Best Polyurethane Finish For Stair Treads

It s called the minwax 63010444 and it has the tag of fast drying with it.

Best polyurethane finish for stair treads.

Some popular types include. Others remain crystal clear. Choosing a finish the simplest way to finish oak stair treads is with two coats of clear polyurethane which enhances both the grain and the natural reddish to goldish tinge of the wood. However if your project is a light color whether stained or unfinished wood it is best to protect it with a finish that remains crystal clear.

Surface wood finishes these types dry on the surface of the wood. The best kind of finish will differ based on the type of wood that you are covering with polyurethane. Crystal clear or amber tone. Water based polyurethanes dry faster between coats and are easier to work with.

Homeowners and contractors choose oak for stair treads because of oak s strength resilience and durability. A satin polyurethane finish will protect the stain and provide a suitable surface for foot traffic. On the other hand it dries quickly and doesn t have such a strong odor. Many clear finishes add a rich warm amber tone to the wood.

The next one from our list is a 32 fluid oz polyurethane finish from minwax. First thing first the minwax 63010444 is a wood only finish. Apply the polyurethane using a good quality brush starting in one corner and working across the tread with the grain. Surface finishes are known for making the wood more durable but they also don t look as natural.

You can choose whichever look you prefer for your project. Applying polyurethane to new stairs can be tricky if you have to use the stairs while the finish is drying but you can get around this by coating only every other step at one time. Oak stair treads usually sport a bullnose or rounded edge along their length. For example wooden tabletops would benefit from a gloss finish top coat as this will improve the appearance and enhance the natural color.

Additionally water based polyurethane is not as thick as oil based polyurethane so you may need to apply up to four or more coats. Water based polyurethane can be more temperamental. The finish can raise the grain of the wood and is susceptible to watermarks. Let s check down the facts and if it s really worth your attention or not.

Apply the polyurethane slowly and evenly so as to avoid bubbles. A good quality water based polyurethane is recommended in lieu of oil based.