coverage rates for
Stains / sealers / finishes

When finishing hardwood floors, although important, dry times should not be relied on too heavily. Dry times on stains, sealers, and finishes refer to how a product behaves in perfect conditions. How many job sites have PERFECT conditions? (Spoiler alert — not many!) Use manufacturer-recommended dry times as a general guideline.

Temperature and humidity are the influential factors in dry times. Excesses in either can greatly hinder or halt drying and curing of the products. The NWFA recommends that the jobsite should be in normal living conditions (60-80 degrees Fahrenheit and 30-50% relative humidity) for as long as possible before working on a jobsite–whether installing or sanding and finishing a floor. This ensures that the floors are acclimated, minimizing expansion and contraction.

When applying products, consult the manufacturer-recommended application method, coverage rate, and dry time. These are all important factors in making sure the product behaves as it should. Stick with what the manufacturer says about coverage rates and application methods. Dry times are only a guess, as each jobsite will behave differently. After the recommended dry time, inspect the floor. If it feels dry, then you’re probably good to go ahead with the next step. If the floor still feels tacky, give it more time!

*This information comes from the technical data sheet provided by the manufacturer. Actual performance will differ from job to job.