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General Finishes is often asked about product cans. Why do they rust? Why aren't they made of plastic? Here is the backstory:

During the supply-line shortages caused by Covid, we are thrilled to have any cans for our paints, stains, and topcoats.

The separation is a condition the paint industry calls "float." This is typical with specific colors, such as grays, because of the large variance in the gravities of the pigments required to create those colors. In gray, for instance, Ti02 (white) is 3.4 and black is 1.62. The lower density will float.

This phenomenon will not occur in colors with less variance in densities. Float is not unique to General Finishes products.

GF has two products that would work well.

For non-professional finishers, we recommend using General Finishes Arm-R-Seal Topcoat.

Usually not but not all water based products respond the same way to a freeze. Most stains will be fine because freezing doesn't affect color. Some of the dyes will coagulate.

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 to reincorporate the solids. If the solids dissolve and the clumps smooth out after mixing from the bottom, the product is in good condition. 

If your water based product has large chunks that cannot be incorporated by stirring, the product has frozen and can no longer be used.

Yes, they can, but be sure to stay within a manufacturer's finishing system and not mix product from different brands.

1. In General Finishes line you can add up to 20% Gel Stain or Oil Base Stain to Arm-R-Seal to deepen the color for toning purposes.
2. Simply stir the stain into the topcoat.
3. Keep stirring during application as solids will settle very quickly when mixed into an oil urethane-based finish.
4. Be sure to test in a hidden area before proceeding with your entire project.