Hi all. Long time reader, first post! I'll get right to it: When using walnut, is there any good reason to use Zinsser Sealcoat as the first coat if I plan to build a finish with wipe-on poly, Waterlox, or other oil-based varnish? I know it sands well and dries fast, but so does the first coat of poly honestly. I'm using kiln dried walnut, no odors, resins, etc that need to be sealed.
I'm also wondering if there would ultimately be a difference in appearance using Sealcoat + varnish vs just varnish. I've done a couple samples and the Sealcoat doesn't darken quite as much as the poly or Waterlox (some were too close to tell), but I'm guessing the color will catch up once the additional varnish coats are applied over the Sealcoat?
Finally, would Sealcoat help build an initial film in sapwood-y areas that quickly suck up the first few coats of finish?
I usually sand to 120 or 180 and then sand the first coat with 320. Thanks!