Site Search Results

Arm-R-Seal Urethane Wipe-On Topcoat

General Finishes Satin Arm-R-Seal Oil Based Topcoat, Quart

Arm-R-Seal Oil-Based Topcoats are made with the highest-quality urethane resin, making them extremely durable and long-lasting. Formulated to be wiped on with a cloth or applied with a foam brush, this ambering finish penetrates to provide deep-down protection for that "natural" look.

Organic Wood Table Finished with General Finishes Arm-R-Seal Urethane Topcoat

raw edge table refinished with general finishes arm-r-seal

Post Date

Mon, 11/18/2013 - 12:00

This organic, original wood table was finished with General Finishes

Can oil based urethane topcoats be tinted with oil stain for use as a toner?

General Finishes Arm-R-Seal Urethane Top Coat

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

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.
Simply stir the stain into the topcoat.
Keep stirring during application as solids will settle very quickly when mixed into an oil urethane-based finish.
Be sure to test in a hidden area before proceeding with your entire project.

Seal-A-Cell Oil Based Sealer

General Finishes Clear Oil Based Seal-a-Cell, Quart

An unusual combination of oils, urethanes, and wax, Seal-A-Cell Clear has served craftsman for decades as the best wipe-on clear coat to get that "natural" look on beautiful woods. The oils penetrate deep into the wood to highlight the figure of the wood, and the urethane ensures durability.

*What is the Best Topcoat to Use over Gel Stains?

Gel Stains (Oil Based)

You can use any of our topcoats.

*What Topcoat Should I Use on Padauk Wood?

Arm-R-Seal Technique Tips

We recommend an oil-based finish such as General Finishes Arm-R-Seal.

Oily woods can be tricky with any topcoat. The high oil content affects the drying process of the finish coats and Padauk has a very high oil content. Sometimes oily woods dry fine and sometimes they take weeks.

Best Clear Finish for Wood: Enhancing Wood Grain & Color

general finishes arm-r-sweal oil and urethane top coat satin

Post Date

Tue, 04/08/2014 - 12:00

Make your wood finishing project's grain really "POP" by layering oil & water-based products together, resulting in enhanced natural wood grain and character.

*Can An Oil Based Topcoat Such as Arm-R-Seal Be Thinned?

Arm-R-Seal

Although Arm-R-Seal rarely needs thinning because of its low viscosity, it can be thinned with up to 10% mineral spirits - more than that may thin the solids content too much.

Thinned Arm-R-Seal will be diluted but can be stored without risk of separation.

*Why did my remaining Arm-R-seal thicken in the can?

Arm-R-Seal Storing Finishes

Oil-based topcoats are "oxidizing" products which means that the moment it is introduced to oxygen, a chemical reaction will cause the finish to begin to harden. As topcoat is used, the empty space in the can is filled with air, furthering the curing process.

Tips to ensure your Arm-R-Seal remains in great working condition:

*How Important is the "Hardness" of a Wood Finish?

Water Based Topcoats Technique Tips

The hardness properties of a wood finish are formulated around the objectives of use. A hard finish is desirable on projects that get heavy wear such as kitchen cabinets or table tops.

But in other situations, such as an outdoor topcoat, a desired property of the finish is elongation, which allows the topcoat to expand and contract through different extremes of temperature.