How Many Coats of Polyurethane Should Be Put on a New Wood Floor?

Layers of polyurethane will protect your new wood floors.

Benefits of Multiple Coats

The primary purpose of applying polyurethane to new wood floors is to protect them from damage. The more coats you use, the more your floor will withstand scratches and daily wear. In addition to protecting the wood, more coats will make the floor look glossier, which may be a design style you prefer.

Time and Cost Factors

When applying more than one coat of polyurethane to a new wood floor, you will need to allow each coat to dry before adding new layers. Thus, the more coats you apply, the longer your project will take. In addition, you will need to purchase more polyurethane for multiple coats, increasing the expense of your project.

Bottom Line

For flooring, particularly in high traffic areas, you will want to focus on durability over initial convenience. Thus, it is recommended that you apply four coats of polyurethane to a new wood floor to protect it adequately. Though it may take additional time and effort in the beginning, the multiple coats will pay off over time.

References

• Rust-Oleum Resource Center: Finish Wood Floors