
Can you put oil based polyurethane over water based poly?
Yes, you now really can apply water-based polyurethane over oil based polyurethane! The most important thing in apply water-based polyurethane over oil-based polyurethane is the Let dry and cure process. The whole procedure requires a decent waiting time for each formula; and might take up to 10 hours waiting between each layer.
Can you use oil based poly over water based?
There are two main types of poly finish that you can use; Oil Based and Water Based. Oil based poly is much better looking than its water based alternative – thanks to its softness when dry. However, water based poly dries and cures faster than oil based versions.
Can you put water based stain over oil based?
Yes, you can. Once an oil-based stain is properly dry, polycrylic can be applied similarly to water-based polyurethane. Simply follow the instructions above for the best results. The key to successfully applying water-based polyurethane over an oil-based stain is to ensure the stain is fully dry.
How many coats of water based polyurethane should you use?
You need 2-5 coats of water-based polyurethane. On average, 3 coats of water-based polyurethane is advised for surfaces that wouldn’t see much use like room decor. On surfaces that would be used heavily or be walked on, you can apply up to 5 coats of water-based polyurethane.

Can oil based polyurethane be applied over water based Polycrylic?
While both polyurethane and polycrylic can be applied over water-based or oil-based paints and finishes, you may find that polycrylic doesn't dry quickly over matte latex paint due to additives in the paint.
Can oil Based go over water based?
You can use oil-based paint on top of water-based paint. You can use a water-based primer on top of an oil-based primer. You can use an oil-based primer on top of a water-based primer. You can use oil-based primer on water-based paint.
Can you put polyurethane over existing polyurethane?
As long as you use the proper steps to prepare the finish, you can put Polyurethane over old Polyurethane. But before you apply the topcoat polyurethane, you might have to sand the surface lightly using a dull 120 to 150 grit abrasive or using a heavy floor buffer.
Can you put oil based polyurethane over water based paint?
Oil-based polyurethane will not bond to water-based paint. Be sure to select a compatible water-based polyurethane finish, or flaking will result.
Can you use Minwax water-based polyurethane over oil based stain?
Yes, you can apply water-based polyurethane over oil-based stain.
Which is better oil based or water based varnish?
Oil-based polyurethane is more durable than his water-based alternative since it contains a significant amount of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). Those chemicals make the finish tougher and allow it to last longer.
Can you put polyurethane over polyurethane without sanding?
No, you cannot recoat a polyurethane finished wood without sanding it. To begin, use a 120-150 grit sandpaper or no. 2 steel wool to sand the surface lightly. Remove the dust from the wood and clean it.
What happens if I don't sand between coats of polyurethane?
As wet coats of polyurethane dry, they pick up dust from the atmosphere, and bubbles or small imperfections develop. By the time you've applied three coats and failed to sand between each, the surface finish is rough when you run your hand over it, with a lower quality appearance.
Is 4 coats of polyurethane too much?
Are 4 Coats of Polyurethane too Much? In most circumstances, you only need three coats of oil-based polyurethane. You can use four or five coats of water-based polyurethane for hardwood floors, especially those that will see a lot of traffic or a lot of moisture.
How long does water-based polyurethane last?
about 3 to 5 yearsDurability and Longevity Water-based polyurethane typically lasts about 3 to 5 years at maximum shine and performance, compared to a varnish or oil-based polyurethane's 7 to 10 years. But that depends on a few considerations: High-traffic areas wear down much faster than areas of the floor that rarely see action.
Does oil based polyurethane turn yellow?
Oil based polyurethanes turn the floors yellow…and over time, they become more yellow…and sometimes even a bit orangish. It's the UV rays from the sun that turn them a darker yellow or amber and the more they are exposed over time, the yellower they get.
How can you tell if polyurethane is oil or water based?
Oil based vs. water based polyurethaneCOLOR: Oil-based poly has an amber hue, whereas water based poly is clear. ... DRYING TIMES: Oil-based poly takes much longer to dry and cure, and only one coat of oil based poly can be applied to a hardwood floor in 24 hours.More items...•
Can water based varnish go over oil based varnish?
It's a question we get often, actually—especially as more craftsmen are making the move to water-based finish. And actually, the answer is YES—you can use our EMTECH water-based sealer or top coat over the oil stain.
Can I use oil based polyurethane over acrylic paint?
You can use polyurethane over acrylic paint, but you want to choose the right version. Oil-based polyurethane has a gold tint. It'll alter the hue of the acrylic paint, particularly white or pastel paint. Water-based polyurethane dries clear, making it a better match for most acrylic paint.
Can I varnish over water based stain?
Can a water based varnish be applied over a water based stain? In simple terms yes. Care must be taken however when applying the first coat of varnish over the stain. If using a brush or roller the first coat of varnish should be lightly applied and not overworked by repeated brushing or rolling.
How long does it take to recoat polyurethane?
Flooring wholesalers and veteran floor finishers agree that you can recoat water-based poly with oil-based as long as the original coating has completely cured—generally 30 to 60 days. You’ll have to lightly buff the old finish with a power buffer to prepare it for the new polyurethane.
How to clean stained wood before applying polyurethane?
Rent a power buffer and buy a fine (150-grit) screen. Use a light touch to avoid cutting through the finish and into the stained wood. Before applying the polyurethane, vacuum the floor thoroughly and then wipe up the remaining dust with a cloth dampened with mineral spirits.
Can you recoat acrylic floors with oil based polyurethane?
Recoating a water-based acrylic floor finish with oil-based polyurethane is not usually a problem, so long as the old finish is properly buffed and cleaned before applying the new finish.
Can you put water based poly over oil based poly?
Yes, you can put water based polyurethane over an existing finish of oil based polyurethane or other type of paint. However, it’s important that you remove all loose paint first.
How long does it take water based polyurethane to dry?
Water-based polyurethane dries very quickly compared to oil based type finishes. It will dry in about 4 hours and can be used after an hour or two. Keep in mind, however, that it is not fully cured until it has been sanded and allowed to dry again. The smaller the area you are working with, the faster it will cure.
Can You recoat acrylic flooring with oil based polyurethane?
Cleaning and buffing the old finish before applying the new one is usually not an issue when recoating a water-based acrylic floor with an oil-based polyurethane. You can easily recoat acrylic flooring with oil based polyurethane.
How long does urethane last?
Oil-based urethane can last up to 40 years or more when applied properly, while water-based finishes are not as durable and usually require recoating in 5-10 years. On the other hand, water based finishes dry faster than oil, which is advantageous if you need to apply multiple coats in a single day.
How long does it take for polyurethane to cure?
The polyurethane will need about 72 hours to completely cure before it is ready for regular use. If you plan on applying more coats over your original two, be sure that is enough time has passed between each application. Keep in mind, after one hour you can wipe up any spills on the surface of your furniture with a dry cloth.
How to clean polyurethane?
Water based polyurethane is very easy to clean up, just soap and water with a rag works great. Make sure to wash your tools well to avoid coating them, as the material is hard to remove even with paint thinner.
Why use water based polyurethane?
The use of a water based polyurethane is becoming more popular in the furniture finishing world, due to its easier clean up and lower odor. One of the biggest fears people have of using a water based finish is that it will not be as robust as a solvent based lacquer, shellac or varnish.
Can You Put Water Based Polyurethane over Oil based Polyurethane
Yes, you can apply water-based polyurethane over oil-based polyurethane. Given that both bases accomplish the same task, using one on top of the other is not a problem, whether for a refinishing job or a new project.
How to Apply Water-Based Polyurethane Over Oil-Based Polyurethane
Given their different constitutions, you would think water-based, and oil-based finishes don’t go together, probably because oil and water don’t mix.
What are the Benefits of Applying Water-Based Polyurethane Over Oil-Based Polyurethane?
The main benefit when you apply water-based polyurethane over oil-based poly is noticeable in the long run. Over time, oil-based polyurethane has an amber hue color.
Water-Based Polyurethane Over Oil Based Polyurethane FAQs
Yes, you can apply water-based polyurethane over oil-based stain. You may be thinking, “But oil and water don’t mix,” and you’ll be right. You won’t be mixing them; you’d just be applying water based polyurethane over the stain. Learn how to apply water-based polyurethane over oil-based stain to avoid any blunders.
Ready to Apply Water-based Poly Over Oil-based?
It was such a huge relief to find out I can put water-based polyurethane over water-based polyurethane. This gives woodworkers the freedom to take on old and new projects with confidence.
What is the difference between oil based polyurethane and water based polyurethane?
Both water and oil-based polyurethane do their jobs so well and even share some similarities. However, they have significant differences between them. Here are some of the differences: Color: The first noticeable difference between water and oil-based poly is the color. For the oil-based one, you will likely find it in an amber hue color ...
How long does it take for oil based polyurethane to dry?
Drying times: Another significant difference between Water-based and oil-based polyurethane is the curing time. Oil-based polyurethane takes about 24 hours to dry while water-based one takes ...
How to clean a polyurethane finish?
Wipe clean the finish using a tack rag. You can as well use a vacuum cleaner, if you have one, to remove all the traces of dirt that remained after roughening. At this point, you have done the necessary preparation by cleaning and deglossing. Feel free to follow this by applying the water-based polyurethane.
How to clean a finish?
Use a detergent or a ball of synthetic wool to clean the surface of the finish if you suspect the presence of dirt or grease on it. Soon after cleaning your surface, follow it with deglossing. A 120 grit sandpaper does a great job of roughening. Wipe clean the finish using a tack rag.
How long does it take for a saline solution to dry?
Once you are through with your applications, allow it time to dry thoroughly, which usually takes up to 10 hours following application.
Can you use polyurethane over oil based?
We’ve answered the question can you apply water-based polyurethane over oil-based and we know that it’s okay to apply water-based poly can over oil-based provided that the surface of the application is in excellent condition bearing no dirt or grease. It is appropriate that you remove all the traces of grease on the oil-based finish using the procedures highlighted earlier on in this article.
Is oil based polyurethane harder than water based polyurethane?
Thickness and Hardness: Oil-based poly is thicker; it is also softer, a property that makes it easier to dent. Water-based polyurethane is, on the other hand, thinner but harder. A water-based poly, therefore, can easily scratch. Cost: Cost is the significant difference between these two based and o amazing formulas.
Can I use water based polyurethane over oil based polyurethane?
Answer: In most cases, it is OK to use a water-based polyurethane over an oil-based finish in good condition. You should remove grease, dirt and wax by scrubbing the surface with a wood prep/cleaner/de-glosser, or mineral spirits and synthetic steel wool.
Can you use a water based polyurethane over an oil?
Can You Use Water-based Polyurethane over Oil-based Stain? Yes, you can apply water-based polyurethane over oil-based stain. You may be thinking, “But oil and water don’t mix,” and you’ll be right. You won’t be mixing them; you’d just be applying the polyurethane over the stain.
Can you layer oil based and water based polyurethane?
Flooring wholesalers and veteran floor finishers agree that you can recoat water-based poly with oil-based as long as the original coating has completely cured—generally 30 to 60 days. You’ll have to lightly buff the old finish with a power buffer to prepare it for the new polyurethane.
Can you put water based over oil based?
Let’s break it down. You cannot use water-based paint on top of oil-based paint. You can use oil-based paint on top of water-based paint. You can use a water-based primer on top of an oil-based primer.
What happens if you put water based Poly over oil based stain?
Oil and water don’t mix. Water-based poly can have adhesion problems when applied over an oil-based stain that’s not thoroughly cured. That’s why you should always apply a barrier coat of dewaxed shellac to seal oil-based stain.
Can you apply polyurethane over old polyurethane?
As long as you use the proper steps to prepare the finish, you can put Polyurethane over old Polyurethane. But before you apply the topcoat polyurethane, you might have to sand the surface lightly using a dull 120 to 150 grit abrasive or using a heavy floor buffer.
Which is better water based or oil based polyurethane?
Oil based used to be unquestionably more durable. Today though, water based polyurethane has evolved with better formulations that are equally durable as oil based polyurethane. High quality water based polyurethanes is considered by many homeowners & flooring professionals to be equally durable.
Can you use water-based polyurethane over oil-based stain?
Yes, you can apply water-based polyurethane over oil-based stains. However, the oil-based stain should be completely dry before top-coating with polyurethane. Be aware that drying times for oil-based stains vary. Apply the polyurethane too soon and it may not dry correctly and ruin the finish.
How to apply water-based polyurethane over an oil-based stain
We’ve written this article on applying polyurethane if you’d like an in-depth look at some tips and tricks, but here is an abbreviated step-by-step guide. You’ll need the following tools:
How long to let the stain dry before applying polyurethane?
Many factors affect the drying time of oil-based stains, including external factors such as being indoors or outdoors, the ambient temperature, humidity, and airflow. Add to that the different chemical compositions of the stains from different manufacturers, and there is no one answer to drying times.
Do you have to sand stain before applying polyurethane?
No. I’m assuming the surface was sanded and smoothed sufficiently before you applied the stain. If you sand the surface, you may remove the stain unevenly, damaging your finish. Just ensure that before you begin the surface is clean, dry, and dust-free, using rags, a vacuum, and painter’s tack cloths.
Will polyurethane affect the color of the stain?
Water-based polyurethane will not affect the color of your stain. While it can look a milky color in the tin, it dries clear. Oil-based polyurethanes add a light amber color, enriching and deepening the stain color, but water-based products maintain the stain’s natural tint. Water-based polyurethane is ideal for lighter coloured woods and stains.
How many coats of polyurethane to apply?
The number of coats depends on the use of the stained object. Furniture that isn’t subject to hard knocks will need a minimum of three coats. Stair treads or wooden floors should receive five to six coats. The great thing about water-based polyurethane is that you can’t apply too many coats as you can with an oil-based product.
Water-based poly over oil stain: final word
The key to successfully applying water-based polyurethane over an oil-based stain is to ensure the stain is fully dry. While the manufacturer’s recommendations will guide you, remember that the temperature, humidity, and airflow at your location will dictate drying times.
Can You Seal Oil-Based Stain Using Water-Based Polyurethane?from diywithchristine.com
Wondering what will happen if you apply a water-based polyurethane over an oil-based stain, and whether this is something that you can/should do, or not? Well, look no further because I have your answer!
Can You Use Water-based Polyurethane over Oil-based Stain?from woodworkingclarity.com
Yes, you can apply water-based polyurethane over oil-based stain. You may be thinking, “But oil and water don’t mix,” and you’ll be right. You won’t be mixing them; you’d just be applying the polyurethane over the stain.
Do You Have to Sand Oil-Based Stain Before Applying Polyurethane?from woodworkingclarity.com
No, you do not need to sand the oil-based stain before using water-based polyurethane. You would have already sanded the wood to a smooth finish before applying the stain. As stain is absorbed into the wood, the polyurethane will adhere easily.
Is Mixing Oil-Based Stain and Polyurethane Toxic?from woodworkingclarity.com
Wood stains and polyurethane emit Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), which means they are both toxic. However, combining them doesn’t make them more toxic.
How Long Does it Take Oil-Based Stain to Dry?from woodworkingclarity.com
Oil-based stain takes 1-2 hours to dry before being ready for another coat. However, to be ready for the water-based polyurethane, it needs to cure for a minimum of 8 hours in normal conditions and 24 hours in cooler conditions.
How Many Coats of Water-Based Poly Should You Apply?from woodworkingclarity.com
When applying water-based polyurethane on an oil-based stain, you only need 3 to 4 coats. However, you might need more coats if you diluted the poly a lot more than recommended by the manufacturer.
Do I Need Any Other Coating?from diywithchristine.com
You don’t need another coating between oil-based stain and water-based polyurethane, but some people do choose to add one. This reduces the risk of the oil-based stain not having dried fully and makes it easier to speed up the whole process.
