Flat Out Flat (FOF) is a truly "Flat" water-based topcoat with a velvety look and feel. Made with a durable self cross-linking acrylic, its performance characteristics are similar to High Performance. In addition, it may be used over or under High Performance. Because of the increased matting agents used to create the "Matte look", this finish will have less clarity, show fingerprints more and slightly less durability than High Performance. It is recommended for low-use projects other than kitchen cabinets and table tops.

Need some inspiration? Visit the General Finishes Design Center or Pinterest Board for furniture topcoat ideas.

VOC (EU): 100 g/L

Note this product is now continuing, but also see the new High Performance Dead Flat finish for a very low sheen finish.

FAQ

What is the difference between Flat Out Flat and High Performance Topcoats?
Flat Out Flat is a matte water based topcoat with a velvety feel and was developed as a durable alternative to our Satin Wax. Choose this product if you want a finish that looks more like wax and your project will not require high use. Like wax, it dries softer to the touch than High Performance when completely cured, and it will show more marring and fingerprints. Flat Out Flat is made with a stable self cross-linking acrylic instead of urethane.

High Performance is urethane based and contains less matting agents which result in a slightly harder finish. For that reason, High Performance is the best choice for high use areas such as table tops and kitchen cabinets. Both topcoats have similar water resistance, but High Performance offers greater clarity.  

Use with Oil Based Finishes: Let oil-based finishes dry for 72 hours before applying High Performance or Flat Out Flat top coat.

Can I Mix General Finishes Flat Out Flat and High Performance Topcoat?
No, you should not mix Flat Out Flat and High Performance topcoats. They are engineered with different resin systems.

You can mix High Performance topcoats to adjust sheen. For example, you can mix HP Flat and HP gloss to obtain a different sheen.

What is the best way to obtain a more durable finish with a flat sheen?
The popular flat sheens are lovely but they have different attributes than glossy finishes. The flatting agents required to reduce sheen in flat or matte topcoats also slightly reduce clarity, water resistance, durability and resistance to chemicals such as ketchup, soap, chemical cleaners, or ammonia. This is not much of a concern in low use areas but is important for table tops or kitchen cabinets.

Here is a tip to improve the performance of your finish and still obtain a matte sheen:  Use a semi-gloss sheen for the first two coats and a flat for the third for optimum performance. 

General Finishes is constantly seeking new resins and additives to improve the performance of our finishes.

How Can I Tell if a Water Based Topcoat is Dry?
If the finish feels cool to the touch, it's not ready. When you can sand it to a dry powder, it is ready for the next coat. Dry times will be longer if it is raining, cold, or humid. When in doubt, waiting longer is always better.

Which Is Better as a Sealer? Topcoat or Wax?
It depends on whether you are looking for aesthetics or durability.

A topcoat will provide greater durability and protection than wax finishes over time. While wax finishes are lovely, they typically show wear (fingerprints) and are not permanent, requiring semi-annual to annual maintenance. Wax is a low durability finish. It’s fine for a decorative piece that will receive light traffic. It is absolutely not strong enough for tables, kitchen cabinets, or other surfaces that will see frequent use. 

Wax takes a bit of elbow grease to apply.

Furthermore, nothing adheres well to wax, which can impact future finish changes. Even though there is internet chatter about removing wax with 3rd party products or mineral spirits, the risk of a failure in re-coating over a wax finish is very high and sometimes impossible.

If you love a wax finish, try General Finishes Satin Finishing Wax. If you want the look and feel of wax with more durability, use our General Finishes Flat Out Flat Topcoat. For even more protection, use General Finishes High Performance Topcoat.