Hardwood Floors June/July 2024

AT THE SITE Mastery in Finishing (Continued)

with exposure to some of the more-aggressive solvent finishes such as universal alcohol sealers, acid-cured or moisture-cured urethanes, or high solvent acetone, MEK, or toluene. The nap of the applicator or roller sleeve will dictate the coverage-rate of the finish being applied. These applicators may shed. It is crucial to remove the loose fibers from the applicator or roller sleeves

Staging Area: Set up a staging area to place all tools, finishes, supplies, and other items necessary for the job. This staging area should be inside the jobsite, directly accessible from the floor being coated. This step minimizes unnecessary trips to and from your work vehicle, which could introduce potential contamination to the floor. It also allows all of the materials being used to acclimate to the interior temperature of the jobsite. HVAC Systems: The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems need to be operating and maintained at “normal living conditions.”

prior to application of any finish. • Brushes may be made from natural bristles, nylon bristles, foam, or other synthetic materials.

Staging area

• Non-abrasive buffing pads are commonly used for stains, natural oils, or hardwax oils. A secondary polishing pad, clean carpet remnant, or similar pad is normally used for burnishing and removal of the stains or oils. Some manufacturers then suggest the use of terry cloth towels for that final step. Do not use an old applicator for one type or sheen of finish that was previously used on another. A contaminated applicator can cause streaky finish or undesirable results. The cost of applicator sleeves and refills is minimal compared to recoating or resanding an entire job. Choose the Right Finish: Select the appropriate finish based on your customer’s desired look, durability needs, and lifestyle. Read and understand the mixing and application instructions. Most manufacturers recommend using products within a designated system, and from the same manufacturer. Before using different manufacturers for stain and finish products, check with the manufacturers for compatibility. Prepare the Finish: Identify how many square feet you need to coat, and secure enough product to do the job. When calculating how much finish you will need for the job, mix slightly more than you think you will need in case you happen to lose product during application (vents, cracks, holes, etc.). Batch together the appropriate amount of product to complete the entire job (based on the recommended coverage rates). Batching ensures consistency in what you’re laying down, in case there is any variance from

Applicators

Extreme temperatures (above 80°F or below 60°F) or humidity levels (above 50 percent or below 30 percent) can affect the drying and curing process of the finishes. Airflow: Airflow is important to the drying process of the finish. Stagnant air does not allow the finish to dry properly, however, during application, air movement can cause finishes to dry prematurely, which can negatively affect the end result. Air movement can also force airborne particles into the drying finish film. When applicable, set the thermostat to come on about an hour after the finish has been applied. Do not turn the HVAC completely off unless it’s required due to a finish being applied or for safety purposes. Turn all ceiling fans off during the finish application. Application Tools: The applicator you use should be determined by the finish manufacturer’s specific instructions. Understand which type is recommended and how to use it properly. • Applicators for film-forming finishes include wood blocks, t-bars, rollers, and cut-in pads. The fibers, foam, and adhesives used in some of these applicators may break down and degrade

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