There needs to be 3 coats of Polyurethane applied, especially if you are using an oil-based finish.
The first coat should be mixed with mineral spirits.
This acts as a sealer and provides a barrier between the wood and the oil finish you are using.
A bristle brush is needed to apply the coats.
Do you sand the final coat of polyurethane?
Polyurethane Finish Tip#1: Start With a Thick Coating
Sand lightly with 240-grit sandpaper between coats, then let the last coat dry for at least 24 hours. This is standard practice with any wood finishing job, and is nothing out of the ordinary.
How long does Polyurethane take to cure on table?
Polyurethane takes 30 days to fully cure. It needs to be at about 70 degrees to cure properly within those 30 days. 50 degrees is pretty low and will retard curing fully within the 30 days.
Is two coats of polyurethane enough?
Cars have multiple coats of paint to protect the body; you paint your walls with multiple coats to ensure even coverage; you poly furniture with multiple coats to ensure durability. Don’t sand to much. Use a very fine grit and just rub over it. The grit should feel like loose leaf paper.
