Polyurethane Application: Enhancing Hardwood Durability

Polyurethane is a popular choice for homeowners because of its protective layer it creates on hardwood floors. The application of polyurethane enhance the durability of the wood floor by resisting scratches and daily wear and tear. It is available in both water-based and oil-based formulas, and it offers a clear, durable finish that can be customized with different sheen levels, like satin.

Alright, let’s talk floors! Specifically, let’s dive into the wonderful world of polyurethane floor coatings. You might be thinking, “Poly-what-now?” Don’t worry, it’s not as scary as it sounds. Think of it as a superhero shield for your precious floors, giving them the durability, aesthetics, and protection they deserve. Polyurethane coatings are like that cool, protective layer that keeps your floors looking fabulous, even when life throws its messiest challenges their way.

So, what exactly is this magical elixir? Well, in simple terms, polyurethane is a type of polymer that forms a tough, protective film when applied to a surface. It’s like giving your floor a stylish, yet incredibly strong, bodyguard against scratches, spills, and everyday wear and tear. But here’s the catch: simply slapping it on isn’t enough. You need to choose the right materials and nail those application techniques if you want a truly professional and long-lasting finish. Think of it like baking a cake – you can’t just throw ingredients together and hope for the best, right?

There are different kinds, each with its own superpowers! We have the classic oil-based polyurethane, the eco-friendly water-based option, and the best-of-both-worlds hybrid variety. We’ll delve into the pros and cons of each.

In this blog post, we’re going to take you on a journey from floor-coating novice to polyurethane pro. We’ll cover everything from preparation (because a good foundation is key!), to the art of application, to troubleshooting those inevitable hiccups, and most importantly, keeping yourself safe throughout the process. Get ready to unleash your inner floor-finishing guru!

Gathering Your Arsenal: Essential Materials and Tools for a Polyurethane Floor Coating Project

Okay, so you’re ready to dive into the world of polyurethane floor coatings? Awesome! But before you do, think of it like gearing up for battle…against dull, lifeless floors! You need the right weapons, and in this case, those weapons are materials and tools. Let’s make sure you’re fully equipped.

Polyurethane Types: Pick Your Poison Wisely

Choosing your polyurethane is like picking your class in a video game – it sets the stage for everything. Here’s the rundown:

• Oil-Based Polyurethane: The OG. Tough as nails, gives a warm, amber glow (think vintage charm), but it’s got some serious VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and takes ages to dry.
• Water-Based Polyurethane: The eco-friendly choice! Low VOCs, dries super-fast, and gives a clear finish (shows off the wood’s natural beauty). But, it’s not quite as durable as its oil-based cousin.
• Hybrid Polyurethane: The best of both worlds? Maybe! Combines the durability of oil-based with the low-VOC goodness of water-based. The catch? Prepare for a slightly bigger dent in your wallet.

Which one should you choose? Consider how much abuse your floor will take, how much you care about those pesky VOCs, and whether you’re a patient person (drying time, you know?).

Floor Finishes: Sheen Levels – Shine Bright Like a… Floor?

The sheen is the floor’s personality!

• Satin: Low-key and chill. Hides imperfections like a pro. Great for high-traffic areas where you don’t want to see every scratch.
• Semi-Gloss: The Goldilocks choice. Good balance of durability and shine. Not too flashy, not too dull.
• Gloss: Look at me! Super durable, but shows every. single. flaw. Prepare to be hyper-aware of dust bunnies.
• Matte: Modern and mysterious. Very low sheen, great at hiding scratches, and gives a contemporary vibe.

Think about the room’s lighting, how much traffic it gets, and the vibe you’re going for. Do you want sleek and modern? Go matte. Want to blind your guests with shine? Go gloss!

Wood Fillers/Putty: The Repair Crew

Got holes, cracks, or imperfections? Wood filler is your hero.

• Solvent-Based: Tough and durable, but can be a pain to clean up.
• Water-Based: Easier to work with and clean, but might not be as strong.
• Epoxy-Based: The heavy-duty stuff. Use for larger repairs.

Apply before sanding, let it dry completely, then sand it smooth. It’s like giving your floor a facelift!

Sandpaper: Smooth Criminal

Sandpaper is essential for prepping your floors.

• Grits:
  • Coarse: Use this only if removing Old floor finishing
  • Medium: Leveling is a must to bring your floor back to normal
  • Fine: For extra smoothing on the surface and creating a perfect floor.
• Technique: Always start with coarser grits and move to finer grits. Sanding with the direction of the wood grain is a must.

Sealer: The Floor’s Best Friend

Sealant’s goal is to improve adhesion, prevent tannin bleed, and to improve color on the wood. Consider oil-based, water-based, and shellac-based for the best results.

• When to use: Recommended for porous woods or when changing stain colors.

Applicators: Tools of the Trade

• Brushes: For edges and corners. Get high-quality brushes designed for polyurethane.
• Rollers: For large, flat surfaces. Use a short-nap roller for a smooth finish.
• Pad Applicators: Easy to use and provide a thin, even coat.

Think about the size of your area and the finish you want. It’s like choosing the right paintbrush for a masterpiece!

Solvents: Cleanup Crew

• Mineral Spirits/Paint Thinner: For cleaning oil-based polyurethane.
• Water: For cleaning water-based polyurethane.

Dispose of used solvents and rags properly to prevent fire hazards. Safety first, friends!

Tack Cloth: Dust Buster

This is your secret weapon against dust. Lightly wipe the surface with a tack cloth before each coat of polyurethane.

Painter’s Tape: The Protector

Shield your baseboards and walls from polyurethane drips. Apply carefully and remove it after applying the final coat.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Safety Dance

• Respirator: Protect your lungs from fumes (especially with oil-based products).
• Gloves: Protect your hands from chemical exposure.
• Safety Glasses: Shield your eyes from splashes.

Rags: Spill Patrol

For wiping up spills and cleaning surfaces. Dispose of oily rags in a sealed metal container to prevent spontaneous combustion.

Floor Sander: Level Up Your Floor

• Drum Sander: For large areas. Requires experience.
• Orbital Sander: Easier to use, less aggressive.
• Edge Sander: For edges and corners.

Overlap each pass by 50% to ensure even sanding.

Sanding Pole/Block: Reach for the Stars (or at Least the Corners)

For hand-sanding edges, corners, and hard-to-reach areas. Use a sanding pole or block to maintain even pressure.

Vacuum Cleaner: Suck It Up!

Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter for optimal dust removal.

Paint Tray: Polyurethane’s Swimming Pool

Use a tray liner for easy cleanup.

Stir Sticks: Mix Master

Mix polyurethane before and during application to prevent settling.

Floor Type Considerations: Know Your Enemy

• Hardwood Flooring: Requires thorough sanding and preparation.
• Parquet Flooring: Pay attention to the direction of the grain when sanding.
• Engineered Wood Flooring: Be careful not to sand through the veneer layer.

Phew! That’s a lot, right? But trust me, having the right materials and tools makes all the difference. Now go forth and conquer those floors!

Preparing for Perfection: Mastering Floor Preparation Techniques

Alright, future floor finishers, before you even think about cracking open that can of polyurethane, let’s talk prep. Think of it like this: you wouldn’t build a house on a shaky foundation, right? Same goes for your floors. A little elbow grease upfront makes all the difference between a floor that wows and one that… well, doesn’t.

Surface Preparation

Get down and dirty! Start by thoroughly vacuuming the floor. I’m talking every nook and cranny, every dust bunny, every stray pet hair. Think of your vacuum as your new best friend. After vacuuming, get yourself a good wood floor cleaner and follow the instructions. Remember, we are going for spotless! Next, for the wood filler, let’s not forget to repair any damages. Fill those holes, cracks, and imperfections with a good quality wood filler. Let it dry completely (patience, young Padawan!), and then sand it smooth. You want everything to be perfectly level.

Sanding

Here comes the fun part—sanding! It’s like giving your floors a spa day… a really intense spa day.

• Removing Old Finishes: Time to bring in the big guns, the floor sander. This baby will help you remove old finishes and any imperfections that have taken up residence on your floors. Think of it as exfoliating your floor – you are removing dead skin cells.
• Achieving a Smooth Surface: Now for the sandpaper tango! Start with a coarser grit to get the bulk of the old finish off, then move to progressively finer grits. I’m talking silky smooth here. Remember the sanding needs to be precise and even.

Dust Removal

Okay, you’ve sanded, you’ve conquered, but hold on—there’s still work to be done. Sanding creates dust and lots of it! Dust is the enemy of a flawless finish, so we are going to evict it immediately.

• Vacuuming: Grab that vacuum again (told you it was your new best friend!) and vacuum everything. Walls, corners, the dog…okay, maybe not the dog.
• Tack Cloth: For the final touch, wipe the floor with a tack cloth. This magical cloth picks up any lingering dust particles that the vacuum missed. Dust be gone! You will need a new cloth for each coat.

Sealing (Optional)

Now, for the optional but highly recommended step: sealing.

• Applying Sealer: Apply a thin, even coat of sealer. This helps improve adhesion, prevents tannin bleed (especially on certain wood types), and can even enhance the color of your wood. It’s like primer for your floors.
• Drying Time: Let the sealer dry completely before even thinking about applying polyurethane. Again, patience is paramount.

With this kind of preparation, your floors will look like they are worth millions

The Art of Application: Turning Your Floor into a Masterpiece

Alright, you’ve prepped your floor like a seasoned chef prepping their mise en place – everything is clean, smooth, and ready to go. Now comes the fun part: slapping on that polyurethane and watching your floor transform. But hold your horses, partner! This ain’t just about slopping it on; it’s an art. We’re aiming for a finish so smooth, it’ll make a baby’s bottom jealous.

Application Techniques: Getting Your Groove On

• Pouring Polyurethane: Think of your paint tray as a tiny swimming pool for polyurethane. Don’t drown it, just give it enough to keep your applicator happy. Pour a small amount to start – you can always add more, but you can’t un-pour!

• Applying Evenly: This is where the magic happens. Imagine you’re ice skating on your floor, gliding gracefully with the grain of the wood. Apply the polyurethane in thin, even coats, like spreading butter on toast (yum, toast!). Going with the grain ensures the smoothest finish – you don’t want to go against the flow, trust me.

• Overlapping Strokes: Picture a graceful dance of the applicator! Overlap each stroke slightly, creating a seamless bond, like puzzle pieces fitting perfectly. This overlap prevents streaks, those pesky lines that scream “amateur hour.”

Avoiding Common Mistakes: Steering Clear of Disaster

• Applying Too Thickly: This is a big no-no. Too much polyurethane is like wearing too much cologne – overwhelming and unpleasant. Thick coats lead to bubbles, wrinkles, and a drying time that feels like an eternity. Keep it thin, my friend, thin!

• Skipping Sanding Between Coats: Imagine building a layer cake but skipping the frosting in between. Sanding between coats is like that frosting – it provides a rough surface for the next layer to grip onto. Plus, it knocks down any imperfections, leaving you with a glass-like finish. Don’t skip the sanding, or you’ll regret it!

• Contamination: Dust and debris are the enemies of a flawless finish. Before each coat, channel your inner neat freak and thoroughly clean the floor. Use a tack cloth to pick up any remaining particles. A clean surface is a happy surface, and a happy surface makes for a beautiful floor.

Ventilation: Keeping it Breezy (and Safe!)

• Importance of Airflow: Polyurethane fumes aren’t exactly the scent of roses. Good ventilation keeps those fumes at bay, making the job safer and more pleasant. Open windows and doors, let the fresh air in – it’s like giving your floor a spa day.

• Reducing Fume Exposure: Your lungs will thank you for this one. Wear a respirator to protect yourself from those fumes, especially if you’re using oil-based polyurethane. It’s like a superhero mask for your respiratory system! Safety first, folks!

Patience is Key: Understanding Drying and Curing Times – Let’s Not Rush This Masterpiece!

Alright, you’ve meticulously prepped your floor, chosen the perfect polyurethane, and applied it like a seasoned pro. You’re probably itching to admire your handiwork and get back to normal life. But hold your horses (or should we say, hold your socks)! This is where patience becomes your best friend. Rushing the drying and curing process is like pulling a half-baked cake out of the oven – it just won’t be its best self.

Drying Time: The Initial Countdown

Think of “drying” as the surface-level hardening. We are talking initial drying here, the time it takes for the coating to become touch-dry. The general rule of thumb is to wait at least 24 hours before even thinking about tiptoeing on your newly coated floor in socks. Why socks? Because shoes, even slippers, can leave marks or scuffs on a still-sensitive surface.

And speaking of coats, remember that waiting period between coats? Each layer needs to dry completely before you even think about sanding and slapping on another one. Rushing it will result in a gummy mess, and nobody wants that. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions religiously, as drying times can vary depending on the type of polyurethane and environmental conditions.

Curing Time: The Grand Finale

Now, “curing” is a whole different ballgame. This is when the polyurethane hardens completely throughout, reaching its maximum durability and resistance. Full cure can take anywhere from 7 to 10 days. Yes, I know, it feels like forever. But trust me, it’s worth the wait.

During this vulnerable period, treat your floor like it’s made of spun gold. Avoid heavy traffic, keep those pets away (easier said than done, I know!), and definitely mop up any spills immediately. Avoiding damage during the curing process ensures your floor will look fantastic and withstand the test of time. It is better to err on the side of caution. Think of this period as your floors well deserved Spa Day, with a full body hardening treatment, no touching.

So, resist the urge to throw that housewarming party just yet. Put your feet up, relax, and let your polyurethane do its thing. A little patience now will reward you with a beautiful, durable floor that you can enjoy for years to come. Plus, the anticipation will make that first barefoot walk across your perfectly cured floor even more satisfying!

Maintaining the Shine: Recoating and Refreshing Your Polyurethane Floors

Alright, you’ve gone through all the effort of sanding, staining (maybe), and applying those glorious coats of polyurethane. Now, how do you keep your floors looking like a million bucks without having to redo the whole thing every year? That’s where maintaining and recoating come into play, and trust me, it’s way easier than starting from scratch!

Recoating: Giving Your Floors a Second Life

Think of recoating as a spa day for your floors. It’s a chance to buff away the minor scratches, scuffs, and that general “lived-in” look that develops over time.

• When to Recoat:
  So, how do you know when it’s time? Here’s the deal: keep an eye out for dullness in high-traffic areas, those pesky scratches that just won’t go away with a regular cleaning, or a general loss of that “oomph” your floors once had. Don’t wait until the polyurethane is completely worn through to the bare wood—that’s when you’re back to square one with sanding and all that jazz!

• Benefits of Recoating:
  Why bother? Simple. Recoating extends the lifespan of your floors, keeps them looking sharp, and avoids the hassle (and expense!) of a full-blown refinishing project. It’s like giving your floors a shield against the daily grind.

Screening/Buffing: The Secret Weapon for Adhesion

Now, here’s the magic step that separates a good recoat from a fantastic recoat: screening or buffing. This isn’t just a quick once-over; it’s a crucial step for ensuring the new coat of polyurethane sticks properly.

• Purpose:
  Imagine trying to paint a super-slick surface. The paint just slides right off, right? Screening/buffing is like lightly sanding that surface to give the new polyurethane something to grab onto. It creates microscopic scratches that allow the new finish to bond securely.

• Technique:
  Grab a floor buffer (you can rent these at most hardware stores) and a fine-grit screen (think super-fine sandpaper). Gently go over the entire floor, overlapping each pass slightly. The goal isn’t to remove the existing finish, but just to roughen it up a bit. Be gentle – you’re not trying to sand down to the bare wood! You’re only trying to lightly roughen the surface.

• Ensuring Adhesion:
  Skipping this step is like building a house on a shaky foundation. The new coat of polyurethane might look good at first, but it’s more likely to chip, peel, or wear unevenly down the road. Screening/buffing is your insurance policy for a long-lasting, beautiful finish.

Troubleshooting Guide: Taming Those Pesky Polyurethane Problems!

Alright, you’ve put in the elbow grease, prepped the floor, and meticulously applied that polyurethane coating. But what if things don’t go exactly as planned? Don’t panic! Every DIYer hits a snag or two. This section is your cheat sheet to tackling the most common polyurethane pitfalls, so you can achieve that showroom-worthy finish you’ve been dreaming of.

Bubbles: The Enemy of a Smooth Finish

Ah, bubbles! Those tiny, annoying imperfections that can ruin a perfectly good coat of polyurethane. What causes them? Usually, it’s one of these culprits:

• Applying the polyurethane too thickly: Think of it like spreading butter on toast – too much, and it just globs up.
• Shaking the can like you’re mixing a cocktail: All that agitation creates air pockets that end up as bubbles.
• Using a dirty applicator: Lingering particles can introduce air into the finish.

The Fix:

• Apply multiple thin coats instead of one thick one. Patience is a virtue, my friend!
• Gently stir the polyurethane – no need to channel your inner bartender.
• Invest in a clean, high-quality applicator. It’s worth it for a flawless finish.
• Back Brushing: Lightly brush back over the wet polyurethane after applying it to release any trapped air bubbles. This technique can be a lifesaver!

Streaks: The Tell-Tale Sign of Uneven Application

Streaks can be a real eyesore, leaving your floor looking less than professional. Here’s what might be causing them:

• Uneven application: Missing spots or applying too much in certain areas.
• Using a low-quality applicator: Cheap brushes or rollers can leave unsightly marks.
• Applying polyurethane against the grain: Always follow the natural direction of the wood.

The Fix:

• Focus on applying the polyurethane evenly across the entire surface. Overlap each stroke slightly for consistent coverage.
• Ditch that dollar-store brush and invest in a good-quality applicator. Look for brushes designed specifically for polyurethane.
• Always apply the polyurethane in the direction of the wood grain. It makes a world of difference!

Lap Marks: The Ghostly Lines of Drying Polyurethane

Lap marks are those overlapping lines that appear when the polyurethane dries unevenly. Here’s how they happen:

• Allowing the polyurethane to dry before overlapping strokes: If the edge of your previous stroke dries before you apply the next one, you’ll get a lap mark.

The Fix:

• Overlap strokes while the polyurethane is still wet. This is crucial!
• Use feathering techniques to blend the finish seamlessly. Feathering involves lightly brushing over the edge of the wet polyurethane to blend it with the already-dried area.

Uneven Sheen: The Patchy, Inconsistent Finish

An uneven sheen can leave your floor looking dull and unprofessional. Here’s what might be to blame:

• Inconsistent application: Applying different amounts of polyurethane in different areas.
• Variations in drying conditions: Temperature and humidity can affect the sheen.
• Contamination: Dust, dirt, or other particles can interfere with the finish.

The Fix:

• Apply polyurethane evenly across the entire surface.
• Maintain consistent drying conditions: Keep the temperature and humidity as stable as possible.
• Ensure the surface is clean before applying polyurethane. Vacuum thoroughly and use a tack cloth to remove any lingering dust.

Peeling: The Ultimate Polyurethane Nightmare

Peeling is a sign of serious adhesion issues, and it can be a real pain to fix. Here’s what causes it:

• Inadequate surface preparation: If the floor isn’t properly sanded and cleaned, the polyurethane won’t adhere properly.
• Applying polyurethane over a contaminated surface: Dirt, grease, or other contaminants can prevent the polyurethane from bonding to the floor.
• Using incompatible products: Mixing different types of polyurethane or applying polyurethane over an incompatible finish can cause peeling.

The Fix:

• Prepare the surface thoroughly: Sand the floor properly, remove all dust and debris, and clean with a wood floor cleaner.
• Ensure the surface is clean before applying polyurethane.
• Use compatible products: Stick to one brand of polyurethane and make sure it’s compatible with any existing finish on the floor.

Drying Issues: The Lingering Finish

If your polyurethane isn’t drying properly, it can be frustrating and time-consuming. Here’s what might be going on:

• High humidity: Moisture in the air can slow down the drying process.
• Low temperature: Cold temperatures can also inhibit drying.
• Applying polyurethane too thickly: Thick coats take longer to dry.

The Fix:

• Maintain proper ventilation: Open windows and use fans to circulate the air.
• Increase the temperature: If possible, raise the temperature in the room to speed up drying.
• Apply thinner coats: Multiple thin coats will dry faster than one thick coat.

Safety First: A Crash Course in Not Blowing Up (or Otherwise Hurting Yourself) While Polyurethaning

Alright, let’s talk safety! Slapping down a beautiful, durable polyurethane finish on your floors shouldn’t land you in the emergency room (or worse!). Think of this section as your personal “Don’t Do Dumb Stuff” guide. We’re going to break down the essential safety considerations when working with polyurethane because, let’s face it, some of this stuff is a bit spicy. Let’s keep things shiny and safe, yeah?

Playing with Fire (Figuratively, of Course!): Understanding Flammability

• Oil-based polyurethane is like that one friend who always seems to be near a lighter—a bit flammable. The vapors can ignite if they meet a heat source, sparks, or open flames. So, rule number one: No smoking while you’re working. And please, keep it away from that old pilot light in the basement.

• Precautions: Think of your workspace as a “No Fun Zone” for fire. Keep flames, sparks (that includes grinders!), and heat sources far, far away. Store your polyurethane in a cool, well-ventilated area. Treat it like you would gasoline – with respect!

Breathe Easy: The Importance of Ventilation

• Airflow is your friend. Seriously. Not only does it help the polyurethane dry properly, but it also reduces your exposure to those nasty fumes. Imagine being trapped in a small room with a skunk – that’s kind of what it’s like without proper ventilation, except the skunk is invisible and slowly giving you a headache.

• Techniques: Throw those windows wide open! Set up some fans to create a cross breeze. The goal is to get the air moving so you’re not breathing in all those fumes. If you’re working in a basement, a box fan pointed out the door is a great start.

Respirator, Your New Best Friend: Protecting Your Lungs

• Polyurethane fumes aren’t exactly a spa treatment for your lungs. They can cause irritation, headaches, and, in the long run, some more serious health issues. A respirator is like a tiny air purifier for your face, and it’s essential when working with this stuff.

• Selection: You’ll need a respirator with organic vapor cartridges. These cartridges are specifically designed to filter out the fumes from polyurethane. Don’t skimp on this – your health is worth more than a few bucks!

• Proper Use: Read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully! Make sure the respirator fits snugly to your face, creating a good seal. A loose respirator is about as useful as a screen door on a submarine.

Glove Up: Skin Protection is Key

• Polyurethane can irritate your skin, and prolonged exposure can lead to dermatitis (itchy, red, angry skin – not fun). Plus, who wants to walk around smelling like polyurethane for days?

• Selection: Invest in some solvent-resistant gloves. Latex gloves will dissolve faster than cotton candy in a hurricane, so opt for nitrile or neoprene.

• Best Practices: Rock some long sleeves and pants! The less skin exposed, the better. Think of yourself as a polyurethane ninja, fully covered and ready to strike (or, you know, apply a smooth, even coat).

See Clearly: Eye Protection

• Polyurethane + eyeballs = bad news. Splashes happen, and you do not want this stuff in your eyes.

• Selection: Grab some safety glasses or, even better, goggles. Goggles offer a more complete seal around your eyes, providing better protection.

• Ensuring Coverage: Make sure those safety glasses fit properly! They should cover your eyes completely and sit snugly on your face. Think of them as tiny shields protecting your precious peepers.

Trash Talk: Proper Disposal

• Cleaning up after a polyurethane project is more than just rinsing out your brush. You need to dispose of the materials properly to prevent fire hazards and environmental contamination.

• Proper Disposal: Check your local regulations for proper disposal of hazardous materials. In many areas, you can’t just toss used polyurethane and solvents in the trash.

• Oily Rags: This is super important: Store oily rags in a sealed metal container. Oily rags can spontaneously combust (basically, catch fire on their own) due to the heat generated as the oil oxidizes. It’s a real thing, and it can be dangerous. So, seal those rags up tight!

VOCs: The Invisible Nuisance

• VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) are chemicals that evaporate into the air and can cause health problems, like headaches, dizziness, and respiratory irritation. Basically, they’re not your friends.

• Choosing Low-VOC Options: If you’re concerned about VOCs (and you probably should be), consider using low-VOC or water-based polyurethane. These products contain fewer harmful chemicals and are generally safer to work with.

Read the Fine Print: Safety Data Sheets (SDS)

• The SDS is your go-to resource for detailed information about the hazards and safety precautions associated with polyurethane. It’s like a cheat sheet for staying safe.

• Consulting SDS: Before you even open the can of polyurethane, take a look at the SDS. You can usually find it online or ask your supplier for a copy.

• Understanding Hazards: The SDS will outline the specific hazards associated with the product, as well as the recommended safety precautions. It’s worth taking the time to read it and familiarize yourself with the risks.

Follow these safety guidelines, and you’ll be well on your way to a beautiful, durable, and safe polyurethane floor finish!

So, there you have it! Polyurethane isn’t as scary as it sounds, right? With a little patience and these tips, you can totally transform your floors and give them that showroom shine. Now get out there and make those floors sparkle!