I'm hand-scraping a century-old hardwood floor that's badly stained but in good overall condition and I'm wondering: is it possible to paint a low-traffic (shoeless) area like a bedroom floor and not seal it?

I'd rather avoid exposure to synthetic sealers like polyurethane, if I can get away with it.

Are there any paints available that are durable enough to last without being sealed?

I'm sure you feel as I do that it's a crime to paint wood,( especially a floor like that). But sounds like it's stained beyond return? Have you had any pro sand & finish guys look at it?

I dont know for sure, But I've heard an epoxy paint might be what your looking for. I sure would exhaust all avenues not to paint though.

I know what you mean! I cringe every time I think about it, but I'm in the process of moving
into this old house and need to save money everywhere I can.

I probably should have left the carpeting down until I had more time/money to tackle this
properly.