Choose the Perfect Polyurethane for Your Kitchen Cabinets – 2023 Guide

Giving your kitchen cabinets a fresh coat of polyurethane is one of the best ways to restore and protect them. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the right polyurethane for your needs?

An Overview of Using Polyurethane for Kitchen Cabinets

Polyurethane is a clear, protective finish that is commonly used on wood surfaces like cabinets and floors. It contains resins that when dry, create a plastic-like coating that is highly durable.

There are two main types of polyurethane for home use - oil-based and water-based. Oil-based polyurethane provides superior protection compared to water-based, but it takes longer to dry, has a strong odor, and can yellow over time.

Applying a fresh coat of polyurethane to your cabinets is a great way to restore their color and sheen while also protecting them from everyday wear and tear. The polyurethane soaks into the pores of the wood, acting as a barrier against moisture, spills, and scratches.

Prep Work for Polyurethane

Properly preparing your cabinets is crucial before applying any type of finish. First, thoroughly clean the surfaces with a degreasing agent to remove any dirt, grime or existing oils.

Next, sand the cabinets with 220-grit sandpaper to rough up the surface and allow the polyurethane to adhere properly. Wipe away any dust with a tack cloth.

Priming first with an oil-based primer can also improve adhesion and provide extra moisture protection.

Comparing Oil-Based vs. Water-Based Polyurethane

When it comes to choosing a polyurethane, one of the biggest decisions is oil-based versus water-based. Let's take a look at the pros and cons of each.

Oil-Based Polyurethane

Oil-based polyurethanes contain natural oils such as tung oil or linseed oil along with resins and solvents. The oil allows the finish to penetrate deeper into the wood grain for enhanced protection.

Pros:

• Very durable, long-lasting finish
• Provides a warm, amber sheen

Cons:

• Prone to yellowing over time
• Long dry time between coats (up to 24 hours)
• Strong odor during application

Water-Based Polyurethane

As the name suggests, water-based polyurethane uses water as the solvent instead of oil. The resins still provide protection for the wood, but in a low-odor, fast-drying finish.

Pros:

• Dries quickly, can recoat in 2 hours
• Very low odor
• Provides a crystal clear finish

Cons:

• Not as durable as oil-based polyurethane

Oil-Based vs. Water-Based Comparison

Here is a quick overview of the main differences between oil-based and water-based polyurethane:

Application Methods for Polyurethane

Polyurethane can be applied using either a brush or a sprayer. Each method has its pros and cons.

Brushing On Polyurethane

Applying polyurethane with a high-quality brush allows you to control the amount of finish applied and get into grooves and corners easily. Use a natural bristle brush made for oil-based finishes.

Pros of brushing:

• Goes on thicker for added protection
• Great for smaller surfaces
• Gets into crevices better

Cons of brushing:

• More time consuming than spraying
• Can leave subtle brush stroke marks

Spraying Polyurethane

Using an HVLP sprayer or airless sprayer allows you to apply thin, even coats of polyurethane very quickly. Several light coats provide ideal protection.

Pros of spraying:

• Faster application
• Provides a smooth, seamless finish

Cons of spraying:

• Overspray can be tricky
• Requires masking off nearby surfaces
• More prep work

For most DIYers, brushing on polyurethane will provide great results with less hassle than spraying. But those with experience using spray equipment can achieve a flawless finish much faster.

Choosing a Polyurethane Sheen

Polyurethane is available in different finish sheens ranging from high gloss to matte. Consider what look you want before purchasing.

Gloss Polyurethane

Gloss poly gives cabinets a smooth, reflective wet look that magnifies the natural patterns and colors of the wood. It's easy to clean but will highlight imperfections.

Satin Polyurethane

Satin polyurethane provides a low luster sheen that is less shiny than gloss, yet still accentuates the wood grain. It's ideal for a classic look.

Matte Polyurethane

For a natural, muted finish, matte polyurethane is completely non-reflective. It downplays blemishes well but doesn't bring out the depth of the wood as much as glossier finishes.

How Long Does Polyurethane Take to Dry?

Allowing each coat of polyurethane to dry fully is crucial to achieving the most durable finish. Here are typical drying times:

• Oil-based polyurethane: 8-24 hours between coats
• Water-based polyurethane: 2-3 hours between coats

It takes about 30 days for polyurethane to completely cure and reach maximum hardness, regardless of which type you use.

Our Top Polyurethane Picks for Kitchen Cabinets

Here are three of our top recommendations for polyurethane to use on kitchen cabinets:

Best Oil-Based: Minwax Helmsman Spar Urethane

This oil-based polyurethane from Minwax is specially formulated to withstand moisture, spills and everyday wear and tear, making it ideal for kitchens. It self-levels nicely to minimize brush strokes.

Best Water-Based: Varathane Diamond Floor Finish

Varathane's advanced water-based formula provides excellent scratch and stain resistance comparable to oil-based polyurethane, with fast dry times.

Best Stain & Poly in One: Minwax Tung Oil Polyurethane

This unique Minwax product offers the rich look of tung oil combined with the protective power of polyurethane in one efficient product. It enhances natural wood tones.

Tips for Applying Polyurethane

Follow these tips for flawless polyurethane application and finishes every time:

• Sand between coats with 220 grit sandpaper for maximum adhesion
• Maintain adequate ventilation and wear a respirator
• Brush with the grain in thin, even strokes
• Apply at least 3 coats for a durable finish
• Allow twice the drying time for the final coat

Choosing the right polyurethane takes some careful consideration - from the oil or water-base, to the sheen and application method. Following the recommendations in this guide will help you achieve a long-lasting, professional-quality finish on your kitchen cabinets.

Be sure to adequately prepare the surface, apply thin and even coats, and allow ample drying time between coats. With a little patience, you can give your cabinets a brand new look that will hold up for years to come.