How to Stain a Red Oak Floor

Red oak is often manufactured into flooring and is a great wood for finishing as it easily absorbs stain. Darker stains create a great look as they allow the wood grain of the red oak to really shine through. Applying stain to your red oak floors is a project that requires some time and effort but will reward you with beautiful hardwood floors.

Things You'll Need

• Cloths
• Stain
• Screwdriver
• Polyurethane
• Brush

Instructions

1. Shake the unopened can of stain to mix it. Shake for several minutes to ensure it's completely mixed. Open the can of stain and stir it with a screwdriver.

2. Apply the stain to the red oak floor with a clean, dry cloth. Use the cloth to wipe the stain onto the red oak floor in long, even strokes. Wipe off any excess stain with another clean cloth. Continue this process until the entire floor has been stained.

3. Allow the initial coat of stain to completely dry.

4. Wipe on further coats of stain to create a darker finish on your red oak floor.

5. Apply a thin coat of polyurethane to the red oak floor with a clean brush to protect the floor from moisture.

6. Polish the dry red oak floor with a clean rag to create a shine on your new finish.

Tips & Warnings

• Red oak is a porous wood so gel stains work best

• Work in a well-ventilated area

• Wear hand, eye, mouth and nose protection

References

• Lowe's: Refinishing Hardwood Floors
• thewoodbox.com: Red Oak Tips