We've got 3 rooms of old maple flooring to have refinished. We're diy-er's but want the pros on this project. We would like our maple to be stained but know it doesn't accept stain very well.

We're debating between two recommended and reputable flooring guys and don't know which method is a better bet.

*The first guy says he does it successfully by using a method he learned from a guy who was "a day older than God" so its tried and true but often forgotten. Use a warm damp rag to open grain then a dark linseed oil to alter color. then poly's it and its good to go.

*The second guy says he's seal the bare wood then add stain to the poly to make an even color throughout.

the first guy is substantially more expensive(50% more) but the second method makes us wonder if scratches in the finish will show up be more visible and look strange.

any input or ideas would be appreciated.
thanks

Both techniques have been employed a lot and I've done it both ways. Forget the linseed oil thing though. Any oil-based stain works with the water popping method. It's still hit or miss. Why not hire each guy to do a small test area in your home. Then whoever produces the results you like, hire them.

Sounds like a good canidate for a waterlox sealer/stain combo.

will the tinted poly method still be splotchy or is it the best bet for a genuinely stained looking floor?

gary-the idea of having them each do a spot sounds good but that could really push the limits of our timeline since we couldn't even schedule the job with one of them til we get them to do a trial.

thanks.