Clear Coat for Water-Based Paint and Coatings
Recently a customer contacted us asking if there was a way to make the latex paint he had just applied to his kitchen trim more durable. He said he wanted to protect high wear areas from getting scratched or worn through. We told him yes, DiamondFinish Clear is incredible for protecting latex and as a clear coat for water-based paint and coatings of other types.
What are Water-Based Paint and Coatings?
Water-based coatings are any surface coating or finish that uses water as a solvent. Their formulations could include as much as 80% water with small amounts of other solvents.
Water-based paints and coatings are increasing in popularity, mainly due to regulations regarding volatile organic compounds, otherwise known as VOCs, which are emitted as gases from certain solids or liquids. Water-based paints or coatings tend to have lower VOCs.
| Water-Based Types | Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Latex paint | Brushes clean up in water | Vulnerable to chipping |
| Water-based acrylic finishes | Lower odor than oil or solvent-based coatings | Slow cure time, up to two weeks to fully cure |
| Water-based urethane finishes | Lower VOCs | Lower level of shine; water-based polyurethane may need more cleaning and recoating over time |
Using Clear Coat for Water-Based Paint and Coatings
Now we get back to our customer's question about increasing the durability of latex paint. Clear coat can be applied to water-based paints and coatings to provide a layer of durability and can also be a solution for the other issues water-based paints and coatings face.
Increasing Durability of Water-Based Coatings with Clear Coat
Solvent-based clear coat provides a hard, clear, protective layer that adds a level of impact resistance, durability, and abrasion resistance to water-based coatings, helping to avoid chips and wear damage and keeping the paint or coating from peeling. Professional painters often choose to top coat latex paint and other painted surfaces with a clear coat for water-based paint to protect them from scratches and scuffs. Solvent-based clear coat can also protect the base coat from damage caused by harsh chemicals and other contaminants.
Using Clear Coat to Adjust the Sheen of Water-Based Coatings
As previously mentioned, the sheen of water-based coatings can be a little dull compared to other types of coatings. Top coating with a high-gloss clear coat adds a higher level of shine. Consider modern automotive finishes that have an acrylic polyurethane enamel base that dries to a dull, satin finish; here the use of a glossy clear coat for water-based paint is necessary to get a shiny finish. Alternately, a clear coat with a satin finish can be used to bring down the level of shine of water-based coatings. An added benefit is that a clear coat gives the base coat color more depth and the finish a rich appearance.
DiamondFinish Clear is an Ideal Clear Coat for Water-Based Paint and Coatings
DiamondFinish Clear is used to seal, protect, and beautify your fully cured water-based paint and coatings. DiamondFinish Clear is an easy to use solvent-based, single-part, moisture-cured formula that performs in the toughest environments. The clear coat is available in aerosol spray, or in cans for application with a brush, roller, or spray equipment.
Why DiamondFinish Clear Works Over Water-Based Coatings Crystal Clear — Available in high gloss and satin finishes, and can be wet sanded, cut, buffed, and polished to a deep mirror finish. Durable — KBS' Advanced Cross-Linked Coatings Technology keeps the coating both durable and flexible, resisting impacts without cracking, chipping, or peeling, and resisting scratches and scuffing. UV Stable — Can be used on exterior grade water-based paint and coatings exposed to sunlight without chalking, yellowing, or fading. Self-Leveling — Flows out to a smooth, uniform finish that doesn't show brush marks. Resistant to Chemicals — Withstands harsh chemicals like fuels, solvents, battery acid, brake fluid, ethanol, methanol, MEK, hydrochloric acid, fertilizers, and acetone. |
Steps to Clear Coat a Water-Based Painted Surface
| Step | What to Do |
| 1 | Make sure the water-based paint or coating is fully cured before applying DiamondFinish Clear. Otherwise, the base coat can start to crack underneath the clear coat. |
| 2 | Thoroughly remove all dirt, grease, and other contaminants from the surface with a cleaner like KBS Klean that doesn't leave residue. |
| 3 | If needed, lightly scuff with 600-1200 grit sandpaper and repeat the cleaning process. |
| 4 | Rinse and allow to dry thoroughly. |
| 5 | Follow the detailed DiamondFinish Clear application instructions for coat thickness and cure time. |
DiamondFinish Clear works great as a clear coat for water-based paint and coatings, as well as for other surfaces and materials. Now you can have an incredible look and durable finish that lasts a lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you put a clear coat over latex paint?
Yes. A solvent-based clear coat like DiamondFinish Clear can be applied over fully cured latex paint to add impact resistance, abrasion resistance, and protection against chipping and peeling.
Why do water-based paints and coatings need a clear coat?
Water-based coatings are more vulnerable to chipping, tend to have a lower level of shine, and can require more frequent cleaning and recoating. A clear coat adds a hard, protective layer that improves durability, adjusts sheen, and protects the base coat from chemicals and contaminants.
How long should water-based paint cure before applying a clear coat?
The water-based paint or coating must be fully cured before applying a clear coat like DiamondFinish Clear. Water-based coatings can take up to two weeks to fully cure, and applying clear coat too soon can cause the base coat to crack underneath it.
Does clear coat change the sheen of water-based paint?
Yes. A high-gloss clear coat adds more shine to a dull or satin water-based finish, while a satin clear coat can be used to bring down the sheen. Clear coat also adds depth and a richer appearance to the base color.
Ready to Clear Coat Your Water-Based Paint? DiamondFinish Clear seals, protects, and adds gloss over fully cured latex and other water-based coatings. Order direct and we ship same day. |