Thinning Polyurethane For Floors

Applying oil based polyurethane.

Thinning polyurethane for floors.

If you are going to use a polyurethane finish then go for the best polyurethane for floors. But lets start from the beginning. Polyurethane decorates and protects your floors at the same time. Brush the sealer on with a natural bristle brush using long even strokes.

Be sure to catch any runs. So the logic behind this myth which is fairly new is that the finish will dry faster if the thinner evaporates faster. Start out with 36 grit paper then 60 then 100 grit. You can read more about them in this article.

For floor projects use a square buff orbital or disk type sander with 220 grit sandpaper or the equivalent grit pad or screen specifically designed for sanding between coats. Buy on amazon. Some stains are self sealing. But like all varnishes polyurethane dries in two steps.

If you are going to use a polyurethane finish then go for the best polyurethane for floors. Check the can for. There are two main forms of polyurethane oil based and water borne poly. Polyurethane is a common modern wood finish that can be purchased with either an oil or a water base.

Thinning with naphtha makes polyurethane dry faster. The brand of polyurethane will have a huge impact on how your floors look as well as how long they last. The first is evaporation of the thinner. Do not use a belt or drum type sander for sanding between coats.

Apply a thin coat of minwax fast drying polyurethane using a high quality natural or foam brush. Thin your oil based polyurethane with two parts polyurethane and one part mineral spirits. If you are sanding a floor for a clear finish some call it a natural finish you must sand the floor at least 3 times. You may choose to thin oil based polyurethanes with mineral spirits or naphtha but for most applications this is not necessary.

Thinning can help the finish flow into fine details and nooks and crannies with less buildup. Check the manufacturer s recommendations on the product label. Naphtha evaporates much faster than mineral spirits or turpentine. If the floor is to be stained you must skip less grits and go with 36 60 80 then 100 or 120.

Pour the products into a glass jar and gently stir the mixture with a flat stir stick. Because you want to your finish coats to be less heavy because the polyurethane has thickened over time or just to clean your brushes or messes.