FUXI ® Polyurethane Paint

How to Apply Polyurethane over Paint

If you want to protect the paint surface and improve its decoration function, you should consider applying two or more layers on the surface. This will increase surface resistance and strength.

Remember, you can apply polyurethane on any paint except for alkyd. All you have to do is to let the paint dry normally (if applied recently), clean the surface, and be ready to use it.

Step 1: Clean the surface

If the surface is painted for a long time, it should be properly cleaned first. Cleaning can remove grease, stains, dirt and all types of dirt, which is essential for keeping the surface clean.

Use a soft sponge and strong detergent to clean the area. Alternatively, you can mix half a cup of trisodium phosphate in warm water to clean the surface. Trisodium phosphate is known for its cleaning ability, and most painters use it to clean painted surfaces.

Step 2: Remove wear

After cleaning, let the painted surface dry completely. This usually takes 24 to 72 hours. After drying, sand the surface with 120 grit sandpaper. This will prevent the formation of any deep scratches and smooth the surface.

If you don't polish the surface, you will find that the surface is not smooth after applying polyurethane, and there may be deep scratches underneath.

You can choose to sand the surface by hand or with a palm sander. After finishing, wipe the dust with a damp cloth.

Step 3: Choose your applicator

I know I said to choose solvent-based or water-based polyurethane, but if you have not yet decided on the type of polyurethane you want to use, then you need to make a decision here.

After you have to choose the type of polyurethane, the next step is to choose your application method. Avoid using a roller to apply polyurethane because it will leave air bubbles. For the best application, you should use a brush or spray it.

Brushing works best when working on a flat surface that requires a firm or thick film. Spraying is best for hard-to-reach surfaces. However, the film is not as strong or thick as when you brush the surface.

You can also apply polyurethane by wiping. This method is most suitable for contoured surfaces such as crown molding.

This method forms a thinner coating. Make sure that the surface you want to use this method is not easy to wear.

Step 4: Apply the first coat

After applying the first layer, let it dry for a while. After it is completely dry, start to wipe the surface with sandpaper to remove all dust particles to obtain a smooth surface.

Step 5: Apply the second layer

Once the first layer is dry, it is time to apply a second coat. In most cases, you do not need to apply more than two coats. After applying the second layer, let it dry for at least 24 hours.

How to Make Polyurethane Dry Faster

1. Use water-based polyurethane paint

2. Keep the operating temperature between 26 degrees Celsius and 35 degrees Celsius. Polyurethane paint dries better at this temperature because it is neither too high nor too low.

Maintain proper airflow. When applying polyurethane, ventilation is essential.