what the difference between this and the polycrylic??

I use both for different reasons. This oil base is more durable against wear and water rings than polycrylic for things like table tops and countertops. It is easier to get a smooth finish when brushing because it dries slower and flows out flatter. It WILL impart a warm, yellowish finish that is visible on lighter woods, and it will create a darker patina with age. It gives a warm, amber glow to medium or dark wood finishes. This quality may or may not be desirable. It usually only requires two coats. Use it for durability, a warm, aged patina, and ease of application towards a smooth finish. Polycrylic is not as durable and can show "elbow wear" on table tops after a few year. It will stay crystal clear on white woods, but can impart a milky sheen on darker woods. It dries fast, so you can sand between coats much quicker than oil. However, that can make it tricky to brush it on and get a smooth finish, especially if you brush back over it when it gets tacky. It requires minimum of 3 coats, 4 for long durability. on wearable surfaces Use it when you need a crystal clear finish on light colored woods, and fast drying between coats is desired.

Will it be very shine and smooth for the surface after I use? thanks

Yes. I recommend first using a 600 grit sandpaper to lightly remove old finish. Remove all dust with a damp cloth, and then lightly spray on first coat (Thin coat best). Wait 24 hours to dry. Next lightly sand using a 1500 grit sandpaper, remove all dust with a damp cloth, and then lightly spray on first coat (Thin coat best). Repeat this step two more times. Glass feel may require additional applications. Remember thin coats. PS: If you choose the brush method, do not use sponge brushes since it is more likely to leave bubbles, use a good quality sable hair brush. I did a bar top decades ago applying clear polyurethane with about 20 thin coats in the first year about once every other week and I left a penny at the end of the top and coated over it until it disappeared ant the bar top was so smooth. The top was red mahogany that is probably still a luster for the new owner. I could slide a bear from one end to the other end.

Can this be used on floors?

Yes, this oil based polyurethane fast drying is absolutely engineered for hardwood floor and definitely in high traffic areas. I used the water based polyurethane in the dining room and this is the hallways, this looks so good and is holding up better than expected.

what is the best way to apply this

Use a bristled brush. Those sponge brushes leave bubbles in it.

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Reviews

M**E

Reliable Polyurethane Finish for Long-Lasting Wood Protection

I’ve been using Minwax Fast Drying Polyurethane Protective Wood Finish, and it provides excellent protection for wood surfaces. The finish dries quickly and builds a durable, resilient layer that shields wood from scratches, moisture, and wear. For the best results, multiple coats with light sanding between each layer are recommended, as this helps create a smooth, even, long-lasting finish. Overall, this product is dependable, effective, and a must-have for woodworking or finishing projects where lasting protection is a priority.

6.01.2026

A**R

Great price for great product

Great price for great results. I just finished building a small table out of pallet wood and after 6 coach.I've got a great finish

31.10.2025

M**O

I've used this before. Good stuff

4.01.2026

L**.

Reliable.

Three coats and dries fast. Clear finish. Dependable. Easy to apply.

3.11.2025

R**E

Just like it is supposed to work. A very hard finish that can be matted to taste

I have tried many different finishes. I always come back to poly, and I always come back to Minwax. This works like it is supposed to work. I can easily create a matte finish with steel wool and mineral spirits. I have always had problems with this and other finishes drying out before I was done. I have completely solved that by shooting a bit of Bloxygen into the can before sealing it, then storing the can upside down. I dilute the finish by 40% to make a near wiping varnish.

16.02.2025

J**N

Better than others.

After years of using a high priced competitor (GF) and having recent issues with streaking and fish-eyes I decided to try Minwax. Cheaper, dries quicker, better leveling, bubbles quickly vanish, and no fish-eye. My go to polyurethane at this point.

12.09.2025

D**N

Polyurethane

Very good quality. Easy to use. And it protected what I needed sealed from water. Nice glossy finish.

1.09.2025

K**A

AZ Approved

Great for all types of wood. Used this on 2 different types of wood and it has lasted so far with the AZ weather.

6.01.2026

Brand	Minwax
Finish Type	Semi-Gloss
Item Weight	1.9 Pounds
Liquid Volume	11.36 Fluid Ounces
Material	oil based
Recommended Uses For Product	Interior

Fast Drying Polyurethane Protective Wood Finish, Clear Semi-Gloss, 1 Quart

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