7 Best Finish for Cornhole Boards 2024 [Nice & Smooth]

Choosing the best finish for cornhole boards is essential for both durability and gameplay quality. A well-applied finish protects the wood from damage caused by outdoor elements, scratches, and wear from frequent play.

Moreover, a quality finish creates a smooth surface that allows the cornhole bags to slide effortlessly, improving the overall gameplay experience.

Whether you’re a casual backyard player or part of a competitive league, having the right finish on your corn toss boards can enhance both appearance and functionality.

In this article, we’ve reviewed the best stains for corn toss boards to help you find the ideal product for your needs. From durable polyurethane coatings to easy-to-apply polycrylic options, these top finishes not only protect your boards but also elevate their aesthetics.

By selecting one of the seven polyurethane finishes we’ve covered, you can ensure your acl boards are well-prepped for countless games, while maintaining a professional look and feel.

Top 7 Polyurethane Finish of Corn Toss Boards Comparison :

Which Types of Finish to Use on Cornhole Boards:

Generally, a cornhole board finish is a poly coat or clear coat that provides a smooth finish protecting the board from several elements. There are various types of finishes available in the market for cornhole finishing. However, the most popular finishes are polyurethane and polycrylic. Let’s get to know them better.

a) Polyurethane Finish:

If you are wondering about the most popular cornhole board finish then know polyurethane is number one. The most convincing fact about this finish is that it comes with two different formulas. One is water-based polyurethane and the other is oil-based polyurethane.

Nonetheless, oil-based polyurethane snatches the trophy if you are looking for the highest durability. Though this solution takes a long time to dry after application, yet it serves you the longest. However, it has also been noticed that oil-based polyurethane leaves a yellow tint after some days of its application. It might make the cornhole board unappealing to look at.

On the other hand, water-based polyurethane dries quickly. Whereas the oil-based one leaves an amber, the water-based one leaves a finish that is more like a clear coat. So, there is no chance it will become unappealing over time.

b) Polycrylic Finish:

Polycrylic finish is arguably another popular finish for cornhole boards. However, it comes with only a water-based solution. Polycrylic generally provides a clear and glossy finish to cornhole boards. This finish is considered the best for applying on light wood surfaces.

Polycrylic formula comes with a fast-drying formula. However, the formula is also runny. Therefore, its applying process is a bit complicated. There are some pros and cons of using polycrylic. It offers a slick finish but at times it also can be a bit sticky. If you face this problem, you can make your cornhole board slicker by adding some corn starch. Still, polycrylic comes with a great deal according to its cost.

Moreover, finishes also vary according to their gloss levels. You can pick any level of gloss as per your wish. Among the levels of gloss including semi-gloss, high-gloss, gloss, satin, and all, semi-gloss is highly recommended.

7 Best Finish for Cornhole Boards Review of 2024:

Don’t fall for tempting ads and waste your money on some bad cornhole board finish. To make your investment fruitful we have come up with the reviews of the 7 best wood stains for cornhole boards. For your information, cornhole boards are also known as corn toss boards or bean bag boards. However, we have listed these products after a lot of research so that you get your desired finish for these boards. let’s have a look.

1. General Finishes High Performance Water Based Topcoat:

Our very first pick for the best finish for bean bag boards is this one from General Finishes. The finish is high performing and until now the most hyped product in the market. People are buying this product like crazy to have the hardest topcoat over their cornhole boards. This is a water-based and semi-gloss polyurethane finish. Thus, there is no risk of leaving a yellowish tint after applying.

Also, for having a water-based formula, this finish provides easy and quick clean-up only with soapy water or warm water. Additionally, this General Finishes Topcoat includes components that are consumer-friendly and has properties of PolyAcrylic Blend.

Moreover, it is incorporated with a UV stabilizer. It protects the layer from tearing or breaking down while exposed to sunlight. Also, it decreases fading of underlying stains of your cornhole board. It helps to have a long-lasting finish. Again, it takes only one to two hours to dry completely between coats.

To talk about its applying process, the topcoat is super easy to apply on cornhole boards. Since the finish is polyurethane, its formula has a stable consistency. It helps to achieve a quick application. This product has also achieved tons of positive reviews from its users. However, some of the users find the product worse for using over bright white paint. It gets yellowed if used on them. Nonetheless, the product comes with a warning. So, you better be aware of this fact.

Pros:

• Contains a semi-gloss pure polyurethane formula
• It is water-based and offers high performance
• Dries quickly and provides the hardest topcoat layer
• Highly durable finish with customer-friendly elements
• Can be used even on hard floors and comes in one quart

Cons:

• Delivers yellow tint if used over bright white paint

2. Minwax 63010444 fast Drying Polyurethane:

Minwax has always been one of the most well-recognized brands for providing the best finish since its establishment. Nothing is exceptional with its63010444 model polyurethane finish for cornhole boards. This topcoat offers a satin finish over your cornhole boards. It is an oil-based finished and best for not only your cornhole boards but also for any wood surface of your home. Hence, you can also use it to decorate and protect your floors, cabinets, doors, and all of your home.

The most satisfying fact about this Minwax 6301044 Polyurethan is that you can use it over both unfinished and finished wood surfaces. The topcoat ensures the long-lasting beautiful appearance of your cornholes. It can hold up against all kinds of environmental odds. It is simply because of its supreme durability. So, certainly, if it is applied on cornhole boards, it is going to serve you many summers.

Unlike other oil-based finishing compounds, this Minwax Polyurethane has fast-drying properties. It takes only about two hours to dry for recoating. This time limit is considerably quick and fair as well. moreover, the finish comes with proper instructions. It helps to bring a better result while applying over the surface of a cornhole board.

Moreover, according to users’ experience, this Minwax 6301044 has managed to create a separate fanbase. With a 4.5-star rating, this polyurethane finish is a great solution for cornhole boards or any other wood surface. However, you may not find the finishing result satisfying enough if you apply this product to light wood. But for dark wood boards, this product is awesome. So, it is surely the best finish for acl or bean bag boards.

Pros:

• Provides a super sleek, smooth, and protective satin finish.
• Long-lasting service with fast-drying components.
• Ideal for both unfinished and finished cornhole board surface.
• Versatile topcoat finish with an easy application process.
• Produced by a leading brand of United States.

Cons:

• Not that suitable if applied over a light wood surface.

3. Minwax 255554444 Polycrylic Protective Wood Finish:

As expressed, Minwax never fails to amaze its customers with the versatile products meant to be the best ones. Therefore, we have included its 255554444 Wood finish that has polycrylic formula. Since this finish is considered a great protector for a wood surface, it is the top quality finish for bean bag boards as well. It increases the beauty of the wood boards and protects the surface from dirt, spills, scratches, and all.

To have a crystal clear finish over your favorite cornhole boards, this finish is can help you out. This finish is also best suited over Minwax colors and stains. So, if you have already painted your corn toss boards with Minwax products, do not hesitate to use this Minwax Polycrylic finish over them.

Moreover, the finish provides a glossy sheen finish with a sleek texture. It adds to the natural beauty of the boards offering a modern and contemporary look. Since the formula is polycrylic, you will not find any strong odor while working with it. Also, this finish is not going to leave any amber or yellowish tint over the board surface.

Again, its ultra fast-drying components allow you to have a quick clear coat. Each recoat requires not more than two hours to dry in between. This way, it helps you to get your job done faster. However, you have to be a bit careful with the tool you are using for its application. Using a quality bristle brush with synthetic material to apply the finish is suggested. Overall, with easy clean-up benefits, the Minwax 255554444 Polycrylic Protective Wood Finish can be your ultimate solution.

Pros:

• High-quality polycrylic wood finish
• Clear coat presents a crystal clear, shiny, and sheen finish
• Comes with ultra-fast drying formula for quick application
• Very low to no odor and easy water clean-up only
• Does not deliver a yellowish tint even on lighter wood surface

Cons:

• Application tools of the wood finish need to be high in quality
• Seems milky when opened right away

4. Rust-Oleum 302736 Triple Thick Polyurethane:

If you are even a bit involved in working with stains and finishes, you must have heard about the brand name Rust-Oleum. After General Finishes and Minwax, Rust-Oleum also comes with the best ACL board finishes. However, its 302736 Triple Thick Polyurethane is arguably the best one till now. It comes with a matte finish and is ideal for use on any cornhole boards you own.

It is basically a one-coat coverage finish with advanced self-leveling components. This is the best specialty about this finish. Its texture and consistency offer triple thickness as a topcoat. Hence, you barely need more than one coat for finishing your bean bag boards. It proves the excellence of the product.

Moreover, even though the formula is thicker, it does not take long to dry. Within two hours the finish dries to the touch. Again, this polyurethane finish is water-based. The formula is highly resistant to scratches and other stains. Hence, it is highly durable and offers the longest protection possible to the cornhole boards

This rust-Oleum finish is capable of covering up to 50 square feet of any wood surface. It delivers a subtle matte finish to the surface making it look gorgeous. Just apply one stroke of the finish over the wood grain and get a smooth, thick, and uniform topcoat. Its self-leveling compounds also ensure a quick finish of the task. With some of the best positive responses, till now people are buying this finish like crazy for their cornhole boards.

Pros:

• High-quality formula with advanced self-leveling components
• Offers a topcoat of triple thick polyurethane
• One coat application is enough and has a fast-drying feature
• Can cover a large area of about 50sqft
• Provides a matte finish with a protective and smooth coating

Cons:

• Requires high-quality bristle brush for application
• The application process is a bit tricky

5. Varathane 200241H Water-based Ultimate Polyurethane:

If you are looking for a great satin finish on your cornhole boards that will increase their natural beauty as well, then try out this one. This is 200241H Water-based Ultimate Polyurethane from Varathane that offers a crystal clear finish. To look for an outstanding resistant finish, nothing can be greater than this one.

It is the ultimate polyurethane finish that comes with everything that you require in a finish. providing the best deal possible, this product is simply slaying the tasks of even professionals out there. It does not have any odor. Also, comes with amazing downright water clean-up.

Including your corn toss boards, all your indoor furniture, cabinets, windows, trims, and all are protected with this Varathane Polyurethane finish. Its satin finish requires only 30 minutes for drying to touch and allows two hours of rest before another coat.

Also, the formula can offer full coverage of about 125sq.ft. It is outstandingly durable and provides awesome clarity. It is also resistant to scratches and other environmental factors. Without yellowing, the satin finish serves you for summer after summer.

Also, for being water-based, this polyurethane finish does not have any strong odor. Also, its easy water clean-up makes the product more acceptable. Overall, preserving the natural color, look, and quality of the cornhole boards, the Varathane 200241H Water-based Ultimate Polyurethane is the best finish for bean bag boards.

Pros:

• Offers a natural and satin finish to the wood surface
• Does not get yellow even after applying over a white wood surface
• Easy to apply and easy to clean-up as well
• Can be achieved non-streaked and smooth topcoat
• Highly durable and ideal for both indoor and outdoor use

Cons:

• Brush strokes can take place if not applied trickily

6. Rust-Oleum 260165 Ultimate Polyurethane:

We have included another Rust-Oleum Polyurethane as the best finish for cornhole boards. This ultimate polyurethane from Rust-Oleum comes with a model number of 260165. Offering a matte finish, this Rust-Oleum polyurethane is also in constant demand. With almost a five-star rating, this product is now many professionals’ favorite.

Moreover, this is a water-based polyurethane that has easy application consistency. You can predict the fame of this finish seeing such positive reviews given by its true users. Its acrylic formula helps in quick drying and easy cleaning with water and soap.

This polyurethane finish holds the capability of covering about 150 square feet of area with its one-quart formula. To talk about its drying efficiency, this finish takes about one hour for drying to the touch. But if you are up to applying multiple coats, you better take two hours of gap between each coat.

Speaking of its finishing result, it offers an excellent smooth finish. The protective layer is highly resistant to scratch, moisture, and other odds. Also, its matte finish helps in reducing smudges and appealing appearances due to fingerprints. So, overall, with everything good, this Rust-Oleum Ultimate Polyurethane might be the one you are looking for.

Pros:

• Great polyurethane finish with the ultimate quality formula
• Offers matte finish and resists scratches and streaks
• Does not allow any smudge or fingerprint stains
• Dries fast, easy application, and smooth clean-up

Cons:

• Not suitable for fancy woodworking projects

7. SEAL-ONCE Nano+Poly penetrating Wood Sealer with Polyurethane:

Our last but not least selected finish for cornhole boards is this one from SEAL-ONCE. If you are looking for a great finish also within a budget-friendly rate, then this one has to offer you a great deal. This product is available in several color tints all with rich color for customer demand. According to the users’ experience, this product is certainly above average.

It is simply because its use adds to the beauty of the natural wood grain. This finish also helps in extending the natural life of your cornhole boards once applied. Without altering the natural properties of the wood, this finish offers a smoother finish.

The properties of this finish formula are also worth appreciating. It lets the wood breathe through its existence. The sealer resists all the possible damages and is susceptible to any hostile conditions. To talk about the quality of the product, it is surely the one you cannot ignore.

The brand SEAL-ONCE produces each of these finishes using advanced technology. Using the Nano-Particle and cutting-edge technology, these finishes are made. Therefore, this Nano+Poly Penetrating Wood Sealer prevents all kinds of water vapor damages. Consequently, you get a cornhole board finish with years of service.

Overall, with a flexible and breathable barrier, this SEAL-ONCE polyurethane is something that you should try on your cornhole boards.

Pros:

• The formula is made using nanotechnology for better use
• Offers a flexible coat over the wood surface so that the wood can breath
• Prevents all kinds of peel, crack, breakage, and all
• Prevent water intrusion and water vapor damages

Cons:

• Might not penetrate deep as expected.

How to get a Smooth Finish on Corn Toss Boards to Make it Slippery:

Getting a smooth finish on corn toss boards to make it slippery is an easy process if you know how to do it. Well, first you will need some required materials including,

• Polyurethane or Polycrylic finish
• Sandpaper
• Paintbrush or foam brush

Step – 1: Clean off the surface:

First thing first, clean your corn toss board surface so that there is no dirt and debris. Also, keep the working environment clean well along with the board surface.

Step – 2: Apply the finish over the surface:

When you are done wiping down the surface, it is time to apply the finish. Use a paintbrush or foam brush if you are applying poly. Using a roller might produce air bubbles while applying. So, avoid using it. You can also use tools that are indicated in the instructions of the finish container you are using. Dip the brush into the finish and apply over the board surface. Ensure vertical strokes for a perfect finish appearance.

Apply each coat evenly. This way put four to eight coats as needed. Make sure you let each coat be cured before applying another layer of coat. Work in a well-ventilated area for ensuring fast drying. If you see air bubbles are appearing, use a fan after applying the coat. Make an even coat of the finish.

Step – 3: Sand before the last coat:

Before you apply the last coat, make sure you sand the surface well. Use 320-grit sandpaper for this purpose. This fine sandpaper helps to have a smooth finish. If your corn toss board already has decals on it, avoid sanding over them. Then apply the final coat and buff it. If needed buff with wax. This way, you get a smooth and super slippery finish on your corn toss boards.

Is Polyurethane or Polycrylic Better to Seal Corn Hole Boards?

Basically, cornhole board owners use both polyurethane and polycrylic as finishing compounds. Though, polyurethane is the most famous and well-known. However, both finishes offer different levels of benefits.

More often polyurethane comes with both water-based and oil-based formulas. Nonetheless, for finishing over cornhole boards, water-based polyurethane is mostly used. For a longer-lasting and well-protected finish, using a poly over the wood surface is a great idea. Even though it comes at a higher rate and also possesses a complicated application, using it is worthy.

On the other hand, polycrylic finishes are fast-drying and offer only a water-based clear coat. They are also comparatively cheaper in price. polycrylic adds only a little slide to the corn hole boards but leaves a super glossy look. If your boards have decals or other arts and crafts on them, using polycrylic provides a better result.

However, if you are using a polyacrylic finish you have to make sure to use a synthetic bristle brush for the application. So, it is all up to you and your need whether to choose polyurethane or polyacrylic.

FAQs:

Question: Can you put polycrylic over vinyl decals?

Answer: You can certainly put polycrylic over vinyl decals. In fact, this finish is considered one of the great products for applying over wider ranges of surfaces including vinyl decals. Most of the time polycrylic finish comes with either in spray or hand-paint system.

For easy application, you can go for the spray polycrylic finish. unfortunately, if you use the spray over vinyl decals, over time the decals get curled up. It makes the appearance ugly. That is why it is important to hand-paint the polycrylic over vinyl decals to have a long-lasting and beautiful finish.

Question: How to get polyurethane slick?

Answer: Getting polyurethane slick over a surface is quite easy if you follow some tricks. First of all, clean the surface where you applied the polyurethane finish with a damp rag. Then inspect it. If you find the topcoat thick then sand it with a particular grit which is ideal for the task.

Sand carefully and go for the uneven places. When you are done sanding, inspect if the surface has even sheen. When you achieve an even sheen, stop sanding and start buffing with wax. Now, if the polyurethane coat is not that thick then apply another layer of the finish to make it slick.

Question: Why you should apply semi-gloss poly on corn toss boards?

Answer: Generally, poly comes with different gloss levels for the sake of customers. However, among all the levels of gloss, it is highly recommended to go for the one that offers a semi-gloss finish. It is simply because other gloss levels can make your corn toss boards.

Again, some deliver a sheen with an ultra-shiny appearance. They do not make the boards look great. But semi-gloss finish brings an excellent look to corn toss boards by adding to its natural elegance. So, you should apply semi-gloss poly on corn toss boards.

Q: How to make bean bag boards slippery?

To make cornhole boards slippery, start by sanding the surface smooth with 220-grit sandpaper. Clean off the dust, then apply a high-quality polyurethane or polycrylic finish using a foam brush or paintbrush. Ensure each coat is thin and even, and allow it to dry completely. Lightly sand between each coat and apply at least two additional coats, skipping the sanding on the final coat for a glossy finish. For temporary extra slickness, dust the boards with cornstarch or baby powder before gameplay. This method ensures a smooth, durable, and slippery surface, enhancing the cornhole playing experience.

Q: what type of paint to use in cornhole boards?

For painting cornhole boards, the best options are acrylic latex paint and enamel paint. Acrylic latex paint is favored for its strong adhesion to wood, durability, water resistance, and ease of cleaning. It dries relatively quickly and offers a smooth, vibrant finish. Enamel paint, on the other hand, is extremely durable and resistant to chipping and wear, making it ideal for outdoor use. It typically provides a glossy finish that enhances the appearance of the boards.

Before painting, prepare the boards by sanding them to smooth out any rough spots, then clean the surface to remove dust and debris. Apply a high-quality wood primer, like Kilz 2 Multi-Surface Stain Blocking Primer/Sealer, to seal the wood and ensure better paint adhesion. After the paint has dried, apply a clear polyurethane sealant, such as Minwax Fast-Drying Polyurethane or Rust-Oleum Ultimate Spar Urethane, to protect the surface from scratches, moisture, and UV rays.

Q: Epoxy Clear Coat vs Polyurethane for cornhole boards?

When choosing between epoxy clear coat and polyurethane for cornhole boards, consider the following:

Epoxy Clear Coat

• Durability: Extremely durable and resistant to scratches and impacts.
• Finish: Provides a thick, glossy finish that enhances the appearance.
• UV Resistance: Generally less UV-resistant, which can cause yellowing over time if exposed to sunlight.
• Application: Requires careful mixing and application, with longer curing times.

Polyurethane

• Durability: Very durable and suitable for outdoor use.
• Finish: Available in various finishes (glossy, satin, matte) and provides a thinner coat compared to epoxy.
• UV Resistance: Better UV resistance, especially with outdoor-grade polyurethane, preventing yellowing.
• Application: Easier to apply with faster drying times and less chance of application errors.

For outdoor cornhole boards, polyurethane is often preferred due to its UV resistance and ease of application. Epoxy provides a more durable, glossy finish but is best for indoor use or where UV exposure is minimal. we hope you will be enjoyed the best cornhole boards finish reviews of 2024. Thank you.

Last Updated on September 18, 2024 by Rogers Weber

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