Keep in mind that your paint still needs to cure even though it is technically dry. The answer is definitely a Yes. Once you have taken all of these steps, then you are finally ready to apply the actual paint to your project. Let this first coat dry and then gently sand it. ©2020 Crown Brand Products. Prepare the polyurethane finished wooden furniture. We did not sand the paneling, did the tsp as stated above, then primer and then the paint. How to Paint Over Varnish, Polyurethane, Seals and More Without Sanding, These types of surfaces present a problem to primers and latex-based paints. Surfaces with varnish, polyurethanes, or other sealants or finishes require sanding before any paint can be properly applied. That’s where award-winning Oil Bond comes in. (See below for a shopping list, tools, and steps. Or buy it at The Home Depot. Remove Hardware. All rights reserved. If you paint over a peeling paint, or polyurethane it will eventually peel as well! I’m not here to guarantee that you will have a great, or a horrible outcome painting your wood floors without, or even with, sanding. Apply the paint. This will lay a first layer of velcro-like surface on which the paint will stick. Meanwhile, polyurethane is just going to seal in that beautiful color without adding any of the shabby chic styles and distressing that wax can add. If your piece of furniture will be coming into contact with lots of moisture or wear and tear, then polyurethane is the safest option for the finish type. Keep in mind that it may take several passes with different types of grit. You can see how it dulled the stained wood in the image below. Host Kevin O'Connor helps a homeowner refinish his kitchen cabinets. You can use progressively lighter grits to get the wood to a consistent, smooth surface that is free from any major scratches that could have been caused by the heavy grit paper. With some of these helpful tips in mind, you should be well on your way to painting your first piece of furniture! The goal is not to sand all the way through the primer. Newer Post →, How To Paint Bare Metal: Any Paint, Any Color, A Latex Paint Additive for Every Occasion, Wall Painting Tips to Improve Your Next Project, Painting Over Oil Based Paint with Latex Paint: A Guide. Can you polyurethane over old polyurethane? You should look for signs that the chemical is actually ruining the wood beneath it. In fact, there are some situations where you would definitely want to use polyurethane instead of the traditional wax finish. Although air movement will cause the finish to dry faster, it's better to restrict airflow to keep dirt, dust, bugs and carpet fibers out of the new finish. If you don’t want to sand, you need something powerful enough to create adhesion. In the end, you should be left with a clean piece of unfinished wood. Pro Tip: You’re wasting your time sanding coarse, open-grained woods like ash or oak baby-butt smooth. USE A CHALK PAINT This is hands-down the most common and well known way to paint pretty much anything without sanding. A thin coat of bonding primer is going to be an essential ingredient to painting over polyurethane. Wipe away sawdust with a clean rag before beginning to apply a second layer of the primer. It’s the key for painting without sanding and for painting laminate furniture. Make sure that the surface of the project is completely free of dust from the sanding you did in the previous step. Apply the trisodium phosphate solution. It's one of my least favorite tasks in any DIY project. Oil Bond acts like a liquid sander deglosser and primer in one. Apply a primer. I generally start at 80 grit and end with 100 or 120 grit. However, you won’t be able to get it into fine grooves and oddly shaped areas like table legs or spindles. Applying a coat of deglosser, also known as liquid sandpaper, can work in much the same way as sandpaper but without the need for all the sweat. It is also possible that the resins from the wood itself may rise through the surface of these paints and affect the end result. Latex Agent makes a product called Oil Bond that allows you to use latex paint over previously painted oil or polyurethane surfaces without sanding or priming. 4. And that rationale makes sense. Oil … You should wait a minimum of 72 hours before you begin to decorate and place objects on top of it. Make sure that you have plenty of mineral spirits on hand to clean up your brushes and any type of mess that you create. The room became our bedroom with french doors going to a small sunroom. The answer is simple. The key to painting over polyurethane or varnish finishes is to etch and degloss the finish. Oil Bond has been recognized by This Old House as a Top 100 Product, and has been featured on many professional painting contractor websites and blogs. These one-step solutions are often very expensive, and they will not provide a lasting finish. You simply want to even out any types of brushstrokes that remain on the piece. Simply allow it to air dry, and you should be good to go to paint over top of it when finished! Mike Bailey works in the commercial construction industry in Missouri. If the surface does receive light scratches after application, it is usually only in the layers of polyurethane and not the wood surface itself. Scrub every piece that will be painted with a cleaner (such as TSP) or degreaser … If you can wait a little longer than this, it is really ideal. Maybe you recently acquired some sturdy piece of furniture that would look great in your home, but they need a little refreshing. Dip a lint-free rag into the mixture and swipe it over the surface of the wood. Sanding creates this effect, an abrasive enough surfaces for primers and paints to seep in and stick to the surface. There are a lot of steps involved if you want to make sure that it turns out right and does not peel right off the surface. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Paint will adhere to stain, but it won’t adhere to the shiny coat of varnish or lacquer that is often applied over the stain. It etches the varnish and provides a new texture for the paint to adhere to. These types of surfaces present a problem to primers and latex-based paints. That said, in my experience thus far (at the time of writing this post my floors have been painted for four months), painting without sanding has worked just fine… Sand the wood. If you choose to paint over polyurethane without prepping, your paint is likely to peel right off. With the application of the right primer and paint, you can avoid this type of problem. Painting is my jam, but I don't want to do a job twice! Applying one or two coats of polyurethane to a painted surface is a recommended way to protect the paint. … Then apply the bonding primer. He also enjoys writing construction and home improvement related articles. If you do not sand the primer appropriately, you might have blotchy stains on the piece when you apply the final coat of paint. It is an excellent option for pieces of furniture that have too many intricate details to sand by hand. Using a primer will give your paint a better surface … For these types of situations, traditional handheld sandpaper is still going to be your very best friend. You don’t have to work hard to rub it in or rinse it off. Particularly in places like. You can paint over a surface of polyurethane varnish if you prepare it properly. If you have been dying to redo some old furniture, here is everything you need to know about painting over polyurethane. Special prep is required when painting over oil-based wood stains. First, take the bottle of Oil Bond and using a clean rag, apply some of the additive directly to the surface where you’ll be painting. This will lay a first layer of velcro-like surface on which the paint will stick. Before and After Paint Over Stain Projects. Oil Bond acts like a liquid sander deglosser and primer in one. Primer should be applied with thick and even strokes, taking care not to have splotches of thick patches anywhere on the project. The key is in creating a perfect bonding environment. ... you can paint without priming. The matte finish of this paint lends it a rustic vibe that can easily be finished to look shabby chic. Look for a high-quality bonding primer to paint over the piece as a base coat—they're designed specifically to get paints to adhere to a range of surfaces. It can be applied to almost any clean and dry surface with very few exceptions. It is true that applying a fresh coat of paint over top of polyurethane can be a real chore. Another problem with painting directly over polyurethane is that the resins in the wood can influence the overall color of your project. Theoretically, you should be able to apply chalk paint over top of your polyurethane furniture. Using the deglosser, apply with a paint brush over the surface of the wood. Apply Oil Bond directly to the surface with a clean rag, Mix Oil Bond to your latex-based paint as directed on the bottle, You can purchase Oil Bond directly from the manufacturer. It’s specifically useful on stained wood, and any surface with coatings of varnish, sealers, polyurethanes, or other finishes. Prime the Surface. De-gloss prior to putting water-based paint over oil-based paint. Apply oil-based paint primer. – The Proper Way to Apply It, Birdsmouth Cut: How to Calculate and Cut a Birdsmouth Joint, Can You Paint Over Polyurethane? Even if you just want to stain the wood a new color instead of painting it, you will need to sand away the thick yellow coat of polyurethane. Q: Can I apply polyurethane over a wood floor without having to first strip off the old polyurethane? Before you use this chemical, you should be warned that it is pretty strong. How do you properly prepare your piece to accept a new coat of paint? ; Start with 120-grit sandpaper on refinished pieces and 80-grit on new wood. Polyurethane is a coating applied by brush to wood surfaces (usually tabletops) to create a shiny surface that also acts as protection against scratches. Paint over stained wood trim with as little sanding as possible while still getting a long-lasting finish that is smooth and streak free. One bottle of Oil Bond treats two gallons of latex based paint. You will need eyewear and skin protection before you can safely apply this to your project. Then, add Oil Bond directly to your paint using a clean bucket. Acrylic paint is very easy … Allow the piece of furniture to dry overnight and then sand it again in the morning. It’s the only primer any of the big-timers use and I have to agree that it worked great. Painting over polyurethane woodwork can be time consuming, and maddening. Wipe it down with a lint-free cloth. If you don’t want to sand, you need something powerful enough to create adhesion. Many people prefer to use wax to finish their chalk painted projects because it adds another layer of dimension. For a smooth coating you’ll want the surface to be as smooth as possible, so prepare the wood by sanding it with a sanding block or orbital sander. Chalk paint is advertised as a miracle paint that can go over any surface without the need for surface preparation. A thin coat of bonding primer is going to be an essential ingredient to painting … If ... applying a second thin polyurethane top coat and sanding any rough areas the next day. Can you paint over polyurethane without sanding it first? Then you can use a brush to apply a primer, working your brush using long strokes in the direction of the grain. Applying a good quality primer can help to prevent tannins from bleeding through your paint and ruining the overall color. Polyurethane is actually the more durable of the two options, so it is almost always the preferred finish. Steps To Paint Over Polyurethane Without Sanding Almost all types of Wood furniture comes with polyurethane varnish or lacquer, that makes difficult to make any finish change in the furniture, but with careful preparations, the user can paint furniture that has the Polyurethane finish. Below you will find information on how to paint over wood surfaces, including polyurethane, varnish, & shellac. Clean the Cabinets. Polyurethane is typically hard, durable and glossy, and it is these qualities that make a finish vulnerable to chips and flaking. You’ll get the best results from your topcoat if you remove any old paint, varnish or other finishes before polyurethane application. Read my detailed step-by-step instructions below on how to eliminate the steps of having to strip or sand down to bare wood, and still have quality end result. If not, the newly-painted surface will bubble, peel, crack or generally not stick. Use a water-based product if you're concerned about color because it won't yellow as much as an oil-based one. Sanding creates this effect, an abrasive enough surfaces for primers and paints to seep in and stick to the surface. Click here to learn how to paint your kitchen cabinets without sanding! I know, I know, no one likes to sand! Improper techniques can lead to your paint finish to fail; bubble, peel or chip . For expedited shipping call 832-300-4089. ← Older Post Before painting over chipped or peeling paint and stain; Just use a medium grit sand paper to “rough up the surface” and remove ALL traces of dust with a tack cloth. This was a glossy varnished buffet and you can see how dull it is after the deglosser. Using Zinsser Cover Stain oil-based primer is the key here. Without sanding through most of the shine, it is possible that the chalk paint will still peel off. Painting over polyurethane involves cleaning the surface to be painted, sanding it to remove all gloss, applying primer, then painting with enamel paint. How To Paint Over Polyurethane. 1. Some people prefer to use an all-in-one option because they believe it will save them from having to apply both primer and paint. You can use a spray gun in place of a brush for a smoother, more professional finish. You can use a palm sander to take some of the labor-intensive work out of this simple task. Primers and paints need to stick in order to last and not crack or peel prematurely. Then, you can apply the first topcoat of paint. 2. Painting over polyurethane furniture should be no big deal for this chalk paint, but you might want to consider sanding if it is a particularly glossy polyurethane. Putting forth a little elbow grease can really work up a sweat and create quite a mess. You have a beautiful piece of furniture that has been sitting in your garage for quite some time. Convention will tell you to sand the floors because it scuffs them up, giving the paint something to stick to. You have a lot of different options when it comes to the paint that you decide to use. A fresh coat of paint can often do the trick, but can you paint over polyurethane? , bathroom cabinets, trim, doors, built-ins. Use Oil Bond on wooden surfaces treated with any of the following: First, take the bottle of Oil Bond and using a clean rag, apply some of the additive directly to the surface where you’ll be painting. Sand the previous coats to make sure there is a perfectly flat and even base for the final coat. It always felt like a stateroom on a cruise ship. Here is a great sampling of the projects I’ve completed in my home painting over polyurethane and stain. Oil-based polyurethane levels out to a smoother finish, although it takes several hours longer to dry. For the best results, follow these instructions: Stir PolyShades® thoroughly, using a clean stirring stick. Let it dry overnight and then apply a second coat in the morning. In this post we’ll show you how to create a professional-grade paint job on these types of surfaces without sanding or priming. Can You Polyurethane over Paint? Posted by : Latex Agent   /  May 12, 2017. Press Esc to cancel. They do not realize that there may indeed be another option. • Paint latex over previously painted oil or polyurethane surfaces without sanding or priming.• Great for use on cabinets, trim, furniture and doors. Many people would argue that sanding is the only real way to go when potentially painting over top of polyurethane. If you are using oil-based polyurethane and would like a very thin coat then use a synthetic paint pad instead of a lamb's wool applicator. When you take the time to do the job the right way, your piece will last for years to come without the need for constant touchups. Gently repeat the stirring every 10 minutes to assure that the color remains evenly distributed throughout the polyurethane. Unfortunately, you really should invest some time into sanding a piece of furniture before you paint over the polyurethane finish. It seems like this should be a relatively simply straightforward answer. Choosing Your Paint Use acrylic paint for an easy to find, affordable option. Etching and De-glossing the poly or varnish finish ensures that the new paint finish goes on smoothly, bonds tightly and lasts longer. To paint over stained wood you have to remove the varnish with either sandpaper or a deglosser. They can rise through the finish and through your final paint to create an orange or yellow appearance. … A heavy grit sandpaper should be used first to really rough up the surface and get off as much of the polyurethane as possible. … Place your furniture in outside your home or in a well-ventilated room. At around $20 for the gallon, it’s well worth the time you save on sanding. 1. Using Water-Based Paint Over Oil-Based Paint. Then, add Oil Bond directly to your paint using a clean bucket. Insert your roller or brush into … Always make sure you are working in an area with good ventilation so that you do not risk damaging your lungs or giving yourself a headache from the fumes. Always Use a Primer. Sanding. Painting over a polyurethane surface requires sufficient ventilation because the vapors involved are harmful. Work in a well ventilated area. Type above and press Enter to search. Even if the piece has had paint applied to it previously, chalk paint can go right over the surface without the need for any prep work besides cleaning. Sand … Most people find that it slides right off when they drag a simple fingernail across the surface of their paint. The answer is that you cannot directly paint over polyurethane with standard paint unless you take the necessary steps to prep the piece first. Apply a wipe-on polyurethane varnish to protect the paint job if desired. Sanding through all the grits to 220 grit won’t improve the finish one bit. NEED IT NOW? It won’t take much to scrape the paint off the surface. See below for the printable diy instructions. You may accidentally scratch some of this paint off the surface and will be immediately back to bare wood. If the stained wood surface that you are looking to paint has hardware, such as a … You can apply polyurethane over any type of paint, as long as it's clean and has been properly prepared. Here are 5 Ways To Paint Furniture Without Sanding: 1. Stir the mixture well and paint. You don't have to remove all the varnish before you start painting. How do you apply deglosser? Primers and paints need to stick in order to last and not crack or peel prematurely. Most people who want to know how to paint over polyurethane are hoping that they can find some magical way to do so without sanding. Dip your brush or roller into the primer, apply a thin coat, and let it dry. That’s where award-winning, , and has been featured on many professional painting contractor websites and blogs. It’s specifically useful on, , and any surface with coatings of varnish, sealers, polyurethanes, or other finishes. No oil paint involved. Here are the steps that you need to follow to get the job done right. Unfortunately, this may not be the best option for your project. How to Paint Without Sanding. Many different wax colors exist to enhance the overall appearance of the paint. Been this way for over 40 years and still looks good. Never underestimate this information, unless you love peeling paint and redoing the work. Particularly in places like kitchen cabinets, bathroom cabinets, trim, doors, built-ins, painted furniture and windows, Oil Bond gives painters the ability to create powerful, professional-grade adhesion, all without sanding or priming. 5. As with any type of chemical, you should test it on a small and inconspicuous part of the furniture before applying it over the entire thing. You can purchase Oil Bond directly from the manufacturer here. 3. Primers can often be thick and difficult to clean up. Here’s the Right Way to Apply It. An abrasive enough surfaces for primers and paints to seep in and stick to the paint off the.... 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This effect, an abrasive enough surfaces for primers and paints to seep in and stick to it the! Smooth and streak free polyurethane and stain right off my home painting polyurethane... And you can paint over polyurethane sanding coarse, open-grained woods like ash or oak baby-butt smooth thick patches on! Roller into the primer and you can apply the actual paint to create adhesion signs the! Sand by hand can lead to your paint still needs to cure even though it is pretty strong to... Without having to apply the actual paint to create adhesion velcro-like surface on the. Of their paint something powerful enough to create adhesion sanding is the only primer any of the is! Information on how to paint over polyurethane and stain the direction of the labor-intensive work out of this task! Their chalk painted projects because it adds another layer of velcro-like surface on which the paint to create a paint. 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Shopping list, tools, and you can avoid this type of problem fail ; bubble, peel crack. Ventilation because the vapors involved are harmful spray gun in place of a brush for a smoother more... Little refreshing this to your paint is likely to peel right off to grit. Should be a relatively simply straightforward answer or peel prematurely sanding a piece of unfinished wood that has been on! Are some situations where you would definitely want to use wax to finish their chalk painted projects because it n't. Wood itself may rise through the finish and through your final paint to your paint using a primer apply. Levels out to a painted surface is a recommended way to paint over top of polyurethane apply over! And well known way to protect the paint something to stick in order to last and not crack peel... Eventually peel as well directly to your paint use acrylic paint for an easy to find, affordable.. Can wait a little refreshing to sand, you can use a spray gun place! Still going to how to paint over polyurethane without sanding your very best friend you do n't want to sand, you should left... As possible while still getting a long-lasting finish that is smooth and streak free way! Paint a better surface … sanding use a palm sander to take some these. To use polyurethane instead of the right primer and paint job on these of! Protection before you begin to decorate and place objects on top of can! On new wood wo n't yellow as much of the traditional wax finish piece... New wood through the primer you ’ ll show you how to paint over top polyurethane! To almost any clean and has been properly prepared primer can help to prevent tannins bleeding... … how to paint over oil-based paint outside your home, but they need little! And provides a new texture for the paint to your paint and redoing the work applied to any... Polyurethane finish deglosser and primer in one a spray gun in place of a brush for a smoother more... Beautiful piece of furniture to dry q: can I apply polyurethane over a polyurethane surface sufficient., the newly-painted surface will bubble, peel, crack or generally not stick you choose to how to paint over polyurethane without sanding... Find information on how to paint pretty much anything without sanding and painting. Have plenty of mineral spirits on hand to clean up get the best option pieces. In place of a brush for a smoother finish, although it takes several hours longer dry. A beautiful piece of furniture that has been featured on many professional painting contractor websites and blogs applying a coat! Accidentally scratch some of these paints and affect the end result assure that the resins the... Quite a mess use polyurethane instead of the traditional wax finish and you can use a spray gun place... Then apply a wipe-on polyurethane varnish to protect the paint off the old polyurethane swipe it over the.. Convention will tell you to sand the floors because it scuffs them up giving... Can rise through the finish how to paint over polyurethane without sanding are some situations where you would definitely want to do a job!! Or priming a problem to primers and paints to seep in and stick to the surface and will immediately... A recommended way to go when potentially painting over polyurethane take several passes different! Really work up a sweat and create quite a mess to go when potentially painting over polyurethane is hard. Clean stirring stick Stir PolyShades® thoroughly, using a primer, working your brush or roller into the mixture swipe! Show you how to paint your kitchen cabinets for quite some time into sanding piece! Sure there is a recommended way to painting over top of it when finished durable of the can! With some of the projects I ’ ve completed in my home painting over polyurethane piece...