Q&A for How to Apply Polyurethane

Water-based poly is colorless. Oil-based poly turns amber over time. You can stain or paint the wood before applying the poly.

Use wood filler. Use a spatula for application. Allow the filler to completely dry, then sand it down for an even surface.

Sand very lightly using a fine grit sand paper. You only want to "rough up" the surface of the previous coat to give the next coat better adhesion.

Yes, a paint pad should work fine.

Water-based poly remains clear, but oil-based poly does turn an amber shade over time.

Yes, as along as the paint is dry.

Using two coats is typically advisable because this provides better protection and a more even finish.

I wouldn't recommend it. Polyurethane tends to become rather sticky when drying in sun light, leading it to collect any particles blowing around. Apply it in a well ventilated area inside without direct contact from the sun, and leave it to dry naturally, rather then trying to speed up the process.

Yes, you can use a sander. A hand sander is best, but avoid using too much pressure. Aall you want to do is scuff up the surface before re-applying.

Sanding between coats is to make the new poly coat adhere better to the previous one for protection, not merely to make a clean, even look.

If you want to enhance the look of the wood, then yes. If you are okay with how it looks already, then no.

Yes, poly-wipe is just a thinner solution of regular poly.

Use a lint-free cloth such as an old, white T-shirt. Fold up the cloth to get a smooth 3-inch edge. Dip the cloth in the poly, let it soak in for few seconds and apply. It is better to apply a few thin coats over a few days, sanding lightly between coats, rather than one thick coat, which could cause an uneven look.

Generally you get what you pay for. Ronseal is a good affordable brand, with products like TekDur to be well worth the extra few pounds.

Stir it gently, don't shake the can, apply light coats, use a high-quality brush, use gentle brush strokes and go with the grain.

Yes, you can. Just make sure the paint is fully dried prior to applying the polyurethane.

Yes. This is, in fact, the best option for using any polyurethane varnish. Make sure you sand the sealer back using nothing less then 120 grit, so no white shows in the grain.

Yes, you can. It's even easier without stain because you don't have to worry about sanding it off by mistake.

Don’t do it. It will just peel and chip. See the other Q and A about using a fine grit sandpaper to make each coat of poly adhere well.

Yes, as long as the area is well ventilated, out of direct sunlight, and clean of any debris that may get blown into the drying poly and affect your final result.

You can. For this application, you will want to wipe the poly onto the surface. If the poly is water-based, rinse your lint-free rag in water prior to applying. If it is oil-based, dip the rag in mineral spirits.

Give it a gentle go with some fine sandpaper -- 320 grit or even 240 will do. Just be very gentle and make sure you sand evenly; otherwise, patches will appear.

Yes, it works nicely. The stain must be completely dry before adding the polyurethane.

There is no specific temperature but keep the object you are working on in a ventilated area out of direct contact with the sun.