QUESTION
What topcoat should I use?

ANSWER
It depends on several factors!

1. Do you prefer to work with oil or water?
2. What sheen do you like?
3. Are you spraying or hand applying?
4. Do you want the finish to amber or remain clear?
5. What species of wood are you working on?
6. How large is your project?
7. Is odor or cleanup an issue
8. Is dry time important?

In General Finishes retail line, there are two oil based and *three water based choices.

*General Finishes Flat Out Flat Topcoat was introduced after production of this video. To learn more about this product click here.

WATER BASED TOPCOATS

Let’s start with the properties of our water-based topcoats, General Finishes High Performance Topcoat and General Finishes Enduro-Var Topcoat. HP and Enduro-Var are non-penetrating and topical, cleanup with water, are easily sprayed or hand applied, and available in flat, satin, semi-gloss and gloss.

There are also a few differences between these two water-based products.

HIGH PERFORMANCE is a “water white,” low-odor finish that dries crystal clear, is ready to recoat 2-4 hours, and can be applied over any stain or paint as long as the underlying finish is dry.

ENDURO-VAR is also low-odor and cleans up with water, ambers over time, and can be recoated in 4 hours. It should not be used with oil-based products, including shellac and sanding sealer.

NEVER USE any water-based topcoat with oils such as Danish, Tung or Linseed.

OIL BASED TOPCOATS

Moving to our oil based topcoats; we have General Finishes Arm-R-Seal Topcoat and General Finishes Gel Topcoat. Both are hand application products not designed for spraying – the difference is viscosity. Both have a solvent odor, require clean up with mineral spirits, and can be applied over existing finishes. Always work in a well ventilated area when using oil products.

ARM-R-SEAL is a liquid penetrating finish; dries in 12-24 hours, and can be wiped on with a cloth or brushed on. It is offered in Satin, Semi-gloss and Gloss.

GEL TOPCOAT is more topical with a thick consistency. There are no drips, runs or spills and it dries in 12-24 hours. It is available only in Satin because the thickening agents flatten the sheen.

SUMMARY

In summary, If you do NOT want color in your topcoat, choose clear drying HIGH PERFORMANCE. If you want a top coat that ambers use oil based ARM-R-SEAL or GEL TOPCOAT, or water-based ENDURO-VAR. Not only does the color of a finish change over time, so does the wood. Remember, every species of wood is different; every tree is unique and will have a varying effect on the finished result. Be sure to test your topcoat in a hidden area first.