I Tested And Reviewed 10 Best Applicator For Water Based Polyurethane (2023)

I recently had the opportunity to try out the MinWax Helmsman Spar Urethane, and I must say, it exceeded my expectations. The delivery head of this urethane spray is excellent, providing a smooth and controlled spray with a fan-like shape. This makes it incredibly easy to work with and ensures even passes of urethane coating.

One of the standout features of this product is its quick drying time. The thin coats dry fast, allowing you to apply multiple coats within a short period. In fact, I was able to complete three coats in just 1.5 hours, which is remarkable. This means you can finish your project in one session, saving you time and effort.

I was particularly impressed with the finish this urethane provided. It resulted in an exceptionally even satin finish that added a touch of elegance to my project. The durability of the coating is also worth noting, as it effectively weatherproofed the painted surface, eliminating any worries of peeling paint.

However, it is important to mention that this product does generate a significant amount of fumes and light air-bound micro particles. Therefore, it is crucial to apply it in a well-ventilated space to ensure your safety.

In terms of value for money, I found that purchasing this urethane on Amazon was more cost-effective compared to local stores. It was also competitively priced compared to similar products at Home Depot. So, if you're looking for a high-quality urethane at a reasonable price, this one is definitely worth considering.

I recently tried the water-borne finish for my woodworking project and I must say, I am highly impressed. After watching informative YouTube videos and spraying it with an HVLP unit, I decided to give this product a try. One of the first things I noticed was that it required no thinning for an HVLP sprayer, which made the application process much easier. The fact that it was mentioned on the can itself added to my confidence in the product.

I sprayed the finish inside my garage with the doors open and took precautions by using canvas drop clothes to protect my tools and floor. One of the standout features of this product is its quick drying time, which prevented any unwanted dust, fuzz, or gnats from landing on the surface. The first light coat dried in under two hours, allowing me to proceed with a quick light sanding using 220 grit paper before applying the second coat. Two more hours later, I sanded with 400 grit and then applied the third coat. The final finish exceeded my expectations, providing a gentle satin finish that perfectly complemented the rustic look I was aiming for.

Clean-up between coats was a breeze. I simply sprayed a full canister of hot water outside on the driveway to clear the nozzle and all the internal parts of the sprayer. For the final clean-up, warm soapy water in the sink was sufficient. Unlike solvent-based finishes, this water-borne product has very little lingering odor as the solvents evaporate. This meant I could bring the finished piece inside on the same day without worrying about any strong odors.

Having previously used other brands such as Deft Clear Wood Finish, I can confidently say that I will continue using this water-borne product for future projects. The ease of application, no need for thinning when spraying, and effortless clean-up make it a standout choice. While it did take a bit of trial and error to find the optimal spray amount, once I found the right setting, the application process went extremely well.

In the past, I have also tried other brands of satin water-based topcoats such as Minwax and General finishes. However, I found that both of these products had a shine that was too glossy for my liking. This issue led me to experiment by cutting the finish with water, which did help to dull the shine slightly. However, I encountered difficulties when spraying with my guns as the finish tended to run on the project surface. I once tried Deft lacquer finish and was amazed by the results, but the strong odor and flammability made it less than ideal for my needs.

During my search for an alternative, I came across this water-borne finish on Amazon and decided to give it a try. Let me tell you, it is an absolute gem! Even when applied with a brush, it outperforms the spray quality of Minwax. When I sprayed it, I couldn't resist touching the surface once it had dried. The sheen is exactly what I was looking for – a true satin finish. It dries clear, and the tools and brushes used are easy to clean. The application process is smooth and even, resulting in a professional-looking finish.

I highly recommend this product to anyone in search of a water-borne finish that delivers exceptional results. If you follow the instructions and application techniques correctly, I am confident that you will be as satisfied as I am.

As an experienced woodworker with over 50 years of experience, I have used various types and brands of finishing materials. Recently, I had the opportunity to try out water-based urethanes from two different brands: General Finishes and Rust-oleum Ultimate Soft Touch.

Starting with General Finishes, I must say that I was disappointed with the results. While it may be suitable for wooden decks and stairs, it did not meet my expectations for furniture or fancy woodwork projects. The drying time was too fast, which prevented the finish from leveling out properly and resulted in noticeable applicator marks in the cured finish. Therefore, I would not recommend this product for those looking for a flawless finish on their furniture.

On the other hand, my experience with Rust-oleum Ultimate Soft Touch was a pleasant surprise. I was initially hesitant due to some mixed reviews, but I decided to give it a try. I wanted to achieve a flat and smooth finish on a walnut table top, and although the instructions suggested using a brush or applicator instead of spraying, I followed their advice.

Using a simple foam applicator, I applied three coats to the bottom and five coats to the top of the table. The result was incredible – a beautiful, natural-looking finish that truly highlighted the walnut wood. The product dried quickly and proved to be forgiving during the application process. Following the instructions provided by Rust-oleum was crucial in achieving the desired outcome.

Moreover, I appreciate that this product has no harsh smell, making it more pleasant to work with. I only wish that it was more readily available in local stores, as I had to purchase it online through Amazon.

In another project, I used Rust-oleum Ultimate Soft Touch on a butcher block countertop for an island. The finish turned out to be stunning, and the application process was easy. My husband, who is not accustomed to matte finishes, noticed that it seemed to soak into the wood. However, this characteristic is likely what contributes to the beautiful matte finish. So far, the finish has held up beautifully, proving its durability.

I recently purchased this product and I have to say, it exceeded my expectations. Firstly, it arrived exactly as described and was a perfect fit for my wood bowls. The quality of the product is impressive, and it has enhanced the appearance of my bowls significantly.

However, I did encounter a minor issue with the delivery process. It seems that someone attempted to steal the package outside my apartment. Fortunately, I noticed the ripped open package with the item next to it near the trash shoot. While this incident was disappointing, I must say that it speaks to the effectiveness of this product as a theft deterrent. The fact that the thief was discouraged by the effort required to use the item is a testament to its value.

Moving on to the performance of the product itself, I have always struggled to achieve a perfect finish using regular water and oil-based polys. Surprisingly, this particular type of poly has proven to be the opposite for me. It does not result in bubbles and self-levels quite well. Even if I accidentally apply too much in one spot, it is easy to even out with subsequent coats. The only drawback is that it takes longer to cure and may scratch easily.

In addition to using this product on wood bowls, I have also found it to be a wonderful miracle worker for sealing and adding shine to my polymer clay jewelry. I had previously tried numerous other products, but they left my creations sticky, goopy, or dull. However, this product came to my rescue and transformed my jewelry pieces. It even removed the stickiness and goopiness from items that I had already sealed with other inferior products. The longevity of this product is impressive as well, as one can is expected to last me a very long time.

Lastly, I have used this product in my fluid art and it has been a perfect companion. It is easy to mix and work with, and the lack of a harsh smell is a definite plus for me as I am sensitive to scents. This versatility makes it highly recommended for various creative uses.

I recently used Varathane to finish a guitar and I must say, I am highly impressed with the results. I followed the instructions and applied around 15 coats, allowing each coat to cure for at least an hour. After wet sanding to a fine grit and polishing, the finish turned out to be a stunning high gloss and clear coat, rivaling the quality of nitro lacquer. Additionally, the finish has proven to be durable and protective. I am so satisfied with the outcome that I plan on using Varathane again for future projects. However, I would like to caution users about storing the product in extreme temperatures, as leaving it in a hot garage caused the clear coat to amber slightly. It still performed well, but I recommend storing and using Varathane at room temperature for optimal results.

If you are a sculptor who works with bakeable polymer clay, I highly recommend using Varathane to seal your creations. Unlike other sealing products I have tried, such as Delta Ceramcoat Gloss Interior Varnish, Sculpy clay glaze, and Krylon Sealer, Varathane does not become sticky, especially in warm weather. After several months of sealing my clay creations, I have not experienced any issues. I stumbled upon a helpful blog from a clay artist who recommended using Rust-Oleum spray, and I am grateful for this recommendation. Varathane has become my go-to product and I will never use anything else. It may not always be readily available in local hardware stores, so I suggest purchasing it online to avoid disappointment.

I absolutely love this stuff. Varathane provides a smooth and even coat of high gloss, which I have used on both a set of drawer fronts on a refinished dresser and a desk top. The results were fantastic. In terms of application and aesthetic appeal, Varathane outperforms Minwax. This particular Varathane product is water-based, which means it requires more coats to achieve a glassy finish, but the trade-off is that it dries much smoother than the oil-based spray from Varathane. Another advantage is that it is odorless and dries quickly, allowing for multiple coats in a single day. I cannot recommend this product enough, it truly deserves a 5-star rating.

I recently tried out this polyurethane finish and I must say, I am thoroughly impressed. After using several cans of this product, I have a few tips to share. Firstly, the quality of the brush you use is crucial in achieving a smooth finish. I learned the hard way that using a low-quality brush results in visible bristle marks throughout. So, invest in a high-quality brush to ensure a flawless application.

Another tip I have is to closely monitor the surface as the finish lays down. Lightly sanding between coats helps to even out the finish, resulting in the best possible outcome. Speaking of coats, I found that this polyurethane truly lives up to its claim of one-coat coverage. I haven't had to reapply or recoat anything, which is a time-saver.

Personally, I absolutely love the satin finish of this product. It looks amazing on every project I have used it on, whether it's sealing stained wood trim, a sliding patio door, or lower kitchen cabinets. One thing I appreciate about this polyurethane is that it goes on white when wet, allowing me to easily see where I have applied it on my project.

What sets this polyurethane apart from others is its thickness. It is actually three times thicker compared to other brands like Minwax. I found that it starts off white when applied but dries clear. Additionally, it self-levels, which means that after the first coat, a fine sanding sponge can be used to achieve a polished look.

Despite initially passing on this product due to its cost, I decided to give it a try when I needed a quick coating solution. I am so glad I did because it exceeded my expectations. Not only does it provide excellent coverage with just one coat, but it also dries quickly, allowing me to complete my projects in a timely manner. Plus, since it is water-based, cleaning the brush is a breeze.

I have recently discovered the versatility of this product, originally intended for boats, and I must say, it has exceeded my expectations. Not only does it work wonders for outdoor decor, but it has also proven to be an excellent choice for waterproofing yard sculptures.

The product is slightly thin, so I recommend applying two coats for maximum effectiveness. I have successfully used it on various materials such as metal, resin, ceramic, cast iron, and even painted aluminum. Upon application, it initially appears slightly hazy, but once it dries, it becomes completely clear and transparent.

Using this water-based poly has been a breeze, requiring only soap and water for cleanup. However, it is important to note that if not cleaned promptly, the product can harden and ruin the brush. This unexpected hardening ability may catch you by surprise, but rest assured, it ensures a durable and long-lasting finish.

One of the standout features of this poly is its ability to preserve colors and prevent fading. Unlike oil-based poly, it does not leave a yellowing effect. Additionally, it provides excellent water repellency, making it ideal for protecting outdoor items. A little goes a long way, and the quart size is sufficient for multiple projects. The end result is a professional-looking finish that enhances the colors and deepens the overall appearance of the item.

In my personal experience, this product has proven to be incredibly effective for my projects. It dries crystal clear, offers exceptional protection, and adds the perfect finishing touch. I have also utilized it on my RC airplanes, particularly foam-based models like the Turbo Timber and Clipped Wing Cub. It serves as a lightweight solution for waterproofing and imparts a glossy finish that enhances the appearance of the planes. However, I would caution builders to avoid coating foam that comes into contact with other foam, as the friction between the coated surfaces may cause noise. Although I have not encountered any issues with the product sticking to itself, I have noticed some scrubbing noises when it accidentally came into contact with the flap/wing interface area.

I recently purchased the Varathane Matte Polyurethane for a DIY project, and I must say, it exceeded my expectations. I used it as a sealant on white chalk paint, and it worked wonders. Unlike other sealants, this one stayed matte with minimal shine, which was exactly what I was looking for. The best part is that it did not yellow or discolor the white paint at all. I highly recommend this product for anyone looking for a reliable and effective sealant.

I bought this product after staining a project with Varathane (Kona) stain and falling in love with the natural sheen of the red oak. I didn't want to compromise the beautiful finish with a high gloss sealant, so I decided to give the Varathane Matte Polyurethane a try. The consistency of the product is similar to runny school paste, and it goes on white and cloudy but dries very clear. After a few coats, there is a slight haze, but it adds character to the piece. The instructions recommend a minimum of 3 coats, and while it goes on thin, it dries quickly. However, it's important to follow the recommendation of not applying more than 2 coats in a 24-hour period for optimal results. Patience is key with this product, but the end result is definitely worth it. I have already applied 4 coats and might continue with more since the piece will be exposed to water. Overall, I'm impressed with the performance of this sealant.

If you're looking for the perfect matte finish for your kitchen cabinets, look no further. I wanted to avoid a shiny look, so I decided to try the Varathane Matte Polyurethane based on the positive reviews I read. I applied 3 coats to ensure durability in a heavy-duty area, and so far, there have been no scratches or chips. The best part is that there is no shine, exactly what I wanted for my cabinets. I am extremely satisfied with this product and would recommend it to anyone looking for a matte finish for their cabinets.

I used the Varathane Matte Polyurethane on salvaged barnboard, and it was exactly what I needed. I wanted a finish that would not be shiny but would also prevent dust from getting stuck in the rough surface. This product slightly darkened the color of the wood but provided no sheen, even less than satin. The application process was easy, and although it goes on milky, the end result is fantastic. I am thrilled with the outcome and would highly recommend this product for similar projects.

If you're looking for the best sealant for baked polymer clay, look no further than the Varathane Matte Polyurethane. It provides a matte finish that blends in perfectly, making it impossible to tell that there's a protective coat on the clay. This product is ideal for sealing and protecting baked polymer clay creations. I am extremely satisfied with the results and would highly recommend it to any clay artist.

As a passionate chalk painter, I have come across numerous products for finishing my pieces. While I appreciate the look of a waxed finish, I have found that it is not always practical, especially for items that are used frequently. Wax tends to be susceptible to watermarks and daily wear and tear, which is why I was thrilled to discover a more durable alternative.

Recently, I purchased a new home and embarked on a full renovation. I had a unique vision for my kitchen, opting for white chalk painted wood plank counters and a stained wood island. Knowing that the kitchen counters would be heavily used and prone to stains, I wanted to ensure they were well-protected without compromising their aesthetic appeal. I didn't want a kitchen that I would be afraid to use, despite the unconventional choice of white wood counters.

With the help of my contractor, the wood counters were assembled, and I eagerly set to work painting them. To provide the necessary protection, I turned to Minwax polyurethane, applying it diligently with a round head brush. For each countertop, I applied approximately six coats of poly, skipping the sanding process between every coat but doing so every other coat.

In the case of my stained wood island, I opted for the satin finish Minwax and applied an even more generous amount of polyurethane due to the nature of staining. Stain tends to seep into the wood, requiring additional layers of sealer. In total, I applied around twelve coats on the island to ensure its durability and longevity.

I am pleased to report that the results have exceeded my expectations. Despite the inevitable spills, splatters, and general kitchen mishaps, everything wipes up effortlessly with a towel or sponge. The water-based Minwax polyurethane has been my preferred choice due to its minimal odor. It is crucial to remember not to shake the product to avoid bubbling. Instead, I recommend stirring it with a disposable plastic spoon and applying thin, yet substantial layers. While the polyurethane may initially appear milky white as it is applied, it dries clear, preserving the true beauty of the painted or stained surface.

As for the finish, I find the Matte or Satin options to be my favorites, although the choice ultimately depends on the specific project. Considering the heavy use and potential wear on my kitchen counters, I anticipate reapplying the polyurethane after a year or so, adding a few additional coats to ensure their continued resilience.

Throughout my chalk painting journey, I have experimented with various polyurethane and sealer brands, but none have matched the durability and performance of Minwax. It has proven to be the best and most reliable option, allowing me to enjoy my chalk painted creations without worrying about their long-term protection.

I recently purchased the Minwax Satin water-based oil modified polyurethane and I must say, I am quite surprised by some of the negative reviews. I used this product to stain my floors with the Minwax oil-based stain in Gunstock color. First and foremost, it's important to follow the instructions provided. The floors should be lightly sanded between coats and steel wool should not be used. Secondly, it's important to work in small areas to ensure proper application. If you try to cover a large area, it can lead to issues.

One thing I really liked about this product is the fast drying time. It allowed me to complete the project quickly. Additionally, the smell was not as strong as regular oil-based polyurethane. I found it very easy to work with and it went on smoothly, resulting in a pleasant feel and a pleasing look. I am attaching before and after photos, showcasing the damage caused by my dogs and the sand they bring into the house, as well as the finished result after three coats of this product.

I am a 62-year-old female and I believe that anyone can use this product with ease.

I have been using Minwax products for decades, but this was my first time using this oil-modified, water-based polyurethane. I used it as a top coat on foam core board for a wall project where I applied a faux wood grain technique using both water-based and oil-based stains. This water-based polyurethane adhered equally well over both types of stain.

One of the things that impressed me the most was how quickly this product dried. It was ideal for the foam board, as it prevented warping or cupping due to excess moisture. I actually prefer this water-based polyurethane over the Minwax Polycrylic, which I have also used. While the Polycrylic is not a bad product, it takes a long time to dry and cure, which can be problematic. The fast drying, recoating, and curing time of this water-based polyurethane is especially beneficial for projects that require multiple coats and dry time in between.

I've read that this product may not be as durable as the water-based Polycrylic under extreme conditions, but for craft projects like the one I worked on, it was perfect and will likely become my go-to interior water-based top coat. I believe Minwax has done a great job with this product.

One tip I would like to share is to use a foam brush when applying this polyurethane. Bristle brushes did not work well with this product, and I found that a foam brush provided the best results. Additionally, it's important to work quickly and in sections, as this product dries rapidly. Brushing over the surface while it's still tacky can lead to a worse finish.