Question 1

what the difference between this and the polycrylic??

Accepted Answer

I use both for different reasons. This oil base is more durable against wear and water rings than polycrylic for things like table tops and countertops. It is easier to get a smooth finish when brushing because it dries slower and flows out flatter. It WILL impart a warm, yellowish finish that is visible on lighter woods, and it will create a darker patina with age. It gives a warm, amber glow to medium or dark wood finishes. This quality may or may not be desirable. It usually only requires two coats. Use it for durability, a warm, aged patina, and ease of application towards a smooth finish.

Polycrylic is not as durable and can show "elbow wear" on table tops after a few year. It will stay crystal clear on white woods, but can impart a milky sheen on darker woods. It dries fast, so you can sand between coats much quicker than oil. However, that can make it tricky to brush it on and get a smooth finish, especially if you brush back over it when it gets tacky. It requires minimum of 3 coats, 4 for long durability. on wearable surfaces Use it when you need a crystal clear finish on light colored woods, and fast drying between coats is desired.

Question 2

Will it be very shine and smooth for the surface after I use? thanks

Accepted Answer

Yes.  I recommend first using a 600 grit sandpaper to lightly remove old finish. Remove all dust with a damp cloth, and then lightly spray on first coat (Thin coat best).

Wait 24 hours to dry. Next lightly sand using a 1500 grit sandpaper, remove all dust with a damp cloth, and then lightly spray on first coat (Thin coat best). Repeat this step two more times. Glass feel may require additional applications. Remember thin coats.

PS: If you choose the brush method, do not use sponge brushes since it is more likely to leave bubbles, use a good quality sable hair brush. I did a bar top decades ago applying clear polyurethane with about 20 thin coats in the first year about once every other week and I left a penny at the end of the top and coated over it until it disappeared ant the bar top was so smooth. The top was red mahogany that is probably still a luster for the new owner. I could slide a bear from one end to the other end.

Question 3

Can this be used on floors?

Accepted Answer

Yes, this oil based polyurethane fast drying is absolutely engineered for hardwood floor and definitely in high traffic areas. I used the water based polyurethane in the dining room and this is the hallways, this looks so good and is holding up better than expected.

Question 4

what is the best way to apply this

Accepted Answer

Use a bristled brush. Those sponge brushes leave bubbles in it.

ASIN	B000C029ZM
Best Sellers Rank	569,382 in DIY & Tools ( See Top 100 in DIY & Tools ) 962 in Varnish
Brand	MINWAX
Compatible Material	Wood
Coverage	100 sq ft/8 fluid ounces
Customer Reviews	4.6 out of 5 stars 401 Reviews
Finish	Semi-Gloss
Finish type	Semi-Gloss
Global Trade Identification Number	00027426230057
Item Form	Liquid
Item Weight	0.6 Pounds
Item weight	0.6 Pounds
Liquid Volume	8 Fluid Ounces
Liquid volume	8 Fluid Ounces
Manufacturer	Minwax
Material	Polyurethane (PU)
Model Number	23005
Part Number	230054444
Recommended Uses For Product	household surface finishing
Recommended uses for product	household surface finishing
UPC	027426230057

Minwax Polyurethane Varnish

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