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Solving Polyurethane Finishing Problems

Flooring, Repairs and Installation, Ask Danny Published 04/18/2008 by Danny Lipford

I put polyurethane on cabinets after I stained them. Now a week later, I find oil on the surface of the cabinets, and when I try to clean it, it leaves dull spots. I don’t know what to do, or what is the problem. H-E-E-E-E-L-P!!! - Thomas

Thomas,

Polyurethane finishes should dry hard in a matter of hours and not bleed oil as yours is doing. Here are some possible reasons for the problem:

Using an old or partially used can of finish.
Using a can of finish that has been subjected to extreme temperatures.
Not stirring the finish thoroughly before application.
Applying the finish outside the recommended temperature and humidity range.
Applying over an oily surface, or over certain exotic woods—like rosewood, teak, ebony, and cocobolo—that contain natural oils.

If you have followed these guidelines, the problem may be with the finish itself.

As far as solving your problem goes, if the finish has stopped bleeding oil and feels like it has dried hard, you might be able to even out the gloss by wiping the cabinets down with a rag dampened with mineral spirits (assuming it was oil-based polyurethane) followed by a dry cloth. Be sure to extinguish any pilot lights and open flames and use adequate ventilation when working indoors with mineral spirits.

If the gloss is still uneven, try sanding it lightly with 220 grit sandpaper and applying another coat of finish. Use a fresh can of the same finish from a different store in case the batch in question was bad. If you continue to have problems, the only alternative might be to strip the cabinets and start all over again.

Good luck,

Danny

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5 Comments to “Solving Polyurethane Finishing Problems”

Harry Pascos Says:
April 20th, 2008 at 2:19 pm

Hi Danny
We are having windows istalled and wonder what is more toxic to a person having difficulty breathing fibre glass insulation or foam.My wife has many alergies and we have nowhere to go while the work is being done.Is there a safer product avaiable?
Cleaning producte,strong cooking odours,smoke from fireplaces all bother my wife.
Ben Erickson Says:
May 22nd, 2008 at 1:32 pm

Harry,
There are several new insulation products that are easier on your lungs, such as wall and ceiling insulation made from cotton and foam made from soybeans. You can read more about them in our article Green Products for Your Home. If you go with foam, ask for a safety data sheet on it and check to be sure the VOC emissions are low.
jenny Says:
June 22nd, 2008 at 9:40 pm

I applied a PU flooring system and after curing, there were humps and cracks on the surface. What could be the reasons for these?
Russ Says:
June 28th, 2008 at 10:10 am

I APPLIED A COAT OF POLYURETHANE AND 15 HRS LATER IT’S STILL TACKY
Andy Says:
July 3rd, 2008 at 7:32 am

Danny, I had a hardwood floor refinished. a couple of small spots did not get the final ( 3rd. ) coat, when the finisher sanded them down and applied the material it came out much duller than the surrounding surfaces - same finisher / same product. Suggestions?
Thanks