General Finishes Exterior 450 Water-Based Topcoat Satin Gallon

General Finishes Exterior 450 Water-Based Topcoat Satin Gallon

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 gallon 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
• Soap and water cleanup for hands

Specifications

• Type: water-based urethane/acrylic blend, exterior (vertical surfaces)
• Sheen: Satin (25 to 35 sheen)
• Size: 1 gallon
• Coverage: 560 to 640 sq ft per gallon (General Finishes)
• Recommended coats: 2 to 3
• Dry to touch: 30+ minutes. Recoat: 2+ hours. Light use: 7 to 10 days. Full cure: 21 days (at 70 degrees F and 50% humidity)
• VOC: under 125 g/L
• Solids: about 29% by volume, 30% by weight (Satin)
• Apply with: synthetic bristle brush, foam brush, roller, or HVLP sprayer (1.1 to 1.3 mm tip)

How much do I need?

At 560 to 640 sq ft per gallon per coat, a 3-coat finish from one gallon covers roughly 185 to 210 sq ft. A 2-coat finish covers roughly 280 to 320 sq ft.

How to apply

1. Raw wood: sand no finer than 220 grit and remove dust. Freshly stained wood: apply only after the stain is fully dry.
2. Previously finished wood: clean, then sand lightly with a 220 to 320 grit sponge and remove dust.
3. Stir thoroughly. Apply 2 to 3 coats. Sand lightly between coats with a fine pad and remove dust.
4. Allow full cure before heavy weather exposure. Always follow the product label.

Good to know

• Not for decks
• The UV additive protects the finish film; it does not stop wood from changing color in sunlight
• Test for adhesion and appearance before starting the full project

Want Flat instead? See the Exterior 450 Flat Gallon, or shop General Finishes, protective finishes and topcoats, and the furniture refinishing project cart.