CAUTION: Do NOT use any type of clear topcoat over GF Brushable White Enamel, as it may cause yellowing when used over raw or finished wood substrates regardless of priming. GF Brushable White Enamel is a premium self-sealing finish and does not require a topcoat.
General Finishes Brushable White Enamel Application Steps for Raw Wood and Sealed Surfaces
- Watch a product overview video here or comparison of GF paints and pigmented topcoats here
- Work in a well-ventilated area.
- Stir thoroughly to reincorporate solids that have settled to the bottom of the can before and throughout the application process.
- Thin as desired with distilled water; start with 5%, adding up to 10% by volume.
- Increase open time, if needed, 10-15% General Finishes Extender if allowed by local regulations. GF Extender will improve flow and leveling and increase open time, which is helpful in dry climates. California Residents: Adding more than 2% of GF Extender will make the products non-compliant per SCAQMD Regulations. GF assumes no liability for the improper use of these products.
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2-3 coats are recommended, dependent on substrate & primer used. Additional coats may be required for full coverage over dark colors. Test for adhesion over existing finishes before completing the project.
- Hand application: Use a synthetic bristle or foam brush, pad applicator, staining pad or cabinet grade roller with smooth, even strokes.
- Spray application: Before spraying, strain through a medium-mesh filter. Spray wet films at 3-5-mil thickness. HVLP: 1.8mm-2.0mm spray tip, medium air cap. Verify tip sizes with your equipment supplier. See our spray tip size recommendations here. Keep your gun at a 90° angle, 6-8" from the surface. On large, flat areas, use wet, even patterns 6-8" wide. For narrow surfaces, reduce the fan pattern to 2-3" wide to reduce overspray. Overlap each pass 25% to conceal lines. Wear NIOSH-approved respiratory & eye protection. Read here for more information on spraying techniques.
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Dry 2+ hours between coats in ideal conditions: 70°F/21°C; 50% humidity. Be sure to allow adequate dry time. You can tell if a water-based finish is dry if it forms a powder when lightly sanded with a fine-grade (220-320) foam sanding pad. If in doubt, wait longer. Rushing the dry time can cause "blush," which is clouding in the finish due to moisture trapped between the layers. Increase dry time if:Finish sand between coats with a fine-grade (220-320) foam sanding pad to improve smoothness and adhesion. Do not use conventional steel wool.
- Humidity is over 80%
- 3+ coats are applied
- Thick coats are applied
- Applying over an existing sealed finish
- Applying over products from other brands
- Layering General Finishes water- and oil-based products:
- Water over oil: Let oil-based products dry 72+hr before applying water-based products
- Oil over water: Let water-based products dry 24+hr before applying oil-based products
- To accelerate dry time in humid conditions, add General Finishes Accelerator and work in a space with good ventilation and air movement. If you decide to re-coat before the recommended time, test dryness.
- Remove dust with a vacuum, compressed air, an oil-free tack cloth or a water-dampened rag.
- A topcoat is not required or recommended. The use of clear topcoat, even when the surface is primed, may cause yellowing. If you choose to topcoat, apply no more than 2 coats and apply Brushable White Enamel over 2 coats General Finishes Stain Blocker.
Tinting
BWE can be tinted, but only to a light neutral or pastel shade with a Colorfal Zero VOC UTC colorant.
Cure Time
Water-based finishes cure and harden for full use after 21 days in ideal conditions. Avoid placing heavy objects on surfaces that have not completely cured. Treat gently, and do not clean with commercial products during the curing period.
Warning: Do not use water-based products with Linseed Oils or Danish Oils.
