General Finishes Exterior 450 is a water-based urethane/acrylic clear topcoat for vertical exterior surfaces such as fences, patio furniture, garage doors, entrance doors, outdoor kitchens and interior windows. It is not recommended as a deck finish. This quart is the Satin sheen.
Exterior 450 is fortified with UV absorbers to help protect the finish film, and it includes a built-in mildewcide to slow mold and mildew growth. It works as a clear coat or as an optional topcoat over darker General Finishes Milk Paint colors. Do not use it over light or white paints, because yellowing may occur.
Highlights
- Water white in the can, dries clear, and does not amber
- Self-sealing; usable over existing finishes with proper prep
- Brush, roll or spray (HVLP tip 1.1-1.3 mm)
- Soap and water cleanup for hands; GF Brush and Gun Cleaner for equipment
Specifications
| Sheen / size |
Satin (25-35) / 1 quart |
| Base / use |
Water-based urethane/acrylic blend / exterior vertical surfaces |
| Coverage |
About 140-160 sq ft per quart per coat (General Finishes) |
| Coats |
2-3 coats; TDS recommends at least 3 total coats |
| Touch dry |
30+ minutes at about 70 F and 50% humidity |
| Recoat |
2+ hours in ideal conditions |
| Light use / full cure |
7-10 days / 21 days |
| VOC |
Under 125 g/L |
| Solids |
About 29% by volume, 30% by weight (Satin) |
| Thinning |
Water, GF Extender or GF Accelerator per TDS |
| Manufacturer part # |
QXS |
How much do I need?
At 140-160 sq ft per quart per coat, a 3-coat finish from one quart covers roughly 47-53 sq ft. A 2-coat finish covers roughly 70-80 sq ft.
How to apply
- Raw wood: sand no finer than 220 grit and remove dust. Freshly stained wood: apply only after the stain is fully dry.
- Previously finished wood: clean with a 50:50 denatured alcohol/water mix, then sand lightly with a 220-320 grit pad and remove dust. Test adhesion.
- Stir thoroughly. Apply 2-3 coats out of direct sun. Sand lightly between coats with a fine pad and remove dust.
- Allow full cure before heavy weather exposure. Always follow the product label and Exterior 450 technical data sheet.
Good to know
- Not for decks
- The UV additive protects the finish film; it does not stop wood from changing color in sunlight
- Do not use over linseed or Danish oil finishes
- Test for adhesion and appearance before starting the full project
Questions
Can I use this on a deck? No. Exterior 450 is for vertical exterior surfaces, not decks.
Can I topcoat Milk Paint with it? Yes over darker Milk Paint colors. Do not use over light or white paints.
How long before another coat? About 2+ hours in ideal conditions; cool or humid weather can take longer.
Shop related
Exterior 450 Satin Gallon. Exterior 450 Flat Gallon. Shop General Finishes, protective finishes and topcoats, exterior stains and deck finishes, or plan the job with the furniture refinishing project cart. See also the manufacturer Exterior 450 page.