General Finishes High Performance Topcoat, Semi-Gloss, Pint

Semi-gloss sits in the middle of General Finishes' High Performance sheen range, at a 50 to 60 sheen rating. This pint is the interior water-based urethane and acrylic topcoat that Fine Woodworking named "Best Overall Choice." GF has one more reason to pick a higher sheen: semi-gloss and gloss contain little or no flatting agent, so they are less prone to streaking when applied by hand.

Free shipping at $75, no code needed (lower 48 + DC). Unopened cans can be returned within 30 days with a prepaid label; opened paint can't (refund policy).

Where semi-gloss sits

To land between two levels, GF says you can mix Flat, Satin, Semi-Gloss and Gloss. Dead Flat is a separate polymer and doesn't mix with the others.

Pint planning

GF rates a pint at 65 to 75 sq ft per coat and recommends 2 to 3 coats, no more than 3. For three coats, that is roughly 22 to 25 sq ft of surface. Dry time is 2+ hours before recoating, 7 to 10 days to light use and 21 days to full cure.

Applying

• Raw wood: sand no finer than 220 grit and remove the dust. Over fresh stain: apply directly, no sanding.
• Stir often. Thin with distilled water, starting at 5% and going up to 10%.
• Brush or pad on a liberal coat without pressure, and let lap marks tighten as they dry. To spray, use HVLP with a 1.1 to 1.3 mm tip.
• Sand between coats with a 220 to 320 pad. Don't use steel wool.
• Over oil-based products, wait 72+ hours first.

GF cautions against using any clear coat over white or light paints because of possible yellowing. Other sizes: semi-gloss quart and gallon. See all High Performance sheens.

Manufacturer part number: PTHSG

Questions

Can I mix semi-gloss with other sheens? Yes. GF says the Flat, Satin, Semi-Gloss and Gloss sheens of High Performance can be mixed to adjust the sheen. Dead Flat uses a different polymer and cannot be mixed with them.

How do I fix brush strokes in the last coat? GF says to sand the final coat with a 220-grit foam pad and apply another coat more liberally, without heavy back-brushing. If it is above 80 F or below 70% humidity, add 10% GF Extender for more open time.

Can I buff it to a higher gloss? GF points to dry-buffing methods, such as fine Mirka or Abralon abrasives or a Presta polishing kit. It says never to wet sand a water-based finish.

Sources: General Finishes High Performance page; GF FAQ on buffing High Performance; GF FAQ on brush strokes.

Free standard shipping on orders $75+ to the lower 48 states and DC. Some large or heavy items are excluded at checkout.

30-day returns on unused, unopened items. Returns accepted within 30 days. We send you a prepaid return label. Contact us within 30 days of delivery to start a return. Opened paint, aerosols, flammables, special orders and sale items can't be returned. Read the full refund policy.