubbles, use a sponge brush and lightly go over it. I use the new water based poly. It not cheap but it's easier to use and clean up better.
2006-11-14 16:55:00 · answer #6 · answered by cowboydoc 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I refinished many pieces of furniture... but I used an automotive spray gun with an air compressor...goes really fast! If you know anyone who has this equip you will like the finish alot better than brushing!
2006-11-14 17:51:03 · answer #7 · answered by jazcomania 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
done this many times....like many said... DONT MIX IT shake it or stir it! use a GOODquality and for the specific use, brush...put one coat thin then dry and then finely SAND it over...the rougher edges... then put a second coat
2006-11-14 18:03:45 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋