Can You Use a Paint Sprayer for Polyurethane
Spray painting furniture is popular because it’s a quick and efficient way to give old or outdated pieces a fresh new look, plus you get those smooth results! But can you use a paint sprayer for polyurethane?
You’ll want to have the same flawless results with your topcoat as you’ve had with your paint. So, let’s see if a paint sprayer for polyurethane is the way to go and learn some tips and tricks on how to use a paint sprayer on furniture with poly.
Polyurethane is one of the topcoats for painting furniture that protects and adds durability to your painted furniture. Most paints will need some type of topcoat to protect the color and the surface of the furniture, and polyurethane is a popular choice for its durability and beautiful finish.
It comes in oil based and water based formulas – oil based polyurethane is more durable but has a longer drying time and strong odor, while water based polyurethane or polycrylic dries faster but is less durable. Our polycrylic vs polyurethane comparison post dives more on their pros and cons.
Now, when applying polyurethane, you’ll want a smooth and even finish without any brush marks or drips, especially after using a sprayer to paint the furniture. Now, the question is, can you use a paint sprayer for polyurethane?
Can You Spray Polyurethane?
The answer is yes, you can use a paint sprayer for polyurethane! Spraying polyurethane will give you a smoother finish compared to brushing, and it can save you time compared to applying it by hand. However, there are some important things to consider when using a paint sprayer for polyurethane.
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How to Choose the Right Polyurethane
We mentioned above that polyurethane comes in an oil based and a water based formula. When choosing the right polyurethane, it’s important to consider which type will work best for your project. Both are durable options either way!
If you’re working on a piece that needs more durability, such as a dining table or outdoor furniture, oil based polyurethane may be the better choice. But if you’re painting something that won’t see heavy use, water based polyurethane can still provide adequate protection. Here’s polyurethane vs polycrylic for dining table for a more specific comparison.
Also, consider the drying time and odor. If you’re tackling a small project or don’t have much ventilation, water based polyurethane is the way to go since it dries faster and doesn’t smell as strong. But if you’ve got the space and time to let oil based polyurethane dry right, it can give you a longer lasting finish.
You also have to consider that oil based poly can have some yellowing over time, so if you’re painting white or light colored furniture, water based polyurethane is a safer bet for maintaining the color. But if you’re going for a vintage look and don’t mind some yellowing, oil based poly can add to that effect.
How to Spray Poly
Have you decided on the type of polyurethane you want to use? Now, we’ll look into how to use a paint sprayer for poly. You have to prepare your polyurethane before spraying it – you can’t use it straight from the can!
The first thing you should do is mix your polyurethane thoroughly to distribute the flattening agent throughout the can evenly. This will help prevent any uneven sheen or streaks when you spray. If you’re painting over a dark color, consider adding a tablespoon or two of the paint color to your poly to tint it in the color of your paint for a more even finish.
Next, it’s important to strain your polyurethane before spraying. We use disposable filters to remove any clumps or bumps that could affect how the poly sprays. You don’t want to end up with a clogged spray gun and a messy project!
Next, thin out the polyurethane. You can use water for water based poly and mineral spirits for oil based poly. You don’t need to thin the poly, but it’s worth the extra step if you want a super smooth finish. Thinning polyurethane is similar to thinning paint – here’s how to thin paint for a sprayer to guide you better.
Before spraying your project, test the sprayer on a scrap piece of wood or cardboard to make sure it’s spraying correctly. And when it comes to spraying, apply 3 thin coats for the best durability.
Let each coat dry completely before applying the next, and give your project at least 24 hours to dry after the last coat before using it. It will take at least 30 days for the poly to cure and get fully hardened. Here’s how to spray polyurethane on furniture for more detailed steps and tips.
Best Paint Sprayer for Polyurethane
If you’re planning to invest in a paint sprayer for paint and polyurethane, you’ll want to check out these best sprayer for polyurethane options! There are budget friendly options, such as the Wagner Control Spray 250, which is user friendly and great for handling thinner products. Check out our Wagner Control Spray 250 review to see it in action.
For those on a tighter budget, the Vonforn Paint Sprayer offers great value – it comes with a powerful motor and a larger container and is easy to assemble and clean. Our Vonforn paint sprayer review goes into more detail on its features and performance.
If you’re willing to invest in a more versatile and high quality option, the Wagner FLEXiO Paint Sprayers can handle thick paints, stains, and polyurethane. Find out which Wagner FLEXiO is best in this post!
So, can you use a paint sprayer for polyurethane? Absolutely! We’ve shared everything you need to know about using a paint sprayer for polyurethane, from choosing the right type of polyurethane to prepping and spraying your project. And if you’re in the market for a paint sprayer that you can use for paint and polyurethane, be sure to check out our recommendations.
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