How to Stain a HardWood Floor

If you have a bare wood floor in your home, consider staining it. Stains are applied to the surface of a bare wood floor to alter the coloration of the wood. Colored stains can also be applied to wood floors that have been previously stained to achieve a color-washed effect. Look for water based stain for ease of use and easy clean up. A wood conditioner may also be applied prior to staining to prep the surface of the wood. Conditioners applied to bare wood may help to prevent streaking when applying the stain. It's easy to stain a bare wood floor with just a few simple steps.

Tools and materials:

Rubber Gloves

Synthetic Brush, sponge applicator or cotton lint-free rag

Sponge applicator or paint pad and pole extension for applying clear finish coat

Power sander, fine grit sandpaper

Optional wood conditioner

Tack cloth

Cotton lint-free rags

Water-based stain

Polyurethane sealer in your choice of high gloss or clear

1. Sand the floor surface, using the fine grit sandpaper on the power sander. Move the sander in the direction of the wood grain. Wipe the floor with a tack cloth to remove leftover dust and debris.

2. Apply the wood conditioner with a soft cotton cloth if desired. Allow to dry completely.

3. Put on the rubber gloves. Stir the stain solution thoroughly. Apply the stain to the floor using the brush or sponge applicator. Work in small sections, going with the grain of the wood. Avoid overlapping the brush strokes.

4. Wipe away excess stain immediately with a clean cloth, or after waiting the time recommended by the stain manufacturer. Wipe against the grain of the wood first, then wipe with the grain. Continue applying the stain to the wood, and wiping away the stain, until the entire floor is covered and has a uniform appearance. Allow the stain to dry completely.

5. Sand the floor lightly with the fine-grit sandpaper on the power sander. Wipe away any dust with a clean, cotton cloth. If you would like a deeper color to your floor, apply a second coat of stain following the steps above and allow to dry.

6. Apply one coat of your choice of polyurethane finish to the floor, using a sponge applicator or a paint pad with a pole extension applicator. Allow the polyurethane to dry completely. Sand again if desired, and apply another coat of polyurethane for even more shine and durability. Let dry thoroughly.