What is the Best Brush for Polyurethane Application? (2023)

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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.

Premium Option
Purdy 144296015
Editor’s Choice
Wooster 5221-2
Budget Option
Pro Grade 6015-2 5 Ea
Purdy 144296015
Wooster 5221-2
Pro Grade 6015-2 5 Ea
• Natural bristle
• Versatile
• Angular or Flat trim
• China/Ox bristle blend
• Silver tip
• 2.5-inch width
• Quality bristles
• Wooden handle
• Multi-purpose
• Synthetic
• Durable
• Comfortable grip
Premium Option
Purdy 144296015
Purdy 144296015
• Natural bristle
• Versatile
• Angular or Flat trim
• China/Ox bristle blend
Editor’s Choice
Wooster 5221-2
Wooster 5221-2
• Silver tip
• 2.5-inch width
• Quality bristles
• Wooden handle
Budget Option
Pro Grade 6015-2 5 Ea
Pro Grade 6015-2 5 Ea
• Multi-purpose
• Synthetic
• Durable
• Comfortable grip

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

What We Don't Like

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

What We Don't Like

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

What We Don't Like

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

What We Don't Like

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

What We Don't Like

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

What We Don't Like

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

What We Don't Like

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.

close up view Varathane 200241H Water-Based Ultimate Polyurethane

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.

applying General Finishes Arm-R-Seal Oil-Based Finish

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

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.