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Stairs are high-traffic areas, so you should apply at least 3 coats of polyurethane. The same is true for water-based and oil-based poly alike. If you applied a sealer coat, you may only need two coats of water-based polyurethane., but as always, keep going until you get a smooth finish.
Can water based polyurethane be used on stairs?
Luckily there are quality polyurethane products you can use to cover and protect your stairs. These water-based and oil-based products create a hard translucent shell over your hardwood steps, protecting them from scratches, scuffs, water damage, and even dents.
Do you have to sand between coats of water based polyurethane?
Sanding between coats is not required for adhesion as long as the time between coats is less than 6 hours. However, screening or sanding between coats usually produces a smoother better looking finish. A minimum of 3 coats of finish are recommended. Sand between coats with 120-150 grit sandpaper or maroon abrasive pad.
How do you apply water based polyurethane to wood stairs?
Apply a thin coat of polyurethane onto the wood stairs. Start at the top stair and work your way toward the bottom. Run the brush along the stair using long, uniform strokes. Move the brush in one direction only – in the direction of the woods’ grain.
How long should polyurethane dry on stairs?
Wait 24 hours before walking on the stairs and avoid using rugs, cleaners or subjecting the stairs to heavy traffic for about one week. Polyurethane takes about 30 days to fully cure.
Is water based stain good for stairs?
Water Based or Oil Based Stair Stain No matter what home you go into, stairs are a great focal point and can be either decorative or plain. Water based stains come in a larger variety of colors but is much thicker than oil based stain. Oil based stains tend to be darker in color but are known to withstand more abuse.
What polyurethane is best for stairs?
The Minwax wipe-on is an excellent water-based wipe on Poly and probably the best polyurethane for stair railings. This polyurethane finish provides a durable layer of topcoat protection that is thinner than regular poly, making it an excellent choice for touching up small worn or scratched areas.
How many coats of water based polyurethane do you need on hardwood floors?
So, how many coats of polyurethane to add? You should apply at least three coats of polyurethane on hardwood floors.
How do I get a smooth finish with water based polyurethane?
First use a degreaser cleaner like Formula 409 or Fantastik to clean away any buildup of grease or cooking oil. Scuff-sand the old finish with fine synthetic wool, then seal with Zinsser SealCoat. Sand the seal coat with fine synthetic wool, then brush on two to three coats of water-based poly to complete the job.
What happens if you don’t sand between coats of polyurethane?
For some types of poly, nothing happens if you don’t sand between coats of polyurethane. However, most polyurethane will not adhere properly if you skip sanding dust nibs and brush marks on the finish. The polyurethane finish will eventually peel off or become deformed.
How do you apply polyurethane without brush marks?
How to Avoid Brush Marks in Polyurethane Use a foam brush or a lambswool applicator instead of a brush. Use a natural-bristle brush rather than a synthetic one if you are using a bristle brush. Thin your polyurethane with paint thinner, mixing it with a paint stir stick.
How long before I can walk on stained stairs?
Keep off the steps as much as you can for at least 24 hours after the last coat, after this time, walk up and down them with socks on only. After 72 hours, they will be cured enough to walk on as usual. If you need to use the staircase, consider doing polyurethaning every other step.
Should you polyurethane painted stairs?
Polyurethane is supposed to protect any painted or stained surface. Plus, it makes it easier for you to wipe down the protected surface in the future. Please note that when you apply this, it has a cloudy appearance but it dries completely clear.
Is there a water based polyurethane?
Water-Based Polyurethane Provides a clear finish with low odor. If you love the natural look of maple, apply a water-based (waterborne) polyurethane.
What do you use to seal wood stairs?
Polyurethane Varnish – a clear water based polyurethane varnish is the simplest to use. Apply it with a brush but bear in mind it dries quickly so make sure you work fast. The second coat can be applied within 24 hours and it dries to a hard and durable finish.
What kind of stain do you use on interior stairs?
Some of the more penetrating finish types include: linseed, Danish and tung. Tung is actually a popular finish among woodworking professionals because of the easy application and how it maintains a natural look. Penetrating finishes are often best applied with a cloth or rag.
What is the difference between oil and water based polyurethane?
THICKNESS AND HARDNESS: Oil based poly is a thicker poly, but it is also softer. Water-based poly, an acrylic product, is a thinner, but harder coating. Oil poly can be more susceptible to dents, while water-based poly can be more susceptible to surface scratching.
