Topcoat Showdown: Comparing 4 Sheens Across 5 Fusion Colors

When it comes to protecting your painted furniture, choosing the right topcoat is key to achieving both durability and the perfect finish. In this Topcoat Showdown, we put 4 different sheens to the test on 5 of our most popular Fusion Mineral Paint colours from top to bottom: Coal Black, Midnight Blue, Algonquin, Bedford, and Casement. From Tough Coat Matte to our new Ultra Guard Flat and Satin, all the way to Tough Coat Gloss, you’ll see how the different topcoats dramatically affect the final look of each colour.

Topcoat Showdown: How We Did It

We applied each topcoat from left to right: Ultra Guard Flat, Tough Coat Matte, Ultra Guard Satin, and Tough Coat Gloss. The topcoats were brushed on from top to bottom, with painter’s tape separating each section. This simple trick allowed us to clearly show the ‘before’ and ‘after’ effects of each topcoat.

Once the tape was removed, the difference between the raw paint and the finished topcoat could be easily seen, making it obvious how each sheen brings a unique look and feel to the paint.

Be sure to watch the video HERE so you can see the top coats uniqueness!

Explore the Sheens

We offer a range of topcoats to suit any style:

• Ultra Guard Flat: Ultra Flat with extra protection and longer open time for easy application—great for larger projects.
• Tough Coat Matte: Soft, velvety finish for a modern, matte look.
• Ultra Guard Satin: Mid-level shine for durability without too much gloss.
• Tough Coat Gloss: High-gloss, mirror-like finish—perfect for bold statements, especially on dark colors.

Each sheen offers a unique look, giving you the flexibility to match your project’s style and needs.

Whether you love the velvety feel of matte finishes or prefer the high shine of gloss, we’ve got a topcoat to match your style. The Tough Coat Matte leaves a smooth, soft, matte finish that’s perfect for creating a modern, understated look. In contrast, Ultra Guard Flat provides a super flat finish, but with added protection and a longer open time for easier application.

If you’re looking for a bit more sheen, the Ultra Guard Satin offers a beautiful mid-level shine, perfect for those who want durability without too much gloss. Finally, the Tough Coat Gloss gives a high-gloss, mirror-like finish that makes a bold statement, especially on dark colours like Coal Black and Midnight Blue.

Topcoat Showdown: Why Ultra Guard is a Game-Changer

One of the standout features of Ultra Guard is its longer open time, making it easier to apply over large surfaces. If you’re tackling a bigger project like a dining table or a set of cabinets, we recommend using a brush or microfiber roller for an even, streak-free finish. The longer open time means less rushing and more control, giving you a smooth and flawless finish every time.

For smaller projects or those who prefer a finer application, Tough Coat can be applied with our specially designed Tough Coat Applicator Sponge. This method ensures a thin, even coat with no brushstrokes. If you find that your Tough Coat is drying too quickly, try adding our extender to increase the open working time, allowing you to finesse the finish before it dries.

Water-Based and Non-Yellowing

One of the biggest benefits of all our water-based topcoats is that they are non-yellowing. Unlike traditional oil-based topcoats, which can yellow over time, especially on lighter colours, our water-based formulas keep your whites looking crisp and clean. This makes them the perfect choice for light colours like Casement where maintaining the integrity of the colour is critical.

Choose Your Sheen to Suit Your Style with Your Own Topcoat Showdown

With Ultra Guard and Tough Coat, you now have a wide range of sheens to choose from—each suited to different styles and finishes. Whether you prefer the understated elegance of a matte finish or want to make a bold statement with a glossy shine, we’ve got the perfect topcoat for you. The versatility of these products makes it easy to customize the look and feel of your project to suit your personal taste.

Now, with these easy-to-use topcoats, your projects can achieve a professional, durable finish that not only looks beautiful but will stand the test of time. So, whether you’re flipping a thrift store find or giving new life to a family heirloom, choose the right sheen, apply with care, and watch your project transform before your eyes!