Brushing ensures an even and consistent layer of polyurethane, resulting in a smoother and more uniform finish. But you might have a blotchy and unattractive finish if you do not know what brush to use.
So our resident painters rounded up their tried and tested best brushes for polyurethane that can provide that smooth, aesthetically-pleasing surface.
Reviews of the Top Brushes for Polyurethane Application
1. Wooster Brush 5221-2 1/2
This Wooster brush silver tip, with a width of 2.5 inches, is excellent for applying polyurethane to medium-sized woodworking projects or furniture since you can use it for broad and narrow strokes.
With the tapered bristles, you can get into tight spaces and cover the whole surface. The brush’s sleek wooden handle is also ergonomically designed to fit your hand, giving you complete command of each stroke.
The polyester-filament synthetic bristles of the Wooster 5221-2 also allow for a delicate touch and a silky smooth surface. The soft bristles are kept firmly in place by the brushed steel ferrule, which is also resistant to corrosion and rust.
What We Like
- Good quality brush
- Good bristles
- Stainless steel ferrule
- It can be used with water- and oil-based polyurethanes
What We Don't Like
- It requires mineral spirits for cleaning
- Bristles can shed
2. 1-1/2" Purdy 144296015 Ox-O-Angular
This Purdy XL brush is manufactured by combining white China bristle and ox hair for applying oil-based polyurethane with ease and resilience. The bristles stay put in the brush thanks to a sturdy ferrule.
The Purdy 144296014 also has 1.5 inches of tapered bristles, making it easy to reach into tight spaces and cover all surfaces.
Lacquer, paint, varnish, enamel, and polyurethane are just some of the oil-based coatings or sealants you can use with this brush. We like that a hanging hole on the thin hardwood handle makes for convenient, bristle-safe storage when not in use.
What We Like
- Natural bristle brush
- Versatile brush
- Sturdy stainless ferrule
- It won’t leave brush marks
- Ideal for large and flat surfaces
What We Don't Like
- A bit pricey
- Narrow handle not ideal for some
3. Pro Grade - Paint Brushes - 5 Ea - Paint Brush Set
This budget-friendly value bundle from Pro Grade includes five quality brushes that are ideal for applying polyurethane.
Both a flat brush and a tapered brush, each measuring 1.5 inches in length, are included in the set; the former is designed for use on thin pieces and unusual angles, while the latter is best suited for cleaning sharp corners and edges.
The Pro Grade brush set features polyester filament bristles that are held securely in place by a stainless steel ferrule, which is also resistant to rust and corrosion. Each brush has a wooden handle shaped for a firm grip which is a nice feature.
What We Like
- Multi-purpose brush
- Durable
- Synthetic bristle brush
- Provides good results
- Comfortable
What We Don't Like
- It requires paint thinner for cleaning
- May leave minimal streaks
4. Wooster 3103-1 1/2 3103-1-1/2 Foam King Paintbrush
When spreading polyurethane to small items like chair legs, a bird feeder, or a mailbox, this foam brush from the Wooster Brush Company is a perfect alternative. Unlike other options in the market, its bristles do not fall out, bend or break.
The Wooster 3103-1 is 1.5 inches wide, allowing for a seamless application of water and oil-based polyurethane over a relatively limited area.
The Wooster foam brush can flex and curve for optimal outcomes while the hardcore keeps the ferrule and handle in place. We recommend this brush as an excellent pick for the occasional do-it-yourselfer because of its modest cost and moderate reuse.
What We Like
- Best foam brush for affordability
- Available in various sizes
- Built-in stiffener
- Good for even and straight surfaces
What We Don't Like
- It can only be reused a few times
- Plastic brush
5. 2" Purdy 144152320 XL Glide Angled Sash Paint Brush
This Purdy 144152320 XL brush has synthetic bristles constructed from a blend of nylon and polyester, readily absorbing water-based polyurethane to leave a smooth, uniform coating. The brush’s sleek oak handle makes it simple to exert control over each stroke.
We like that its bristles are protected from wear and tear by a brushed copper ferrule that is resistant to rust and corrosion. Use this brush to apply finishes to door molding or window shutters, as well as other small to medium woodworking tasks.
With a breadth of 2 inches, this brush is well suited for prolonged, sweeping motions, while the tapered bristles allow for precise application in confined spaces.
What We Like
- Good brush size
- Provides a smooth finish on wood surface
- Ideal for interior and exterior projects
- Synthetic brush bristles
- Polyurethane brushes for stains and paint
- High-quality polyester bristles blend
What We Don't Like
- A bit pricey
- Handle may be too thin for some
6. Wooster Brush Q3108-4 Paintbrush
This 4-inch broad brush from Wooster is ideal for quickly applying polyurethane to a wall, table, or door. In contrast, synthetic brushes of a narrower width are better suited for smaller to medium-sized woodworking jobs.
The brush’s synthetic bristles are constructed of nylon and polyester and designed to work well with water-based polyurethane to produce a smooth, even coating.
Instead of uneven, splotchy coatings, you can achieve a smooth, uniform appearance. The bristles of the Wooster Brush Q3108-4 are kept in place, and a brass-plated steel ferrule and plastic handle maintain the brush’s exceptional durability.
Next Readings:
What We Like
- Brass-plated steel ferrule
- Synthetic bristle brush
- Wide brush strokes
- Very soft formulation
- It can handle a thick coat
- Best polyurethane brush for large tasks
What We Don't Like
- Ideal for touchups
- Width might not be suitable for other tasks
7. Minwax 427350008 Polyurethane 2" Trim-Black
Minwax created a polyurethane brush with natural bristles for wood finishes. It comes in 1.2-inch, 2-inch, and 2-inch sizes, so you can choose the right one for your project.
This brush can apply water-based stains and finishes with ease, specifically designed for use with polyurethane. Natural bristles are superior to synthetic ones in absorption and layer retention.
This Minwax 427350008 brush has a stainless ferrule, which works well while brushing, and the strands are so shiny they could be mistaken for glass– perfect for water-based stains and paint. It is compatible with Minwax polyurethane, too, and one of the reliable paint brushes for trim, baseboards, and more.
What We Like
- Natural filament bristles
- Bristles remain firmly in place
- Ideal for any polyurethane coating
- Good for painted wooden surface
- Stainless steel ferrule
What We Don't Like
- It requires maintenance
- For careful applications
All You Need to Know About Polyurethane
Water-Based Poly
Compared to polyurethane materials made from oil, this is safer for the environment and human health. It dries rapidly, so you may apply several coats without waiting a long time. It gives the final surface a lovely look if you use it correctly.
The product may be easily cleaned with only little soapy water, so maintenance shouldn’t be too much of a hassle.
To clean, you shouldn’t use harsh chemicals like ammonia [1]. That’s bad for the final product, the ecosystem, and health. Face masks, gloves, and goggles are essential pieces of protective gear.
Oil-Based Poly
This variety of polyurethane can make surfaces that last a long time after finishing. If you want to use this polyurethane, ensure you have plenty of fresh air.
Because of its low adhesive capabilities, oil-based polyurethane takes a long time to dry. There must be adequate ventilation because of this.
Cleaning this polyurethane will require mineral spirits. Eliminate lung and skin injury by donning protective clothing before handling it. The application of multiple coats of oil-based polyurethane is not possible.
Water-Based Oil-Modified Poly
It dries quickly, so you won’t have to wait too long in between applications, which is a common problem with paint. This product, however, poses a potential threat to human health. Excessive exposure is harmful to the skin and lungs.
Wear safety equipment, including face masks, gloves, boots, and goggles, and ensure enough fresh air is around. The polyurethane treated with water and oil produces resilient and aesthetically pleasing coatings.
Why Do You Need To Use Brush for Polyurethane Application?
Brushes for polyurethane are better and more efficient than rollers, cloths, and sprayers for applying polyurethane. Utilizing the top polyurethane brush has several advantages. Among these are
- The best brushes ensure that everything is nice and flat and that there are no bumps everywhere.
- It may withstand contact with polyurethane-based substances.
- The best brushes boost the visual quality of the finished surface and wood grain.
- Using a brush, you can prevent the formation of bubbles on the surface.
- It's an excellent tool for getting into hard-to-reach places like tight corners.
- It has a high-quality construction and is built to last.
Brush for Polyurethane Buyer’s Guide
Bristles
Natural and synthetic bristles are used in brush production. Instead of bristles, some people use angled foam to apply polyurethane. Material shape, project size, and polyurethane base all play a role in determining the best brush for polyurethane.