Hardwood Floor Finishing

Q. What is the purpose of Minwax^®Water Based Polyurethane Base Coat?

A. The Base Coat seals the wood to prevent a tannin reaction between it and Minwax^®Water Based Polyurethane for Floors. Many water-based finishes have higher pH levels than oil-based finishes. When they come in contact with the tannins that exist naturally in wood, a discoloration can occur. Water Based Polyurethane Base Coat must be applied on unstained floors prior to applying and Minwax^®Water Based Polyurethane for Floors.

Applying a base coat may be unfamiliar to DIYers but not to flooring contractors. When using water-based floor finishes, professionals almost always apply a base coat.

Q. How is Minwax^®Water Based Polyurethane Base Coat different from Minwax^®Sanding Sealer?

A. Water Based Polyurethane Base Coat is formulated for use with Minwax^®Water Based Polyurethane for Floors. Its main function is to seal the wood, preventing a tannin reaction. Applying Water Based Polyurethane Base Coat is required on all unstained floors.

Water Based Polyurethane Base Coat should never be sanded. Doing so can expose bare wood and a tannin reaction may result.

In contrast, Minwax^®Sanding Sealer is formulated for use with Minwax^®Super-Fast Drying Polyurethane for Floors. Its function is to provide a first coat that is then sanded smooth to remove any imperfections.

Q. Should Minwax^®Water Based Polyurethane Base Coat be used over stain?

A. Minwax^®Water Based Polyurethane Base Coat is not recommended over stained floors. Stains seal the wood, preventing a tannin reaction, so the Base Coat is not necessary. Also, better adhesion is attained when Water Based Polyurethane for floors is applied directly over the stain.

WARNING! Removal of old paint by sanding, scraping or other means may generate dust or fumes that contain lead. Exposure to lead dust or fumes may cause brain damage or other adverse health effects, especially in children or pregnant women. Controlling exposure to lead or other hazardous substances requires the use of proper protective equipment such as a properly fitted respirator (NIOSH approved) and proper containment and cleanup. For more information, call the National Lead Information Center at 1-800-424-LEAD (in US) or contact your local health authority.

Step 1: Prepare Floor

Floors that need a complete refinishing: Sand floor to bare wood to remove existing stain and finish, first using coarse sandpaper (40-60 grit) working to medium-grade (80 grit). Continue floor preparation by following sanding instructions for New Wood Floors, below.

New Wood Floors: Sand floor using 100 grit sandpaper. Follow with 120 grit sandpaper. Do not use steel wool. Remove all sanding dust. Thoroughtly wipe floor with a clean cloth dampened with water or mineral spirits. Allow to dry completely.

Step 2: Apply Base Coat

Base Coat should be at room temperature for best results. Gently invert container 3 - 4- times before use. Apply a thin coat of Minwax^® Water Based Polyurethane Base Coat using a synthetic pad applicator. Maintain a wet edge to avoid lap marks. Allow to dry for 2 hours. DO NOT SAND.

Note: On white oak floors, a second coat of Minwax^® Water Based Polyurethane Base Coat should be applied.

Step 3: Apply Topcoat

Apply Minwax^®Water Based Polyurethane for Floors following label directions.

CLEAN-UP: Clean application tools with warm water immediately after use.
COVERAGE RATE: Approximately 400 - 500 square feet per gallon.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature. Keep from freezing.