Water based polyurethanes dry faster between coats and are easier to work with.
Best polyurethane finish for stair treads.
A good quality water based polyurethane is recommended in lieu of oil based.
Some popular types include.
Many clear finishes add a rich warm amber tone to the wood.
It s called the minwax 63010444 and it has the tag of fast drying with it.
Additionally water based polyurethane is not as thick as oil based polyurethane so you may need to apply up to four or more coats.
Surface wood finishes these types dry on the surface of the wood.
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.
Surface finishes are known for making the wood more durable but they also don t look as natural.
For example wooden tabletops would benefit from a gloss finish top coat as this will improve the appearance and enhance the natural color.
The next one from our list is a 32 fluid oz polyurethane finish from minwax.
On the other hand it dries quickly and doesn t have such a strong odor.
First thing first the minwax 63010444 is a wood only finish.
The best kind of finish will differ based on the type of wood that you are covering with polyurethane.
For everyday furniture that receives a lot of use surface finishes are the way to go because they are more protected.
The finish can raise the grain of the wood and is susceptible to watermarks.
Oak stair treads usually sport a bullnose or rounded edge along their length.
You can choose whichever look you prefer for your project.
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.
Crystal clear or amber tone.
Water based polyurethane can be more temperamental.
Homeowners and contractors choose oak for stair treads because of oak s strength resilience and durability.
Others remain crystal clear.
Shellac and polyurethane varnish.
Choose a stain that enhances the richly grained lines of oak such as a honey or deep red oak color.
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.
Let s check down the facts and if it s really worth your attention or not.