How to Apply Floor Finish (If Needed)
This step only applies if you installed unfinished solid hardwood. Most modern flooring (LVP, laminate, engineered wood) comes pre-finished and doesn't need this step.
Quick Summary
Time needed
3-5 days
Cost
$200-500
Difficulty
Very Hard
Skip This Step If: You installed pre-finished hardwood, engineered wood, laminate, LVP, or any other pre-finished flooring. This step is ONLY for unfinished solid hardwood that needs to be sanded, stained, and sealed.
Do You Need to Finish Your Floor?
Unfinished hardwood arrives as raw wood with no protective coating. You must sand it smooth, optionally stain it, and seal it with polyurethane. This is a multi-day process requiring specialized equipment.
Consider Hiring a Pro: Finishing hardwood floors is one of the hardest DIY tasks. Professional floor sanders rent for $80-150/day, and mistakes are hard to fix. Many DIYers install unfinished hardwood themselves but hire professionals for finishing.
Basic Finishing Process
This is an overview. Each step requires detailed knowledge and practice. Consult manufacturer instructions and consider professional help.
Step 1: Sand the Floor
Rent a drum sander and edge sander. Sand in multiple passes with progressively finer grits (36, 60, 80, 120).
Warning: Drum sanders can gouge floors in seconds if used incorrectly. Never let the drum sit in one spot while spinning. Practice on scrap wood first.
Step 2: Vacuum and Tack
Remove ALL dust with vacuum and tack cloth. Any remaining dust will show in the finish.
Step 3: Apply Stain (Optional)
Test stain colors on scrap wood. Apply evenly, wipe excess, let dry 24 hours. This step is optional - you can use clear finish for natural wood color.
Step 4: Apply Polyurethane (3 Coats)
Apply water-based or oil-based polyurethane. Three coats minimum. Light sand between coats with 220-grit. Allow full cure time (7-14 days).
- • Coat 1: Thin, even application
- • Sand lightly after 24 hours
- • Coat 2: Full coverage
- • Sand lightly after 24 hours
- • Coat 3: Final coat, no sanding
Why Hire a Professional
- • Floor sanders are difficult to control and can cause permanent damage
- • Achieving even stain coverage requires experience
- • Polyurethane application shows every imperfection
- • The process takes a week and room must be off-limits
- • Professional cost ($2-4/sq ft) often worth it vs. rental + materials + risk
Ready for the Next Step?
With your floor finished (or this step skipped for pre-finished flooring), you can carefully move furniture back into the room.