Poly? Urethane? Polyurethane?
I'm pretty ignorant about finishing products, but there seems to be a general consensus that "poly" finishes aren't as nice as more traditional shellac/varnish/lacquer finishes. (With certain exceptions, such as high wear or moisture applications.) As I understand it, the poly finishes aren't quite as rich; they're more artificial looking.
Meanwhile, I've recently started using General Finishes' Arm-R-Seal, which the label calls "oil and urethane". I like the stuff, and see quite a few others here use it too. Which leads to my questions...
Is there a difference between urethane and polyurethane? If so, will I understand the difference without a degree in chemistry? Or is the difference of any real concern? Is Arm-R-Seal really a polyurethane, labeled in such a way as to make me think it's somehow better? Will my friends still respect me in the morning* for using a urethane finish, whereas they might not for using a polyurethane? :rolleyes: Please edumacate me.
Thanks -
- Vaughn
* OK, we all know they don't respect me anyway, but figuratively speaking...
Good finish - but just thinned polyurethane.
Vaughn,
I too have been using ARM-R-SEAL and I think it is a pretty good finish, and really easy for me to apply. As I understand things it is simply a wiping polyurethane, which is simply a regular polyurethane that has been thinned down with mineral spirits, or some other thinner.
If you want to read a good article about this, check out this link. http://www.woodworking-magazine.com/...ch%202004.aspx
near the bottom you can download a free copy of this magazine, and it contains an article titled "Understanding Wipe on Finishes". Also there is a good article in the november popular woodworking magazine about this.
I dont think it makes you less of a woodworker, and I saw that box you posted a few days ago and it was awesome.
I personally think the key to any finish is how well you use it and execute it. We can debate which is best for durability, water resistance, historical accuracy, etc......but I think all that takes second place to what the finish looks like. You are getting some great results with the ARM-R-SEAL on your projects and I wouldnt worry one bit about what it really is.
Andy