In addition to regular sweeping and vacuuming, one of the ways people can keep their hardwood looking beautiful for decades is to schedule wood floor refinishing services. A relatively simple process, it involves sanding to remove what is left of the existing finish before applying new polyurethane layers. Some also opt to add a staining product, while others prefer the natural look. However, in exchange for many years of reliable use, homeowners also have to allow the floor time to dry. How long this interval lasts depends on the aspects described below.

The Products Used

Oil-based polyurethane takes longer to dry than its water-based counterpart. Each coat requires 24 to 48 hours to dry fully. If your floors feature three coats, for example, they need at least three days to dry. Stain application prior to polyurethane use requires an extra 24 hours, with darker stains taking anywhere from 36 to 48 hours to dry as per the manufacturer’s instructions. Water-based polyurethane dries in four to six hours following stain application but does not last as long as floors featuring oil-based products.

Keep in mind that drying is not the same as curing. Once the solvent has evaporated and you can walk in socks on the flooring, the urethane molecules combine with oxygen to cross-link, a process that hardens the product so it protects the floors from stains, furniture, and foot traffic. Both water and oil-based polyurethanes take about four weeks to fully cure.

Temperature & Humidity

While it is generally possible to move furniture back onto hardwood floors after four days and area rugs after 30 days, the waiting period also depends on your climate. If you reside in a humid region, it takes longer for moisture to evaporate from the flooring. Ideally, keep the room between 70 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit and use a dehumidifier to speed the process.

Determine dryness levels after wood floor refinishing by observing the surface. If a water-based polyurethane was used, the floors will feature a milk-like coloring until they dry. Oil-based products have a beautiful satin or matte sheen when they are ready for use.

Schedule wood floor refinishing with Carl Bohlmeyer Floor Sanding to keep your floors looking pristine. The locally-owned company has provided Lincoln, NE, homes and businesses with wood floor refinishing and resurfacing services for over 50 years, all for competitive prices. Call (402) 423-7225 today with questions or schedule a free consultation online. Like the Facebook page for professional floor maintenance tips.