Sheen preference is a personal choice. Satin sheens reflect less light and
are often preferred in historical homes and by people who prefer the satin
effect. Many people choose satin for hardwood floors as well. The softer sheen
helps to hide dirt and scuff marks. Gloss sheens reflect more light and are
often prefered in contemporary homes.
Q. Is one sheen more durable than the others?
No. The additives which distinguish satin from semi-gloss and gloss do not
compromise the durability of the finish.
Q. What can be done to avoid bubbles in the finish?
There are four ways. First, stir, don't shake, the can. Second, use a
high-quality, natural bristle brush. Third, work the finish into the wood, but
don't create a froth. Fourth, "tip-off" the finish before stopping,
carefully running the brush at a 45-degree angle the length of each board in one
unbroken movement. This will burst and smooth out any bubbles that may have been
created.
Q. Should Minwax® Fast-Drying Polyurethane be sanded between coats?
For the smoothest finish, yes. A light sanding (#220 sandpaper) will remove
any fine particles of dust which may have settled on the finish while it was
still wet. Light sanding also helps abrade the surface, improving intercoat
adhesion. Sanding is an extra step, but one which distinguishes many amateur
projects from those of the professional.
Q. Does Minwax® Fast-Drying Polyurethane need to be waxed?
Not necessarily. Wax does provide an extra layer of protection, but it will
prevent you from reapplying an additional coat of Minwax® Fast-Drying
Polyurethane in the future without first removing the wax. Instead, we recommend
using Minwax®
Wood Cleaner to keep wood clean and looking beautiful.
Q. Can Minwax® Fast-Drying Polyurethane be applied over Minwax®
Tung Oil Finish or Minwax®
Antique Oil Finish?
Yes, but make sure the oil has had at least 24 hours to totally dry, and sand
lightly to ensure good adhesion.
Q. Do floors require special treatment?
If a floor has been freshly sanded with a power floor sander, it may absorb
more finish than a piece of furniture lightly sanded by hand. When you consider
this, plus the abuse a floor usually takes, three coats of Minwax® Fast-Drying
Polyurethane are often needed.
Q. What is the best way to determine how many coats of Minwax®
Fast-Drying Polyurethane to apply?
If you look closely at the wood in bright, direct light, you should not be
able to detect any dry spots. If you do, an additional coat is necessary to
protect the wood.
Q. Why does Minwax® Fast-Drying Polyurethane sometimes take longer
to dry than the instructions indicate?
The drying time is affected by the amount of moisture in the air and the air
temperature. For example, when humidity is high or temperature is low, it takes
longer for the film to cure.
Frequently
Asked Questions
