Refinish Worn Boards: Polyurethane Steps That Hold Up

Summary: For durability, use oil‑based polyurethane, not polycrylic. Sand lightly between coats and allow proper cure time.

Step‑by‑step

1. Prep

• Clean the surface. Mask edges and hole if needed.

2. Sand

• 320‑grit light passes to knock down roughness. Wipe dust.

3. First coat

• Thin, even coat of oil‑based polyurethane. Let set ~10 hours (check can label).

4. Level and build

• Light 320‑grit scuff. Apply 2–3 additional thin coats, drying fully between coats.

5. Final smooth

• Optional 0000 steel wool or 600–800‑grit micro‑scuff once cured, then wipe.

Why polyurethane

• Better heat/moisture resistance and fewer scratches than polycrylic.

Safety

• Ventilate, wear a respirator, keep rags/brushes away from flame.

Final word

Thin coats win. Let chemistry do its job and you’ll get a fast, durable deck.