My floor guys want to sand, seal and put a polyurethane coat on my maple floors. What good questions should I ask them before they start? Are there any particular products that we should avoid? How many coats are needed? Any difference between water based and oil based products?

Thanks in advance.

Waterborne is going to keep that maple nice and white because it's pretty clear when dried, oil modified will have an amber color if you prefer that. Do you know whats on the floor now? Good things to discuss prior are
1. start and completion dates.
2. whats the total job gonna cost.
3. what you expect out of the floor when completed.


On the number of coats its going to vary depending on application method and finish type. ON oil I like 3 straight coats with water (It tends to go on a little thinner) 1 sealer and 3 coats of finish on top of that is normal for a similar build. Have them make a sample of the two types if needed for the best idea. Some contractors are more comfortable and familiar with one type over the other ask him his opinion and you should be able to feel him out. Some like Ford some Chevy you know.

Thanks for the info. Currently the floor has a natural satin covering.

I was told that the sealer dries in about 45 minutes. Does that seem right? What's the usual drying time for the oil and water based finishes?