How to Apply Varathane to Wood Floors

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Things You'll Need

  • Vacuum

  • Tack cloths

  • 2-inch painter's masking tape

  • Particle or breather masks

  • Stain roller with extension handle

  • Roller pan with grille

  • Electric floor buffer

Wood floor

Applying Varathane floor finish to a new or resurfaced wood floor enhances the beauty and texture of the wood, and provides a durable, low-maintenance protection from scuffs and scratches. Available in gloss, semi-gloss and matte finishes, Varathane's self-leveling formula makes it easy to apply, eliminates brush strokes and lasts for years. Applying Varathane requires using only a few tools and following a simple procedure.

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Step 1

Vacuum and use a tack cloth to remove all debris and dust from the area where you plan to apply the Varathane.

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Step 2

Protect the bottom edge of the baseboards by applying painter's masking tape to the full length of each wall in the room.

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Step 3

Apply the Varathane in line with the wood grain and flooring boards. Begin against the end wall, at either side, working slowly across the room to cover approximately 5 to 7 feet of floor, depending on the length of your stroke. Coat the roller frequently with Varathane, and apply in long, smooth strokes, overlapping each stroke to eliminate drip lines and fully cover the floor surface with an even layer of the finish. Use a paintbrush to reach the inside corners with Varathane where the roller might not fit.

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Step 4

Allow the first coat of varathane to dry completely, for a minimum of 24 hours, or until the surface is no longer tacky to the touch. Use a floor buffer equipped with a polishing disc to buff the entire floor area. Buffing helps heat the finish to increase bonding and saturation into the wood.

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Step 5

Use tack cloths to wipe the surface of the Varathaned floor to remove any dust or fibers left by the buffing pad.

Step 6

Repeat Step 3 to complete the second coat of Varathane. Allow the second coat to dry for a minimum of 24 hours or until the surface is no longer tacky to the touch.

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Step 7

Repeat the buffing process to ensure bonding and to bring out the sheen of the finished surface.

Step 8

Remove the painter's masking tape when the final coat is fully dry.

Tip

Apply a minimum of 2 to 3 coats of Varathane to ensure a lasting floor finish.

Clean the floor with a dry or wet mop to maintain surface shine and cleanliness.

Warning

For health protection, wear a breather mask or particle mask during application of the Varathane finish.

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