- 1). Sand the wood floor, then thoroughly vacuum it. Pay special attention to the edges and the corners where dust tends to accumulate. Use the vacuum extender anywhere else in the room that might have dust, such as the walls and window sills.
- 2). Apply isopropyl alcohol to a folded paper towel. Rub the towel on the floor, using each side for one swipe only so that it picks any remaining dust on the floor instead of pushing it around. Wear your face mask to minimize irritation from the fumes. A dust-free environment is essential before applying polyurethane, or you will have a permanently gritty floor when you are done.
- 3). Keep all windows shut (as well as the door to the room) whenever possible to eliminate the possibility of bringing in new dust. Keep all ceiling fans off until you are entirely finished with the floor.
- 4). Pour polyurethane into a plastic bucket or tub. Dip your paintbrush into the liquid and wipe off the excess on the inner edge of the bucket. Paint the floor with even back-and-forth strokes, as you would a wall. Work in sections to make sure every part of the floor gets a first coat. Allow to dry for 12 hours.
- 5). Once the first coat of polyurethane has soaked into the wood, it will make the grain rise to surface, giving the floor an uneven look. Use an orbit sander and 150 fine-grit sandpaper to lightly sand the entire floor. Sweep up any resulting dust. Apply the second coat the same way you did the first, working in sections to ensure full coverage of the room. Allow the second coat to dry for 12 hours.
- 6). After the second coat has fully dried, lightly sand the entire floor again and sweep up any resulting dust. Add a third coat of polyurethane and allow to dry for 12 hours.
- 7). Once the third coat is dry, use fine steel wool to lightly sand the floor one last time. Sweep up any resulting dust, then apply the fourth and final coat of polyurethane to the floor. Be particularly diligent about painting in sections and make sure that every part of the floor gets a final coat, or you may end up with dull spots or spots that are more susceptible to stains and wear.
- 8). Allow the final coat to dry for at least 12 hours. Wait a minimum of 72 hours before placing furniture or anything hard on the floor.
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