Water Based Polyurethane Over Oil Based Varnish

With a little bit of extra time and preparation you can apply the oil based finish right over the water.

Water based polyurethane over oil based varnish. Water based poly can have adhesion problems when applied over an oil based stain thats not thoroughly cured. A great finish to try is zar brand ultra max a waterborne oil modified polyurethane. From time to time here on the avf well have to reapply a finish on a piece. You should never put a water based finish on top of an oil based finish.

However oil based varnishes typically have a natural amber tint and often become more yellow over time. Some still insist that durability is the main deciding factor between water based oil based polyurethane. Durability of water based vs oil based polyurethane. Oil and water dont mix.

Theres an ongoing debate over which is more durable long lasting. And when that involves changing from a water based to an oil based finish it can require a little extra effort. This is because the curing process for oil is polymerisation and polymerised oil is akin to resin. If you already laid down a water based finish and decided to go for an oil based one do not fret.

If you wait for the oil based stain to properly dry cure its no longer oily. Some of these water based finishes are not for use over lacquer or shellac. If you love the natural look of maple apply a water based waterborne polyurethane. Its actually the most durable hardwood floor finish.

Both water based and oil based poly offer good protection. Thats why you should always apply a barrier coat of dewaxed shellac to seal oil based stain. Oil and water are famous for repelling one another and not mixing. When using an oil based topcoat over a water based stain or milk paint allow water based finishes such as hp topcoat to dry at least 24 hours before coating with an oil based product.

Oil based used to be unquestionably more durable. Luckily there are ways around this when it comes to applying finishes. After the shellac dries a light scuff sand will leave an excellent surface for the poly to grip. Jim carroll explains why its not only acceptable to use a water based finish over and oil finish provided you do it correctly but that it can be the best solution when you want to bring out the natural character and color of the wood.

The biggest difference is in appearance. Spray lacquer is commonly used on new furniture and in new construction. This can distort the colors of the item you have painted.