I have a split level house. The bottom stairs(use to be carpeted) are stained and ready for poly(Minwax). On the top stairs(7 steps) the only thing I have done is saw the overhang off and clean up the staples and nails. What I need to know is how bad is the odor going to be from the poly? How long will I need to leave windows and doors open? The highs temps are going to be only in the low 40's. I need to have all the stairs done with a few weeks. Thanks for the replies inadvance.

i just finished staining (bona natural) my floors this weekend and the temps were in the 30's i had a window and the front door open. with out the heat on i was surprised the temp only dropped to 50 the smell was bearable after a few hours i closed the windows after 5 hours.

Be sure to read the instructions on your can of clear finish. If the temps aren't high enough, it will take much longer to cure, and if too low, may not cure at all.

Thanks for the replies. I put down the first coat of poly a couple days ago. Odor was not as bad as the stain. I plan on putting down the second coat of poly tonight. Going to put down the stain on the top stairs tonight also. I'll open the door and a couple windows. If does not dry by 7AM the kids won't be going to school