Wipe-on Poly

[Stuntflyer]

I see that quite a few builders are using wipe-on poly. What does it actually do in the finishing process and is it usually applied before staining? Details appreciated.

[JeffT]

Wipe-on poly is a protective finish that would be applied after staining. On the other hand, its nice to paint over so I apply it to unfinished wood and then paint.

[Stuntflyer]

By "paint " do you mean colors like red, white, etc?

 

I don't exactly remember but I thought I read that someone put it on before stain. To me, that seemed unusual in that it would block the stain from being absorbed into the wood.

[JeffT]

Yes, paint colors. Once the wood is prepped I apply the poly and paint after. It makes a nice smooth finish. I don't think its possible to stain after applying poly as it would prevent the wood from absorbing the stain.

[Stuntflyer]

Thanks. That what I thought as well. . .Coming from a modeling background using "dope" for finishes, we always had to blanket cover the wood with silver or gray first when painting colors like white, yellow or red. This prevented having to shoot heavy coats in order to get good coverage. Weight was always an issue too. Do the acrylic type paints from Badger and others cover that much better so as to not need a primer or blanket coat first?

[JeffT]

I haven't used primer over the poly. I just paint over the poly. Usually two coats is enough with badger paint.