How Many Coats of Polyurethane is Right?

Knowing how many coats of Polyurethane are suitable can mostly be tricky. It all depends on the kind of surface you are working on. 

Here’s what I learned:

How Many Coats of Polyurethane?

To protect the surface and achieve the best result in most cases, applying a minimum of two coats of Polyurethane when working on different surfaces such as furniture, floors, and other related surfaces is best. There may be a need to apply three or more coats of Polyurethane if you’re using water-based Polyurethane or your surface is an exterior one. 

In this article, you will find out more on different how many coats of Polyurethane is right for different surfaces or different top. It will also reveal everything you should know about applying Polyurethane. 

So, just keep reading!

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Surface	Oil-based Polyurethane	Water-based Polyurethane
Floors	3 coats	4-5 coats
Cabinets	2-3 coats	3-4 coats
Outdoor	3 coats	4-5 coats
Furniture	2-3 coats	3-5 coats
Stairs	2-3 coats	3-4 coats
Window trim	2 coats	2-3 coats
Bar Top	2 coats	2-3 coats
Dresser	2-3 coats	3-4 coats
Butcher Block	3-4 coats	4-5 coats
Guitar	2 coats	2-3 coats
Pine walls	3 coats	4-5 coats
Bookcase	2-3 coats	4-5 coats
Ceiling	3 coats	4-5 coats
Drawers	2 coats	3 coats
Coasters	3 coats	5 coats
Concrete	4 coats	5 coats
Decoupage	2 coats	2-3 coats
Gunstock	3 coats	4-5 coats
Headboard	2-3 coats	3-5 coats
Handrail	3 coats	4-5 coats
Mantel	2-3 coats	3-4 coats
Wood Chairs	2-3 coats	3-5 coats

Which is better—water-based or oil-based Polyurethane?

Both types of Polyurethane serve different purposes depending on what you want as the outcome. Water-based Polyurethane is an excellent option for people who do not fan strong odors. It is friendlier to the environment and does not release higher VOC levels. Apart from being the choice for the environment, it poses a lesser health risk.

On the other hand, oil-based has a strong smell and resists damage. If properly cured, it is not subjected to any influence. Oil-based leave thicker layers that can influence how many coats you will add. Oil-based Polyurethane may not be the go-to choice for you if you want to deliver a fast project. It also releases higher VOCs, making it unsuitable or an enclosed area.

Water-based Polyurethane pros and cons

Pros

• Environmental-friendly
• Dries faster 
• It is less likely to drip 

Cons

• Can cause slight raises in wood grain 
• Require extra coating in most cases 
• Not durable

Oil-based Polyurethane pros and cons

Pros

• High resistance to damage 
• Resistant to all influence
• Add warmth to wood surfaces

Cons

• It takes a longer time to dry and is not the best choice for a fast project
• Higher level of VOCs
• Not suitable for use in an enclosed area

Applying Polyurethane finish for durable, smooth, beautiful

Applying a polyurethane topcoat will give a durable and attractive surface. You should use a brush as a priority. However, you can also use wipe-on formulas, applying a rag, including a finish in aerosol cans. Use a few and appreciate finish to prevent wear and tear for better protection. 

How many coats of Polyurethane for a shine?

To have the desired shine, you will need to apply 3 to 4 coats of oil-based Polyurethane, especially if you crave a high gloss finish. However, you may consider applying the fifth coat depending on how shinier you want your surface to be. If the surface also runs and drips while applying it, you may need more. 

Are 2 or 4 coats of Polyurethane enough?

Two layers of Polyurethane are sufficient to keep most material surfaces (e.g., wood) free from contaminants and moisture. If you consider reinforcing it to resist extra damage, you should consider adding about three to four more coats of Polyurethane to make it suffice. 

Four coats of Polyurethane may not be too much, depending on the surface. In most cases, you may only need three coats of oil-based Polyurethane. If you are using water-based Polyurethane, you may consider using four or five coats of Polyurethane. This applies to surfaces such as hardwood since they are exposed to a lot of moisture or traffic. 

How do you apply a second coat of Polyurethane?

If you are applying the second coat of Polyurethane, it must be of full strength. However, it would be best never to forget to sand between each coat. Make sure to brush along the grain when you apply Polyurethane. Also, make sure to let the Polyurethane extend into as thin a coat as possible. Leave it to dry for one to two days before you sand it. 

How do you smooth the final coat of Polyurethane?

Smoothening the final coat of Polyurethane requires you to sand lightly using 240-320 grit sandpaper between coats. Leave the coat to dry for a minimum of a full day. This will make the work look more standard. You should never forget that sanding bare wood beforehand helps create a smooth look. 

How to apply water-based Polyurethane?

Tools:

• Cloth
• Pad
• Brush foam
• Sandpaper

Steps:

• Roughen up surface: Roughen up any stained surface before applying water-based Polyurethane.
• Applying Polyurethane: If you apply water-based Polyurethane to your surface, you should use a cloth, pad, or brush foam. Ensure you are working with grain for the prevention of too many applications of Polyurethane as it can cause the grain to rise 
• Let to dry: Wait for a few hours for the first coat to dry. 
• Sand: There may be a need to sand between coats just as it is with oil-based Polyurethane.
• Repeat: Proceed to apply the second coat 

If you are working on projects that you use occasionally, you may need to plan on a minimum of three coats of water-based Polyurethane.

If you are working on floors or any other related surfaces that need high protection level, there may be a need for you to use a minimum of four coats. 

How to apply oil-based Polyurethane?

Tools:

• Cloth
• Pad
• Brush foam
• Sandpaper

Steps:

• Sanding: Start by sanding the surface you want to work on while ensuring smoothness.
• Clean surface: Get a cloth or suitable cleaner to clean or vacuum the dust from the surface.
• Seal: Seal the surface using any suitable mineral by mixing it with a few amounts of Polyurethane and brushing it on the surface
• Apply Polyurethane: Apply the first coat of your oil-based Polyurethane.
• Sand after dry: Allow the first coat to dry and sand the entire surface repeatedly.
• Repeat: Apply the or more coats of oil-based Polyurethane again
• Clean again: Get a nice piece of cloth or other suitable cleaners to clean the surface once it dries.
• Polish the surface: Use a recommended polishing compound to polish the surface.

How long should you wait between coats of Polyurethane?

Water-based Polyurethane: 2 to 6 hours

Oil-based Polyurethane: 24 hours

Generally, you can wait for 2 to 6 hours to apply the next coat of Polyurethane if you’re working with water-based Polyurethane. If you’re working with oil-based Polyurethane, you may have to wait for about 24 hours before you apply the next coat of Polyurethane.

How can you make Polyurethane dry faster?

You can make Polyurethane dry faster by ensuring you are in a properly ventilated area. Ensure your windows and doors are opened if you work in an enclosed place. If possible, get a fan to help enhance air circulation in the work area. Once you do this, the evaporation process will be faster. 

How to remove brush marks from a polyurethane finish?

Tools:

• Cloth
• Sandpaper

Steps:

• Sand: Use recommended sandpaper to sand down the better marks. It would be best if you tried to exert as much pressure on the surface during the sanding process
• Clean: Use a fine piece of cloth to brush off the parts you have sanded, as this helps get rid of spec of dirt and grit on the surface. Over left particles can get under the finish and soil the whole project.
• Apply Polyurethane: Get a brush to lightly apply the oil-based Polyurethane without forgetting to wipe off an extra
• Apply finish: Apply the finish with care to the sanded surface using a few brushstrokes as you can. 
• Check and repeat: Ensure to carefully inspect the dried area to see any brush marks. Should you find any, you will need to re-sand the surface again.

What happens if you don’t sand between coats of Polyurethane?

The truth is, nothing will happen if you don’t sand between coats of Polyurethane. However, the result may be far from expected with a specific type of Polyurethane. This may lead to improper adhesion, skipping sanding dust nibs, and brush marks on the finish. With time, it may lead to the peeling of the Polyurethane. 

Can I put a second coat of Polyurethane on without sanding?

Yes, you may apply Polyurethane even when you have not sanded the surface, But it is not recommended to do so. If you are doing this on a wood project, you can expect a satisfactory result, which helps you save the cost of purchasing sandpapers and even the time and energy required for the sanding process. Apply it using a nice foam brush. 

Use 320-grit sandpaper When sanding between coats

It is better to use 320-grit sandpaper when sanding between coats of Polyurethane. You must ensure that each coat is thoroughly dried before sanding it. This helps to create better adhesion. Sand the first coat properly to help create a better and smooth surface. 

Tips for spray and wipe-on Polyurethanes

• Lay it on thin: This is a tip you can apply to both wipe-on Polyurethane and brushing on Polyurethane. However, you can apply this tip in two ways. The first is to dilute the Polyurethane itself. Secondly, you apply skinny coats. 
• Cleaning with a rag is essential: You should use a neat piece of rage for cleaning. You will be handling Polyurethane directly. Hence, the reason you should put on latex gloves. Drips are sure to happen. You should discard used cloth properly for a safer environment
• Remove dust: Get a clean piece of neat rag or cloth to wipe and clean the surface once you are through with scuffing. Make sure the cloth is slightly wet to get rid of dust particles off the surface.

How many coats of Polyurethane for different items?

hardwood floors

Oil-based Polyurethane: 3 coats

Water-based Polyurethane: 4-5 coats

If you’re using water-based Polyurethane on your high traffic hardwood floor, applying four to five coats is best. For oil-based Polyurethane, you may not require more than three coats of Polyurethane. Since the hardwood area is high traffic, there’s a need to protect them for a more extended period by adding a thick and nice layer of Polyurethane. 

Before and after a sand! Now ready for a coat of solvent polyurethane… ✨✨✨#flooring #floor #floorsanding #floorsander #sandandpolish #coating #sanding #tasoak #tasmanianoak #sandandcoat #design #home #renovation #timber #timberfloor #hardwood #hardwoodflooring #oakflooring pic.twitter.com/1EAczgWBeF

— Creative Flooring Solutions (@CFSGeelong) May 28, 2018

wood furniture

Oil-based Polyurethane: 2-3 coats

Water-based Polyurethane: 4-5 coats

When using Polyurethane on wooden furniture, it is recommended to have at least two layers for best results. If you will always be using your furniture moat times, it is best to add an extra coat to make it three, especially for an oil-based coat. Extending the coat to four or five for more prolonged use for a water-based coat is essential. 

kitchen cabinets top and legs

Oil-based Polyurethane: 2 coats

Water-based Polyurethane: 3 coats

It is worth applying a minimum of two coats of Polyurethane for most kitchen cabinets, top and legs. Applying the first coat helps to seal and prime it, while the second works as a finish coat. If you are using water-based Polyurethane, you should consider adding the third one due to its ability to fade or wear quickly. 

outdoor furniture

Oil-based Polyurethane: 3 coats

Water-based Polyurethane: 4-5 coats

A minimum of three coats of Polyurethane is the most suitable for outdoor furniture in sun. When applying Polyurethane to outdoor furniture, it is best to use a natural bristle brush. Anything short of three coats of Polyurethane on your outside furniture may lead to risking the protection due to natural damages and may lead to rot or color fading. 

oak stairs treads

Oil-based Polyurethane: 2-3 coats

Water-based Polyurethane: 3-4 coats

Depending on the wood type, adding two to three coats of Polyurethane to your oak stairs treads is usually enough. It would help if you never forgot that the more you add coats of Polyurethane, the longer it takes to dry. On the other hand, it can add an amber glow to the wood. 

trim

Oil-based Polyurethane: 2 coats

Water-based Polyurethane: 2-3 coats

It is best to go for two or more coats for trims, especially if you are using polyurethane finishes such as clear satin. Most of the products come with instruction of two to three coats. However, if you want a different result from the recommended coat, you may add more to the trim. 

dresser

Oil-based Polyurethane: 2-3 coats

Water-based Polyurethane: 3 coats

To achieve a better result, you can add a minimum of two coats of Polyurethane to your dresser. If you are using your dresser outside your home, you may consider adding more coats of Polyurethane. The more the coat you apply to your dresser, the smoother it becomes. 

butcher block

Oil-based Polyurethane: 3 coats

Water-based Polyurethane: 4-5 coats

If you use a Polyurethane coat on the butcher block, the best coat to go for is three. In some cases, you may add more coats of Polyurethane on the butcher block for a better look. This mostly happens whenever you apply an oil-based finish on your butcher block. 

guitar

Oil-based Polyurethane: 2 coats

Water-based Polyurethane: 2-3 coats

The minimum coat of Polyurethane to put on the guitar is a minimum of two. However, many do not usually put Polyurethane on their guitar. However, it is recommended that people read instructions on the product they are buying to understand. Usually, most coat of Polyurethane looks good with a minimum of two perfect coats. 

pine walls

Oil-based Polyurethane: 3 coats

Water-based Polyurethane: 4-5 coats

The best coats of Polyurethane on a pine wall are usually three. However, in some cases, four coats of Polyurethane may be fine too and can sometimes come with problems. Always remember that the more coats you add, the more time it takes to dry. The chances are high that it will sometimes look fine and turn yellow. 

bookcase

Oil-based Polyurethane: 2-3 coats

Water-based Polyurethane: 3-4 coats

For maximum protection of the book self, you may consider nothing less than three coats of Polyurethane. This is because bookcase surfaces need more protection. It is best to use oil-based Polyurethane since it provides more durability and develops ambient tint as time goes on. 

Bruce Dundee

Oil-based Polyurethane: 3 coats

Water-based Polyurethane: 4-5 coats

You should apply a minimum of three coats of Polyurethane on Bruce Dundee. This helps it to become shinier since it is a hardwood floor. However, if you crave to have a perfect look, you may consider going beyond three coats. 

chalk paint

Oil-based Polyurethane: 2 coats

Water-based Polyurethane: 3 coats

Applying two or three coats of Polyurethane to the chalk paint is best to get a perfect look for your work. With much chalk paint, you can have more outstanding coverage. For instance, painting a white or dark surface may require two or more coats to achieve perfection.

coasters

Oil-based Polyurethane: 3 coats

Water-based Polyurethane: 5 coats

It is usually best to use about five to six coats for a perfect look for most coater projects. You can apply Polyurethane to your canister using a foam roller or brush. Depending on your choice, you may need to add more coats to achieve a better look. 

concrete

Oil-based Polyurethane: 4 coats

Water-based Polyurethane: 5 coats

A minimum of four coats of Polyurethane on concrete should do. The critical thing to remember is that every coat you apply becomes shinier. You may add more if you crave an additional shiny look. Polyurethane is usually available in different finishes such as satin, gloss, semi-gloss, and more. 

decoupage

Oil-based Polyurethane: 2 coats

Water-based Polyurethane: 3 coats

A minimum of three coats of Polyurethane is necessary for decoupage. If you crave a coat, you may add more coats depending on your patience, time, or taste. The more you add an extra coat on the decoupage, the more it becomes embedded into the surface. 

gunstock

Oil-based Polyurethane: 3 coats

Water-based Polyurethane: 4-5 coats

Rifle stocks should be okay with four coats of Polyurethane. However, you may achieve a better look if you add more coats. It is essential to know that once the first coat becomes dry, apply the wiping varnish using a cleaner with 400 or 600 grit. 

headboard

Oil-based Polyurethane: 2-3 coats

Water-based Polyurethane: 3-5 coats

Two coats of Polyurethane will provide headboards with the required amount of protection from contaminants and moisture. If you want extra protection against liquids such as water, you may consider adding three to four coats of Polyurethane.

Just added a coat of satin polyurethane to the headboard, it’s coming along nicely #progress pic.twitter.com/q27vzqTBPi

— Squintin Tarantin⭕️ (@DividedShane) July 27, 2018

mantel

Oil-based Polyurethane: 2-3 coats

Water-based Polyurethane: 3-4 coats

The appropriate Polyurethane on the mantel should be three coats. This is because the mantel surface may not be likely to receive much wear. You may need to put on the fourth coat if you want a thicker coat. 

painted furniture

Oil-based Polyurethane: 2-3 coats

Water-based Polyurethane: 3-4 coats

A minimum of two to three coats of Polyurethane will be enough on painted furniture. It adds a higher level of durability to painted furniture. As a result, if you want to carry out a deep cleaning task or apply it to a piece of painted furniture, it is best to use the coat as mentioned above.

Did I cover all you wanted to know: how many coats of Polyurethane are suitable?

Applying the wrong amount of polyurethane coats may have a dent on your surface, which may lead to disfiguring it and be a waste of resources. However, knowing and choosing the right amount of polyurethane coat will beautify your surface and protect it in the long run. 

Now that you are familiar with how many coats of Polyurethane are appropriate, you don’t have to worry anymore whenever you want to work on any surface of your choice. However, you may add or subtract to the proper Polyurethane when working on your surface, depending on your needs.