Expert: Greg Scholl - 11/17/2009

Question
I have stained six panel interior doors and need to apply polyurethane to them.  Can you advise the best brush technique to accommodate the recessed panel areas, rails and styles.  Cost is a concern with having them professionally sprayed, which I realize is the best option.  Any pointers/recommendations you can provide would be much appreciated!

Thanks you!

Answer
Hi Sandra, you can spray them with an aerosol like the Minwax fast dry polyurethane. These cans are capable of giving a very professional looking finish with the right technique.....or if you want to use a brush, start with the six raised panels, working out from there, then the center stile and top and bottom rails, then the two sides and edges, be sure to coat the end grain as well on top and bottom of the doors. Work quickly, feathering your brush strokes into the wet areas, and finish by back brushing the finish in long blending strokes. Don't over brush and be sure to apply an even thickness film over the entire area, also work in a well lit area so you can really see what you're doing. Check the underside edges for drips after you've applied the whole coat.Usually I'll just run a finger around the bottom edge to smooth any drips or runs that may be there. Working with the doors in a horizontal position is best, and will also make it easier to pay closer attention to your work. Use a high quality, natural bristle brush, cheap brushes do a crappy job...I like an angled sash brush for doing this type of work 1-1/2" or 2" white or black China Bristle. DON'T use Gloss poly, either a Satin or Semi-Gloss, and stir the can every 10 minutes or so while working with it.....hope that helps. Sometimes I'll do a combination technique and brush the first one or two coats,sand with some 400-600 just until smooth to the touch, wipe the door down, and spray the final coat.also, after the finish starts to "flash", meaning it's starting to set and dry, you can put a fan on the doors to accelerate the drying, an oscillating fan works best, just make sure the relative humidity is low, and there's no dust around to stick to the finish. Whenever doing any finishing with a varnish of any type it's imperative to do it in a clean, dust free, environment, and leave the area alone right after finishing........regards- Greg