Instructions
All wood projects require preparation sanding. If you skip this critical step, your finish may fail.
Raw wood
See our video: How To Prep Sand New Wood
1. Sandno finer than 220 grit.
2. Remove dust.
New Stained Surface: Do not sand. Apply directly to the stained surface.
Pre-Finished Wood & Sealed Surfaces
See our video: How to PrepareExisting Finishes
- Scuff cleanwith a non-woven abrasive pad & 50:50 mix of denatured alcohol & water.
- Dry1-2 hours.
- Sandlightly with 220-320-grit sanding sponge.
- Remove Dust
Other Substrates: Interior MDF, HDF, & Masonite
Can be used with proper preparation & priming. Always test first.
Step 2. How to Apply General Finishes Enduro Clear Poly
CAUTION: Do NOT use GF Enduro Clear Polyor any other clear coat, over white or light paints such as GF Milk Paint, or GF White Poly as it may cause yellowing. Any clear coatcan become reactive over wood substrates or existing finishes causing tannin, stain or dye bleed-through. All of GF's White Paints, brushable or spray versions, do NOT require a topcoat.
Join the Enduro Wood Coating Pros Facebook Group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/endurowoodcoatingpros for customer support and learning opportunities specifically for General Finishes Pro line of Enduro products. This group is a great resource for guidance regarding choosing the right product, mastering finishing techniques, troubleshooting, or sharing your finished projects with other pros.
Download 2024 Professional Water Based Product Catalog here.
General Finishes Enduro Clear Poly Spray Application: Raw Wood & Sealed Surface
- Watch product overview video hereorcomparison of GF water based topcoats here.
- Work in a well-ventilated area.
- Stir thoroughly to reincorporate solids that have settled to the bottom of the can before and throughout the application process.
- Test for color & adhesion over existing sealed surfaces.
- Thinas desiredwith distilled water; start with 5%, addingup to 10% by volume.
- Increase open time, if needed, with 10-15% by volume ofGeneral Finishes Extenderif allowed by local regulations.GFExtender willimprove flow and leveling and increase open time, which is helpful in dry climates.California Residents:Adding more than 2% ofGF Extenderwill make the productsnon-compliant per SCAQMD Regulations. GF assumes no liability for the improper use of these products.
- Ready to spray from container. Wear NIOSH-approved respiratory and eye protection.
- Spray application: Before spraying, strain through a fine-mesh filter. Spray wet films at 3-5-mil thickness. Medium air cap.Compressed air: .040, HVLP: 1.1mm-1.3mm, Air-Assist Airless: 600 PSI pump, 20 PSI assist air, .011" tip or Airless: fine finish .007"-.011. Verify tip sizes with your equipment supplier.See our spray tip size recommendations here.Keep your gun at a 90°angle, 6-8" from the surface. On large, flat areas, use wet, even patterns 6-8" wide. For narrow surfaces, reduce the fan pattern to 2-3" wide to reduce overspray.Overlap each pass 25%to conceal lines. Wear a mask and work in a ventilated space. Read here for moreinformation on spraying techniques.
- Face frames: Enduro professional products are engineered to be spray-only but can be successfully applied successfully to cabinet face frames, edges or drawer fronts with a small cabinet-specific 3/8" nap microfiberroller such asWhizz or AllPro brand. Larger areas may not level with a roller application. Add 10-20% Extender for improved results.
- If a faster build is desired over raw wood, use General Finishes Sanding Sealer forthe first coat, followed by 2 coats of Clear Poly.
- Dry timebased onideal conditions: 70°F/21°C; 50% humidity.Tack free 5-10 minutes. Ready to sand 30-45 minutes. Recoat in 1-2 hours.Be sureto allow adequate dry time.You can tell if a water-based finish is dry if it forms a powder when lightly sanded with a 220-320 sanding sponge. If in doubt, wait longer. Rushing the dry time can cause "blush," which is clouding in the finish due to moisture trapped between the layers. Increase dry time if:
- Higher humidity
- Cooler temperatures
- 3+ coats are applied
- Thick coats are applied
- Applying over a sealed surface
- Applying over products from other brands
- Layering General Finishes water- and oil-based products:
- Water over oil: Let oil-based products dry 72+hr before applying water-basedproducts
- Oil over water: Let water-basedproducts dry 24+hr before applying oil-based products
- To accelerate dry time in humid conditions, add General Finishes Accelerator and work in a space with good ventilation and air movement. If you decide to re-coat before the recommended time, test dryness.
- Finish sand between coats with a 220-320 sanding sponge to improve smoothness and adhesion.
- Remove dust with a vacuum, compressed air, an oil-free tack cloth or a water-dampened rag.
- A topcoat is not required.
Tinting
We recommend using Colourfal Zero VOC colorants. Other colorant systems should be zero VOC, incorporated at the point of use, and tested thoroughly for performance before application. General Finishes will not be liable for in-can stability when other colorants are used.
Cure Time
Water-based finishes cure and harden for full use after 21 days in ideal conditions. Avoid placing heavy objects on surfaces that have not completely cured. Treat gently, and do not clean with commercial products during the curing period.
Warning
Do not use water-based products with Linseed Oils or Danish Oils.
Dry Time
Dry Time Based on ideal conditions of70°F 21°C; 50% humidity.
To touch: 30+ minutes
Recoat: 1+ hours
Be sureto allow adequate dry time.Dry times are dependent on application method and environmental conditions. You can tell if a water-based finish is dry if it forms a powder when lightly sanded with a fine-grade (220-320) foam sanding pad or 400-grit sandpaper. If in doubt, wait longer. Rushing the dry time can cause "blush," which is clouding in the finish due to moisture trapped between the layers.
Increase dry time if:
- Humidity is over 80%
- Temperatures are cooler.
- 3+ coats are applied
- Thick coats are applied
- Applying over an existing sealed finish
- Applying over products from other brands
- Layering General Finishes water- and oil-based products:
- Water over oil: Let oil-based products dry 72+hr before applying water-basedproducts
- Oil over water: Let water-basedproducts dry 24+hr before applying oil-based products
- To accelerate dry time in humid conditions, add General Finishes Accelerator and work in a space with good ventilation and air movement. If you decide to re-coat before the recommended time, test dryness.
As is true of most "water-white" topcoats, General Finishes water-based topcoats dry clear over non-reactive substrates, such as plastic or metal, exceptGeneral Finishes Enduro-Var, which ambers.When white paint sealed with a water-white topcoat is applied to something as unpredictable as wood, all bets are off and the reason for yellowing is often unknown. It can be caused by topcoat activating tannins in raw wood or aniline dyes, stains, or contaminants in a pre-existing finish. This is most evident when using BRIGHT WHITE paint and most prevalent in sculpted details of furniturewhere the topcoat can collect, intensifying color change to an unacceptable level.
There is no reliable way to predict whether yellowing will occur and to what degree. Every existing finish is different and we rarely know the finishing provenance on an existing piece. Every tree is different and every piece of wood is unique. Raw wood can bleed tanninsimmediately after the topcoat dries or months later with seasonal temperature changes. Oak, pine, mahogany, and Douglasfir are particularly prone to bleed-through.
Summary
- Whites have a lower “hide” quality and are more transparent than most other colors. Nearly all bright whites require additional coats to achieve the desired color and minimize color variation. This can increase the cost of paint finishing. Always include a clause in your contracts addressing the need for additional coats to achieve coverage.
- All bright white paint will yellow slightly with time, with or without topcoat. You have probably tried to touch up white woodwork in your home after several years and noticed the new paint is brighter.
- The underlying finish or wood species can affect the final color of light paint.
- Details and inside corners are difficult to cover with any paint color, but it tends to be more noticeable with whites. This is a naturally occurring phenomenon in paint application and does not necessarily constitute a defect in the paint finish or your technique.
- The more porous the paint, such as a chalk paint,the more likely that yellowing will occur. The topcoat is seeping through the spaces caused by the larger particles of filler that give Chalk Paints their texture.
Tips to Prevent Yellowing
- If it is a low-use project, use a premium white paint that is self-sealing and does not require a topcoat. A clear topcoat is not required on General Finishes Milk Paint for increased durability, as it is a self-sealing, exterior-rated coating with high durability and chemical and water resistance. However, topcoats do provide a smoothsurface that is easier to clean and boosts durability for high-use projects, such as tabletops and kitchen cabinets.
- Usea professional product such as General Finishes Enduro White Poly. It has "increased topcoat properties," is a standalone finish when 3 coats are applied, and does not require sealing with a topcoat.
- We recommend using General Finishes Stain Blocker, an engineered chemical barrier, to preventpersistent bleed-through for interior-use projects.
- Stain Blocker does not adhere to melamine cabinet veneers.
- Stain Blocker cannot be tinted.
- Always test your project's ENTIRE finishing schedule (from cleaning to topcoat) on an inside door or a more hidden area of the piece. This will not help if the yellowing occurs later, but at least you will know if there is an immediate problem.
- Avoid paintingperiod furniture, such as a 1940s serpentine mahogany desk, with light colors. Thepieces were often finished in stain that contained aniline dyes, which cast a pinkish bleed-through under light paint. Not every piece of furniture is suitable for upcycling with a light paint color. Pine, mahogany, and furniture of the 1940s and 50s are a red flag.
- Last, not all manufacturers' topcoats are compatible with other finishes and may react with a color change. Always follow best practices by not rushing, and testing to your satisfaction first.
Knots
Knots in wood tend to bleed and are dense, making paint and stain adhesion a challenge. Stain Blocker may improve adhesion and prevent bleed-through for painting projects.Pine knots are especially difficult to cover with white or light paints. If you decide to paint over them, apply 3 coats of Stain Blocker first; however, we cannot guarantee adhesion or bleed-through blockage. You are better off using a dark paint on pine.
Cleanup of Water Based Products
Application tools and materialscontaining water-based products can be cleanedwith soap and water or General Finishes immediately after use.
Product Spills
Spills may be able to be removed from fabric and carpet if cleaned immediately with soap and water.
Disposal
Discard unused product and waste in an environmentally safe manner; check with local fire and health regulation.
Storage of Water Based Products
Life of Product
General Finishes products do not last forever, even when unopened. They are best used within 1 year. The life of the product may be extended with proper can closure and storage conditions. (see Storage Tips below).
Water-based products canlast 3-5 years ifthe can is unopened, in good conditionand stored in correct temperatures.
Product that is 3 years old will not look like product that is 6 months to 1 year old. You will see more stratificationorseparation as the product ages. Settling is natural. Always stirthoroughly before using.
FoulSmell
If your producthas a foul smell, itis contaminated andno longer in useablecondition.
Clumps & Settling
Gravity can cause some solids to settle on the bottom of the can and slight separation on the top. This is normal. If working with older productstir with apaint mixing attachment on a drill.
If the solids dissolve and clumps smooth out after mixing from the bottom, the product is in good condition for use.
Inability to reincorporate large, chunky lumps afterstirring for several minutesis an indication that the product has frozen and can no longer be used.
Storage Tips
See video tutorial: Tips on Storing Leftover Finishes
Water-based finishes crystalize and form a skindue to evaporation when the air-tight seal on a can is broken at first use. The following best practices will increase the life of your product:
- Pry open sealed lids with a paint can opener by hooking under the lid's rolled edge. The use of a screwdriver can disfigure the rim and lid, impairing a complete seal.
- Keep lid closed while working. Pour what you will use into a bowl, paper cup, or plate, and close can lid as you work.
- Clean the chime of the canthoroughly with a paper towel before closing to create a completeseal. Product fallinginto the chime canbe minimized by using a pouring lid, such as Fitsall. Avoid wiping used brushes on the lid.
- Pound the lid in placeusing a rubber mallet to avoid distorting the chime or lid. Dents in the lid from direct contact with a hammer can impair a complete seal. Alternatively, place a flat piece of wood over can lid and firmly pound shut.
- Store in moderate temperatures.Avoid temperatures below 50°F/10°C or above 100°F/26°C. Keep from freezing. Frozen and heat-damaged product cannot be revitalized. Temperature-controlled spaces, such as a basement, are ideal for storage. Do not store product in an attic, garage, in direct sunlight, or next to something warm like a water heater or furnace.
- Store can upside down to create a liquid seal, minimize evaporation and reduce the chance ofcrystallization.Decant remaining product from the can before stirring.
- Decant leftovers to a smaller container when thefinish is almost used up. Alternative storage containers for water-based products are plastic FIFO bottles or glass bottles. Do not fill metal-lidded containers completely to prevent them from rusting.
The following water-based product mixturescan be stored:
- Product thinned with up to 15% General Finishes Extender or General FinishesAccelerator can be stored, with the exception of thinnedGeneral Finishes Water Based Wood Stain.
- Mixtures involving colors & sheens within the same product line, such as:
- High Performance Satin + High Performance Gloss
- Snow White Milk Paint + Coastal Blue Milk Paint
- Amber Dye Stain + Merlot Dye Stain
The following product mixturesshould NOT be stored:
- Any water based product with thinned tap water; water often contains bacteria that will adversely affect stored paint.
- Topcoat + Stain or Paint
- Milk Paint + Chalk Style Paint
- Water Based Wood Stain + Dye Stain
Furniture Care and Maintenance
Cure First
You have just finished applying a fine furniture finish. Treat gently until the paint or topcoat have fully cured. Allow 21 days for a water-basedfinish to cure and 30 days for an oil-based finish to cure before cleaning.
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
- Remove dustwith a water-dampened cloth. Dust can build up over time and may scratch or dull finishes if not removed regularly.
- Remove fingerprints, cooking fumes and smoking residue with mild soap and water. These contaminants will not harm the finish, but they accumulate on surfaces and dull the original luster.
- As with all fine furniture finishes, avoid usingfurniture polish, cleaners or dusting sprays that contain silicone, alcohol, ammonia and anything acidic.Exception: We have successfully cleaned with Clorox wipes for occasional cleanups.
- Clean up water, alcohol and food spills in a timely manner and use placemats & coasters toprotect the finish.
- Future finishes or touch-ups may not adhere properly or perform as desired over a contaminated surface.Some contaminants, such as silicone, seep through finish into the wood and often cannot be removed.
- Avoid excessive exposure to direct sunlight, high temperaturesor high humidity. Thesecan damage furniture and finishes.
Compatibility
Do not use water-based products with Linseed Oils or Danish Oils.
Limited Warranty
General Finishes products must be tested to your complete satisfaction before using. General Finishes will not be responsible for color satisfaction, misapplication, nor compatibility with other manufacturers' products. General Finishes will be responsible only for the cost of our products, and not for costs such as labor, damage or project replacement.
Contamination and Compatibility
Our finishes are engineered as a system and are compatible with each other. General Finishes cannot guarantee an ideal refinish when applying our products on top of or combined with another company's products or over surfaces that have been in contact with waxes, polishes or sprays containing contaminants such as silicone. Test for adherence and aesthetics before beginning.
Warning
If you scrape, sand, or remove old paint, you may release lead dust. LEAD IS TOXIC. EXPOSURE TO LEAD DUST CAN CAUSE SERIOUS ILLNESS, SUCH AS BRAIN DAMAGE, ESPECIALLY IN CHILDREN. PREGNANT WOMEN SHOULD ALSO AVOID EXPOSURE. Wear a NIOSH-approved respirator to control lead exposure. Clean up carefully with a HEPA vacuum and a wet mop. Before you start, find out how to protect yourself and your family by contacting the National Lead Information Hotline at 1-800-424-LEAD or log onto www.epa.gov/lead.
FIRST AID:
Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms occur due to the following. EYE CONTACT: Remove any contact lenses. Flush eyes with water for 20+ minutes while lifting upper and lower eyelids. SKIN CONTACT: Wash thoroughly after handling. INHALATION: Move to fresh air and loosen clothing. If not breathing, if breathing is irregular or if respiratory arrest occurs, provide artificial respiration or oxygen by trained personnel. INGESTION: Call physician immediately. Wash out mouth with water. Do not induce vomiting unless directed to do so by medical personnel. Never give anything by mouth to an unconscious person.
Warning
This product contains a chemical known to the State Of California to cause cancer and birth defects. Do not swallow; first aid: drink water to dilute product. May cause eye or skin irritation; first aid: flush eyes thoroughly with water.
Warning
Keep out of reach of children. Avoid contact with eyes. Keep container tightly closed when not in use. Wash thoroughly after handling.
PERSONAL PROTECTION DURING USE:
Hand protection
Chemical-resistant, impervious gloves complying with an approved standard should be worn when handling chemical products if a risk assessment indicates this is necessary. Considering the parameters specified by the glove manufacturer, check during use that the gloves still retain their protective properties. It should be noted that the time to breakthrough for any glove material may differ for different manufacturers. In the case of mixtures, consisting of several substances, the protection time of the gloves cannot be accurately estimated.
Eye protection:Safety eyewear complying with an approved standard should be used when a risk assessment indicates this is necessary to avoid exposure to liquid splashes, mists, gases, or dust. If contact is possible, the following protection should be worn unless the assessment indicates a higher degree of protection: safety glasses with side shields.
Respiratory protection:
Based on the hazard and potential for exposure, select a respirator that meets the appropriate standard or certification. Respirators must be used according to a respiratory protection program to ensure proper fitting, training, and other important use aspects.
Body protection Personal protective equipment for the body should be selected based on the amount and repetition of exposure. It should be approved by a specialist before handling this product.
Environmental exposure controls:
Emissions from ventilation or work process equipment should be checked to ensure they comply with the requirements of environmental protection legislation.
Appropriate engineering controls:
Good general ventilation should be sufficient to control worker exposure to airborne contaminants.
Hygiene measures:
Wash hands, forearms, and face thoroughly after handling chemical products, before eating, smoking, and using the lavatory, and at the end of the working period. Appropriate techniques should be used to remove potentially contaminated clothing. Wash contaminated clothing before reusing. Ensure that eyewash stations and safety showers are close to the workstation location.
Other skin protection: Appropriate footwear and any additional skin protection measures should be selected based on the task being performed.
Specifications
| Basic Features | |
|---|---|
| Product Colors | Water White in can (dries clear) |
| Base Type | Water |
| Ambering | No |
| Sheen | Dead Flat (<5), Flat (10 or less), Satin (25-35), Semi-Gloss (50-60), Gloss (80+) |
| Interior or Exterior | Interior only |
| Tintable | Yes |
| Type | Urethane/Acrylic Blend |
| Application | |
| Coats | 3 coats |
| Application Method | Spray |
| Brushable | No |
| Usable over existing finishes | Yes |
| Sprayable | Yes |
| Spray Tip Sizes | HVLP 1.1mm-1.3mm |
| Air-Assist Airless | 375 PSI pump, 20 PSI assist air, .011"-.013" tip |
| Airless | Fine Finish .007" - .011" |
| Topcoat Required | Self-Sealing |
| Dry Time | |
| Dry Time - Touch | 30+ min. |
| Dry Time - Recoat | 1+ hr |
| Dry Time - Light Use | 7-10 days |
| Dry Time - Cure | 21 days |
| Contents | |
| Can Sizes | Gallons, 5 Gallon pails, 55 Gallon drums |
| Coverage | 450 sq.ft. (41.81 m²) per Gallon |
| Technical Data | |
| Viscosity | Medium |
| Viscosity (cPs) | 350-450 |
| Solids by Weight and Volume | Solids by Weight Dead Flat: 33% Flat: 33% Satin: 29% Semi-Gloss: 28% Gloss: 29% Solids by Volume |
| VOC | US VOC Dead Flat: < 250 g/L Flat: < 250 g/L Satin: < 250 g/L Semi-Gloss: < 250 g/L Gloss: < 250 g/L |
| Durability | |
| Durability (Highest, High, Medium, Low) | High |
| Hardness (Koenig #) | 100 |
| Wear (Taber #) | 35.70 mg loss |
| Water (5 max) | 5 |
| Chemical (105 max) | 98 |
SDS/TDS
Technical Data Sheet
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TDS: Enduro Clear Poly - 2023-02 (1.18 MB)
SDS
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SDS: ENGLISH Enduro Clear Poly DEAD FLAT Water-Base - 2024-04 (626 KB)
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SDS: FRENCH Enduro Clear Poly DEAD FLAT Water-Base - 2024-04 (663 KB)
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SDS: ENGLISH Enduro Clear Poly FLAT Water-Base - 2024-04 (631 KB)
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SDS: FRENCH Enduro Clear Poly FLAT Water-Base - 2024-04 (664 KB)
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SDS: ENGLISH Enduro Clear Poly GLOSS Water-Base - 2024-04 (630 KB)
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SDS: FRENCH Enduro Clear Poly GLOSS Water-Base - 2024-04 (663 KB)
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SDS: ENGLISH Enduro Clear Poly SATIN Water-Base - 2024-04 (630 KB)
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SDS: FRENCH Enduro Clear Poly SATIN Water-Base - 2024-04 (664 KB)
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SDS: ENGLISH Enduro Clear Poly SEMI-GLOSS Water-Base - 2024-04 (631 KB)
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SDS: FRENCH Enduro Clear Poly SEMI-GLOSS Water-Base - 2024-04 (664 KB)
Brochures
Professional Brochures
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CATALOG: Professional Water Based Products General Finishes 2024-05 (3.64 MB)
Videos
Comparison of General Finishes Water-Based Top Coats
FAQs
General Finishes water-based products can be sprayed through compressed air, HVLP, airless or C.A.S. units. DOWNLOAD SPRAY TIP CHART PDF All surfaces should be clean and free from dirt and oil and sanded. Indicated below are instructional videos we have for preparing a surface for a new coat of paint or finish: All General Finishes water-based topcoats and wood stains are ready to spray from the container without additives with the exception of Conversion Varnish. Always strain material through a medium to fine mesh filter before spraying. If necessary, in hot or dry climates, reduce 10 to 15% with General Finishes Extender to extend the open time. Softwoods such as Pine absorb stain at an uneven rate and may respond better to staining if the wood is pre-sealed. General Finishes Pre-Stain Conditioner Natural can be applied to raw wood to condition the surface for uniform penetration of the stain. Pre-sealing will cause the final stain to be lighter so you may need to use a darker color. Always test your color on a hidden part of the furniture. Allow the Pre-Stain Conditioner to dry 30 minutes before applying your final stain color. If you are using a sprayer that has been used for oil-based or lacquers, clean the unit thoroughly with acetone followed with hot water to purge the fluid passage. Apply a thin coat first that will dry and harden faster. Sand this first coat down to a smooth base on which to build your finish coats with a 220-320 grade foam sanding pad or #400-grit sandpaper. It is better to spray 2 thin coats rather than 1 heavy coat. Contact your supplier to verify proper tip sizes for your specific equipment. GF's general recommended fluid tips for Wood Stains and Top Coats are Compressed air - .040 and Airless - .009. DOWNLOAD SPRAY TIP CHART PDF This PDF lists general guidelines for several different types of sprayers with specific General Finishes product recommendations for HVLP listed below. Air caps should be medium size. Contact your supplier to verify proper tip sizes for your specific equipment. Break your work into sections such as dresser top or drawer fronts. Spraying too large of an area can result in a textured grainy surface. A correctly sprayed finish should appear even and glossy. It is important to spray enough material to allow proper flow and leveling of the finish. Spray medium wet films at 3-5 wet ml thickness. Practice makes perfect. If you have never sprayed finishes before, take a large piece of cardboard and practice your technique first. Spray water on the cardboard to learn how the gun works. Check your fluid settings and adjust the controls to get comfortable with the spray angles and to develop your technique. Keep your gun at a 90* angle, 6-8" from the surface. On large flat areas, use wet, even patterns 6 to 8 wide. For narrow surfaces, reduce the fan pattern to 2-3" to reduce overspray. For topcoats, overlap each pass 25% to conceal lines. Watch our video how to spray water-based topcoats here. Keep your gun at a 90* angle, 6-8" from the surface. On large flat areas, use wet, even patterns 6 to 8 wide. For narrow surfaces, reduce the fan pattern to 2-3" to reduce overspray. Overlap each pass of stain 50% for even coverage and wipe back the excess with an absorbent cloth. For narrow surfaces, reduce the fan pattern to 2-3" to reduce overspray. Keep your gun at a 90* angle, 6-8" from the surface. On large flat areas, use wet, even patterns 6 to 8 wide. For narrow surfaces, reduce the fan pattern to 2-3" to reduce overspray. Overlap each pass of stain 50% for even coverage. If coverage is even, there is no need to wipe. If you have issues with uneven coverage, wipe back the excess with an absorbent cloth. For narrow surfaces, reduce the fan pattern to 2-3" to reduce overspray. Enduro Professional Water-Based Clear Poly Enduro Professional Water-Based Pre-Cat Lacquer Enduro Professional Water-Based White Poly Enduro-Var II Water-Based Urethane Topcoat Flat Out Flat Water Based Top Coat High Performance Water Based Polyurethane Topcoat *How Do I Spray Water Based Finishes?
SURFACE PREPARATION:
SPRAY APPLICATION OF GENERAL FINISHES WATER-BASED FINISHES:
PRE SEALING:
RECOMMENDED TIPS FOR GENERAL FINISHES PRODUCTS USING HVLP:
SPRAYING TOPCOATS:
SPRAYING WATER BASED WOOD STAINS:
SPRAYING WATER BASED DYE STAINS:
Related Categories
Related Products
Water-based products do not last forever, even when unopened. General Finishes products are best used within 1 year of the manufacture date listed on the bottom of the can. The life of the product may be extended to 2-3 years with proper care and storage. Gravity can cause some solids to settle on the bottom of the can and slight separation on the top. This is normal. If working with older paint, use a paint mixing attachment on a drill. If the solids dissolve and clumps smooth out after mixing from the bottom, the product is in good condition for use. See video tutorial: Tips on Storing Leftover Finishes The following water-based product mixtures can be stored: The following product mixtures should NOT be stored: *What Is the Best Way to Store Water Based Finishes?
LIFE OF PRODUCT
SETTLING
STORAGE TIPS
Water-based finishes crystalize and form a skin due to evaporation when the air-tight seal on a can is broken at first use. The following best practices will increase the life of your product:Related Categories
Yes! Enduro Clear Poly in Dead Flat can be tinted in the same way as other sheens. The color may be softer, but it can be done. As always, we recommend that you test on a hidden area of your project or a test board to make sure you are happy with the result before starting your project. Can the Dead Flat sheen of Enduro Clear Poly be tinted?
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GF recommends using the least expensive product that will provide the needed performance characteristics. We offer a range of products designed for professional spray applications and brush-on finishes for consumer use. Compare all GF Topcoats Here Watch Video: Comparison of All GF Water Based Finishes Here Looking for hardness, clarity and fast stack time? Pre Cat Lacquer is the choice. Use in applications where there is little risk of chemical contamination issues from substances such as ketchup, soap, chemical cleaners, or ammonia. This is the perfect spray finish for interior doors, casing, moldings, door jambs and furniture that receives light use. When you think about it, interior doors don't take a lot of wear. You might wipe them down or dust them once in a while but that is about it. PreCat Lacquer is a hard finish that provides excellent build and superior clarity at a phenomenal price point. If you are not finishing a surface such as a tabletop where you anticipate chemical contamination during use, why pay for a more expensive finish? Dries clear. Watch Pre Cat Lacquer Product Overview Video Here Poly is the go-to cabinet finish. It has all the durability you need at a lower price point than Conversion Varnish. It is similar to High Performance in test measurements for chemical, water and wear resistance, but HP can be brushed and Clear Poly can't - it is already thinned for spraying. Clear Poly has a bit of an edge over High Performance in overall chemical resistance, a 98 rating vs 92. Dries clear. Watch Clear Poly product overview video here This is our top of the line. Conversion Varnish is a post catalyzed high solids, two component urethane formulated for professionals who need the highest level of durability and chemical resistance. Varnish will cure the fastest. Requires NCO Catalyst. It is recommended for commercial applications or extremely high-wear surfaces such as countertops and bar tops Dries clear. Watch Conversion Varnish Product Overview Video Here For today's professional, industrial and OEM users, water-based Tintable 2K Clear Polyurethane is formulated to stop your biggest frustrations and provide ultimate durability for interior/exterior use. Key features are easy application, fast film build & production time, excellent adhesion, plus optimum water & chemical resistance. Dries clear. Watch 2K Clear Poly Product Overview Video Here General Finishes Enduro Pro Series Clear Polyurethane is a single-component, self-cross linking polyurethane/acrylic topcoat designed for fast build with excellent flow and leveling. Priced competitively for the professional and industrial markets, Pro Series Clear is tintable and meets or exceeds KCMA standards. Recommended use is interior cabinets, trim, doors, and furniture. Use over raw, stained, or primed wood substrates. Dries clear. GF's best performing brush on finish with very similar performance testing as our Poly. (High Performance can be thinned for spraying). Dries clear. Watch High Performance Product Overview Video Here Flat Out Flat is formulated with a self cross-linking acrylic, and is designed to mimic the look and feel of a wax finish. Because of the increased matting agents used to create the "Flat look", this finish will have less clarity. Like wax, it dries softer to the touch than High Performance when completely cured, and will show more fingerprints. FOF finish will mark up more easily because of increased matting agents used to reduce the sheen, so it is not recommended for high-use tabletops. Dries clear. Watch Flat Out Flat Product Overview Video Here Enduro-Var II is an oil modified water-based alternative for customers that want the warm look of an oil finish in a water based coating. It looks more like an oil finish than a water coating, and can be sprayed or brushed. The original Enduro-Var adheres well ONLY over WATER STAINS, DYE STAINS, and RAW WOOD. Use over other finishes at your own risk. The new formula of Enduro-Var II is compatible with all GF products and dries to a lighter amber than the previous formula. Dries Amber Watch Enduro-Var II Product Overview Video Here Exterior 450 provides a clear drying tough, protective finish that will withstand the rigors of the sun, rain, and wind. It is suitable for vertical surfaces such as fences, patio furniture, garage doors, entrance doors, outdoor kitchens and interior windows. It is not recommended as a deck finish. Fortified with UV absorbers to stabilize the finish, Exterior 450's built-in mildewcide retards mold and mildew growth. Dries Clear Watch Exterior 450 Topcoat Overview Video Here Enduro Professional Water-Based Clear Poly Enduro Professional Water-Based Conversion Varnish Enduro Professional Water-Based Pre-Cat Lacquer Enduro-Var II Water-Based Urethane Topcoat Exterior 450 Water-Based Clear Outdoor Topcoat Flat Out Flat Water Based Top Coat High Performance Water Based Polyurethane Topcoat How Do General Finishes Water Based Topcoats Differ?
PROFESSIONAL TOPCOATS
ENDURO PRE CAT LACQUER (Spray only)
ENDURO CLEAR POLY (Spray only)
ENDURO CONVERSION VARNISH (2K-Spray only)
Enduro 2K Clear Poly (Spray Only)
Enduro Pro Series Clear Poly
RETAIL TOPCOATS
HIGH PERFORMANCE (Brush or Spray)
FLAT OUT FLAT (Brush or Spray)
BOTH PROFESSIONAL AND RETAIL TOPCOATS
ENDURO-VAR II (Spray or brush)
EXTERIOR 45O TOPCOAT
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Traditionally, flat topcoats were created by adding matting agents to gloss topcoat. These agents decreased the durability of the topcoat and produced a slight haze that reduced the vibrancy of an underlying stain or paint. Using newly patented polymer resin technology, matting agents are no longer required. Our new Dead Flat topcoats produce a brilliant clear finish while providing significant improvements to chemical, water and mar resistance. The new Dead Flat Matte sheen formula is available in theHigh PerformanceandClear Polylines. You can now achieve the look of our original Flat Out Flat while maintaining clarity and GF's high performance standards. How do you maintain clarity of a Dead Flat sheen over dark colors?
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Superior water-based Enduro Tintable 2K Polys made in Wisconsin for professional, industrial, and OEM users. We hope you try it out; you’ll like it. The term 2K references a product that is a 2-component polyurethane specifically catalyzed with Isocyanate to crosslink the polymer fully, which provides superior performance 1K coatings hardened PolyAzuradine or Carbodiiamide. To create Enduro Tintable 2K, General Finishes tested over 30 polymers, resins, and other ingredients sourced from around the world. These new coatings are engineered to prevent the biggest frustrations for today's professional, industrial and OEM users providing ultimate durability for interior/exterior use. General Finishes goes hard for great chemistry, so you don't have to worry when your clients are tough on the paint. Paired with Tintable 2K Clear Poly, you have a dynamic duo of 2 component finishes, the most durable interior/exterior coatings General Finishes has ever created. You can apply confidently, knowing that you are giving your customer the best the industry offers. Perfect for new or remodeled cabinets, furniture, woodwork, pre-primed steel, fiberglass, and exterior projects. Made in the U.S.A. KEY FEATURES Available in Flat, Satin, Semi-gloss, and Gloss Enduro Professional Water-Based Black Poly Enduro Professional Water-Based Clear Poly Enduro Professional Water-Based Pre-Cat Lacquer Enduro Water-Based White Undercoat What is the best, most durable paint for cabinets? Check out Water-Based Tintable 2K Clear and White Poly
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Enduro Clear Poly is designed for professionals that routinely spray their finishes. High Performance is formulated for the retail market so it can be sprayed or hand applied. Compare all General Finishes Topcoats in our comparison chart. Enduro Professional Water-Based Clear Poly High Performance Water Based Polyurethane Topcoat What is the difference between professional Enduro Clear Poly and High Performance Topcoat?
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Until now, Matte sheens always came with a compromise in durability. Consumers have been asking for an ultra-flat topcoat that is as durable as our other sheens, and we are finally able to deliver! Thanks to brand new patented polymer technology, we are now able to create a Matte sheen without waxes and matting agents that decrease durability. Defining Durability Flat: (degree sheen) Water Resistance: (max 5) Chemical Resistance: (0-100) Scratch Resistance and Marring: High Performance vs. Clear Poly Upgraded Features Warning: Do Not Mix! Leaders in Water-Based Finishing Innovation Ordering soon? Enduro Professional Water-Based Clear Poly High Performance Water Based Polyurethane Topcoat What makes GF's Dead Flat sheens different?
All of our testing shows High Performance Dead Flat is as durable as High Performance Satin, which is a drastic improvement over Flat Out Flat topcoat.
Flat Out Flat: <5
High Performance Dead Flat: <5
Flat Out Flat: 2
High Performance, Dead Flat: 4
Flat Out Flat: 82
High Performance, Dead Flat: 92
Scratch Resistance is strong with both products.
Marring is better than Flat Out Flat and comparable to the Satin and Flat.
The main differentiator between these products is that Clear Poly is a spray-only product and High Performance can be applied with a brush or sprayed. Clear Poly is popular among high production contractors but both products produce professional results.
Topcoat with a Dead Flat sheen CAN NOT be mixed with another sheen because a completely different polymer is used and the combined formulas will not perform well as one.
General Finishes actively works to improve our products on an ongoing basis. As new finishing technology is released, we test and experiment to stay on the leading edge. Our chemist travels around the world and is sent new ingredients when they are discovered on a regular basis. We are one of the rare companies capable of incorporating new innovations and ingredients into our products, no expense spared, because of our dedication to staying on the leading edge and providing the highest quality product on the market.
High Performance Dead Flat is available in pints, quarts and gallons. Clear Poly Dead Flat is available in gallons. 5-gallon pails may be delayed due to label production and Canadian labels are pending translations.Related Categories
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General Finishes offers a complete coatings system with a finish for every objective. Compare all topcoats Arm-R-Seal Urethane Wipe-On Topcoat Enduro Professional Water-Based Clear Poly Enduro Professional Water-Based Conversion Varnish Enduro Professional Water-Based Pre-Cat Lacquer Enduro Professional Water-Based Tintable 2K Clear Poly Enduro Professional Water-Based Tintable 2K White Poly Enduro Water-Based Pro Series Clear Polyurethane Enduro Water-Based Pro Series White Polyurethane Enduro-Var II Water-Based Urethane Topcoat Exterior 450 Water-Based Clear Outdoor Topcoat Flat Out Flat Water Based Top Coat Gel Topcoat: Oil Based Urethane High Performance Water Based Polyurethane Topcoat Which Topcoat Should I Choose?
General Finishes Professional, Industrial, and OEM Water-Based Topcoats
General Finishes Retail Water-Based Topcoats:
General Finishes Exterior Water-Based Topcoats:
General Finishes Oil-Based Topcoats
GENERAL PRACTICE:
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- Enduro Professional Water-Based White Poly
- Enduro Professional Water-Based Pre-Cat Lacquer
- Enduro Professional Water-Based Conversion Varnish
- Enduro Professional Water-Based Tintable 2K Clear Poly
