Can I put a clear coat over paint? - Contractor Talk - Professional Construction and Remodeling Forum

okremodeling · 12-16-2008, 07:05 PM

Has anyone ever put clear coat over laytex paint. I am making a mailbox and would like it to last a long time any suggestions. I painted it with a good latex paint.

rustyjames · 12-16-2008, 07:11 PM

I wouldn't, clear coats are usually aggressive formulas that might cause the latex to lift, craze or bubble. You might want to think about an automotive paint system for longevity.

WarnerConstInc. · 12-16-2008, 07:14 PM

Use a deep base or accent base, varies from manufacturerer to manufactuerer, without any tint in it, it will dry clear, you need to thin the paint down a bit.

hoya · 12-16-2008, 07:33 PM

Use a high grade exterior acrylic for color retention. (factory ready mixed if possible) The best would be a 2-part Urethane. A clear coat may not do what you want.

painterdude · 12-17-2008, 05:54 PM

Minwax polycrylic should work I believe. Just read the can. Not positive how it will hold up to weather ,but I've used it on doors and decorative wall indoors. pd

plazaman · 12-17-2008, 09:35 PM

what about those glaze in faux finishes?

Dan V. · 12-22-2008, 09:02 PM

I repainted a set of interior cabinets about 6 years ago and put a semi-gloss Polycrylic finish on it. I scuffed the paint before I put it on. It's held up great so far, but again, it's interior. Not sure how that combo would hold up to weathering.

DVWayne · 01-02-2009, 10:54 PM

dont put a clear over exterior paint. The clear will wear out in a couple years and you'll be re-doing it. Go to your local PPG store and buy Pittsburgh Paints Manor Hall Gloss / Semi-Gloss Exterior. Great paint and it's very, very durable and washable. Manor hall semi and full gloss are interior / exterior rated. I painted some trim on my home with it and I hit it with the PW every spring and not so much as a flake.