Top Coats

All of our top coats are specially formulated for Heirloom Traditions chalk painted surfaces.

Best Chalk Top Coat

Best Chalk Top Coat from Heirloom Traditions Paint is specifically designed to go over our paints and waxes.  It provides top-notch protection for surfaces that get a lot of use, such as table tops and kitchen cabinets.  Best Chalk Top Coat is scratch-resistant and holds up to household chemicals, alcohol and water.

How to Use:  Application is easiest with a foam brush or foam roller.  Stir (do not shake) the product before using.  Apply the first coat and let dry completely; approximately 12 hours.  Some users wipe the wet top coat with a lint free cloth in even smooth strokes in one direction only (but don't over do).  It is important to let the first coat to dry completely before applying another coat.  Finish with a second coat for optimal protection.   The goal is to apply in thin smooth layers.  Let dry 24-48 hours before using the surface.  Allow a week of cure time to develop maximum scratch and moisture resistance.
  • Designed for use over our paint and wax products to create a hard shell finish and permanent top coat alternative
  • Polyurethane (** requires paint thinner cleanup)
  • Available only in satin finish
  • Adds a protective finish coat to your finished piece
  • Suitable for indoor or outdoor use
  • More durable than polyacrylic (water based) top coats
  • ** Polyurethane may tend to yellow with UV light; may show amber tint when applied to whites and light shades of paint.   (unlike polyacrylic/water-based top coats)
  • ** Use in a well ventilated area.  This product does have a strong odor.
  • Recommended for exterior surfaces.  For Interior surfaces, consider Aqua Clear Top Coat (water based, low VOC’s)

Aqua Clear Ultra Finish Top Coat

Aqua Clear Ultra Finish Top Coat is a water-based top coat designed to be used over painted, stained and waxed surfaces that cured and are thoroughly dry (48 to 72 hours).   It will adhere over an oil stain ONLY if the stain is completely dry (minimum 4 days drying).  Our unique formulation available in 3 different finishes – matte, satin, and gloss – is a great choice for protecting all your furniture and accessories projects.

How to Use:  Sand surface with #120 grit sandpaper and finish with #220 grit for optimal results.  Stir (do not shake) Aqua Clear well.  Application is easiest with a foam brush or roller or pad applicator.  The product will have a milky or cloudy appearance but will dry clear.  Using smooth even strokes, apply a liberal, even first coat* and let dry completely (2 to 4 hours depending on humidity and temperature) before adding additional coat(s).  This is very important to obtain a fully cured surface layer.  Do not rush dry times and coating times.  Let dry before using the surface.  Coverage: ±60 to 70 sq.ft. per pint

* Some users wipe the wet top coat with a lint free cloth in even smooth strokes in one direction only (but don't over do).
  • Polyacrylic (water-based)
  • Soap and water cleanup
  • Available in gloss, satin, and matte finishes
  • Adds a protective finish coat to your finished piece
  • Suitable for indoor or outdoor use
  • Durable but not quite as durable as polyurethane top coats
  • Not susceptible to potential “yellowing” over the years