Perfect finish sought using Poly Clear

[JB]

Gday all

I'm putting the final coats of Norglass Weatherfast Poly Clear (polyurethane clear finish) on a 9' x 4' NSW rosewood table top. I havesn't used this finish before but customer requested it as table is in outdoor situation on coast. Finish is plasticy to my eye but must admit it does look thick enough to protect the wood from everything from salt air to a nuclear missile...

My problem is achieving a perfectly smooth finish on the final coat. My cheap spray gun, small compressor and limited skill aren't up to handling a table top that size without leaving a slight haze that feels rough. I can get an acceptable finish using lacquer but this poly has me beat.

Is there a post-spray process anyone can recommend to remove this spray haze, that won't leave streaks or other marks? For instance, Wattyl used to advise using Scandinavian Teak oil to smooth off their Estapol finish...perhaps they still do.

Incidentally...for any other first time users of poly...I applied the first coat by brush, as per manufacturer's instructions, which left brush marks so deep I thought I would need to start again. However, I took the chance of proceeding from their using the spray gun and after five or so coats had a thick enough base to sand using a random sander and 240 grit paper. All those brush marks were smoothed out, along with other pot holes and runs, to leave a perfectly smooth finish. And 240 grit using a random was fine enough not to leave sanding marks. I certainly got out of trouble very nicely there...hope this helps someone else.

[JB]

Try straining the poly through a stocking - it may be full of nibs. Also spray first along the near edge of the table finishing on the far side to avoid over spray.

[JB]

Tried what you suggested Rusty and it worked a treat! Thanks!

[JB]

No worries mate. Love your work...

[Honorary Bloke]

Glad you got that resolved. Now, step away from the poly, take a Bex and have a short lie down.