Applying Arm-R-Seal: How Many Coats Are Enough?

Arm-R-Seal is a wipe-on topcoat that provides long-lasting and durable protection. It is made with a high-quality urethane resin, which makes it extremely durable and long-lasting. The recommended number of coats is three, and no more than three coats are recommended. However, some users have reported using up to 28 coats for a glass-smooth finish.

The recommended number of coats of Arm-R-Seal is three

The first coat of Arm-R-Seal often looks blotchy, but the second coat clears this up, and the third coat should dry perfectly. The number of coats can vary depending on how the finish is applied and how the wood was prepared. For example, wood that has been thoroughly sanded will require fewer coats than rougher wood.

If you are using Arm-R-Seal to fill pores, you can apply multiple thin coats, sanding with fine-grit sandpaper between each one. This method takes a lot of time and patience, but it can result in a glass-smooth finish without damaging the wood's surface with sandpaper.

It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions when applying Arm-R-Seal. For example, they recommend allowing the finish to dry for 2-3 days between coats, which is longer than the minimum time stated on the can.

Additional coats will not improve durability

Additional coats of Arm-R-Seal will not improve the durability of the finish. The manufacturer recommends applying three coats of the product. If you are using the finish to fill pores, you may need to apply more coats. However, this is not the intended use of the product.

The finish should be applied liberally, with a foam brush or roller

When applying Arm-R-Seal, it is recommended to use a liberal amount of the product with a foam brush or roller. This will help you avoid streaks caused by back-brushing and pressure. The Arm-R-Seal finish is thin, and the flatting agents used to create flatter sheens settle quickly at the bottom of the can, so it is important to stir the finish thoroughly and often throughout the application process.

If you are using a foam brush, you will want to apply the finish liberally and use smooth, even strokes with light pressure, wiping off the excess finish with the grain of the wood. This will help you achieve a smooth and even finish. It is also important to note that Arm-R-Seal is an oil-based finish and will amber over time, so it should only be used over raw wood or dark paints.

The finish can be thinned with up to 10% mineral spirits

Arm-R-Seal is a wipe-on urethane topcoat that can be used to finish wood projects. It is made with high-quality urethane resin, which makes it durable and long-lasting. The finish is thin and penetrates the wood to provide deep-down protection while giving it a natural look.

The Arm-R-Seal finish rarely needs thinning due to its low viscosity. However, if desired, it can be thinned with up to 10% mineral spirits, unless restricted by local or state regulations. Thinning the finish will make it easier to apply and can be done without risking separation.

To thin the Arm-R-Seal finish, simply add mineral spirits to the finish in a ratio of up to 10%. Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure that the mineral spirits and finish are evenly combined. Once mixed, the thinned finish can be applied to your wood project following the manufacturer's instructions.

It is important to note that thinning the Arm-R-Seal finish may affect its coverage and drying time. Therefore, it is recommended to test the thinned finish on a small area before applying it to your entire project.

The finish should be applied over a sealed surface

When applying the finish over a sealed surface, it is important to test for adhesion. The finish rarely needs thinning, but if desired, it can be thinned with up to 10% mineral spirits.

The finish should be applied in three coats, with no more than three coats recommended. Additional coats will not improve durability. The finish should be applied liberally with a cotton cloth, foam brush, or staining pad using smooth, even strokes and light lap lines. The finish should be wiped off evenly with the grain and with light pressure using a cloth or high-quality absorbent paper towel.

It is important to avoid heavy pressure and back-brushing, especially when using Satin Arm-R-Seal, as there are increased flatting agents needed to create a satin sheen. Semi-gloss and gloss sheens are easier to apply as there are little to no flatting agents.

The finish should be sanded between coats with a 320-grit or finer sanding sponge or '0000' steel wool to improve smoothness and adhesion.

Frequently asked questions