Below are instructions for applying Waterlox products to your wood surface. These instructions are based on the finishing system provided below. To create a new finishing system, click here.
For applying ORIGINAL product(s):
- An 8" to 12" lamb’s wool applicator block and pad (plus one refill pad to complete each coat)
- A natural bristle paint brush for cutting in edges
- A paint roller pan or five-gallon pail (be sure to use a pan or pail that allows your applicator to become immersed in the finish)
For convenience, you can purchase our
Floor Finish Application Kit.
For best results and your own safety, always read and follow all label warnings and instructions carefully.
Test product:
Test, Test, Test. Wood is unpredictable. Always test any new technique, material and product on an inconspicuous area before proceeding.
Application location:
Select a well-lit area to complete your finishing project (preferably with good ventilation) and away from other projects, persons or animals. Do not work in strong, direct sunlight.
Temperature and humidity:
Products, ambient temperature and wood surface should be above 50⁰ F for the entire recommended drying time. It should be dry and warm. Do not work beneath heating or air conditioning vents.
Drying and curing times:
- Allow at least 1 day per coat for proper drying
- Full cure will be 7 days after the final coat (see our Care After Final Coat guide for day by day recommendations)
Ventilation:
- Be sure to ventilate properly and keep all unnecessary persons or animals away during application
- In general, the harmful solvent vapors will be mostly evaporated after the first 2-4 hours after application
- After the solvent has evaporated, the product needs good air flow, specifically oxygen, to dry
hard (see our Ventilation guide for more information)
Raw wood surfaces should be sanded to between 100-150 final grit. Follow proper sanding procedures as Waterlox products will highlight the wood,
including sanding errors. Clean the surface free of debris and wipe down with mineral spirits to pick up any stubborn dust.
Application:
Buff in this coat’s product and let sit for 10-15 minutes. Buff off all of the excess with a clean, lint free cloth or fresh buffing pad. The first coat will use the most product and spread rate may vary slightly.
Dry time:
Allow coat to dry overnight with good ventilation.
Application:
Brush or pad on this coat’s product liberally. Do not over work or over brush the product.
Dry time:
Allow coat to dry for at least 24 hours with good ventilation. Lightly wipe the surface down with mineral spirits to pick up any dust or debris. Allow 5-10 minutes for surface to dry before next coat.
For ORIGINAL or UNIVERSAL TUNG OIL SEALER product(s):
Clean application tools immediately with paint thinner (regular mineral spirits) or turpentine. Properly dispose of rags, applicators and waste. Do not use any type of Green, VOC Compliant, Low Odor or Low VOC marketed spirits or thinner. These may interfere with adhesion.
For ORIGINAL or UNIVERSAL TUNG OIL SEALER product(s):
Keep containers closed when not in use and in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. If stored properly, an unopened can of Waterlox has an almost indefinite shelf life. Cold temperatures will not affect Waterlox, but if it has been chilled or exposed to freezing temperatures, allow it to stand for at least 6 hours in temperatures above 60° F before using. DO NOT artificially heat Waterlox products. Read carefully all cautions on the product label(s).