Varnished doors - amazing results!

[Monsoon]

Ok, I'm amazed but then i'm easily pleased.

Just finished the 2nd coat on my new oak veneered doors using Ronseal's perfect finish clear coat.

You get a varnish/paint pad as part of the kit, water based, drys in 20 mins. My doors, frames and architraves now look like those plush hotel/commercial building doors, which is exactly the desired effect.

The only down side was the cost per litre. I'm sure this is a friendly consumer pack which allows them to milk it for all its worth.

* My Question *

It says on the container, "untreated wood may need 3 coats"

How do I decide if I need that 3rd coat?

It's clear varnish so there is no difference in the colour by adding additional coats.

The only thing I noticed after the 1st coat that the varnish really lifted the grain. Light sanding sorted that and after the 2nd coat it was a lot smoother but not perfectly smooth. In other words, I suspect light sanding and then a 3rd coat will improved the smoothness yet further.

Is this reason for additional coats?

 

[confidentincompetent]

Is this reason for additional coats?

Yep, plus gives more protection as you build up the coats and, the finish will last longer.

 

[Softus]

How do I decide if I need that 3rd coat?

You weigh up the better finish against the cost to you of achieving it.

 

[Monsoon]

How do I decide if I need that 3rd coat?

You weigh up the better finish against the cost to you of achieving it.

I suspect it's a case of diminishing returns the more coats you add, but I'll certainly put another coat on. I want a plate glass effect and each of the previous 2 coats have made big improvements.