How to Add a Polyurethane Top Coat to a Table

Polyurethane is a top coat that provides a tough finish to wood products. Polyurethane is chemically resistant and will protect your wood product from liquid, heat and other potentially damaging elements. Polyurethane takes a long time to dry completely and more than one coat is needed, so it's important to learn the proper way to apply polyurethane to your wood table.

Polyurethane
White china bristled brush

Instructions

- 1
  Move the table outdoors to add the top coat. If you cannot work outdoors, open all the windows in the room where the table is located. If no windows are present, place a fan in the room and turn it on. This project should be done in a very well-ventilated area as polyurethane has a very strong, lingering odor.
- 2
  Prepare the table to be protected. Clear all objects and make sure the wood is clean and dry. Open the can of polyurethane and mix it well with a paint stirrer. Do not shake the can; this action will create air bubbles.
- 3
  Dip the paintbrush about 1 inch deep into the can of polyurethane.
- 4
  Begin in the middle of the table. Brush a thin coat onto the table. Keep your strokes long and even. Brush in the direction of the grain. Continue this process until the entire table is covered with one thin coat of polyurethane. Allow this coat to dry for six hours.
- 5
  Apply a second coat in the same manner as the first. Once finished, allow another six hours for the second coat to dry. Apply a third and final thin coat of polyurethane. Allow up to eight hours for the table to dry completely before using it.

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