Answer
Sep 22, 2019 - 11:52 AM
AFM Safecoat HardSeal is not the best product for flooring because it has very little abrasion resistance. A much better product that also blocks VOC emissions is our AFM Safecoat Polyureseal BP. Bear in mind that if the existing finish is oil based, it will need to be sanded off or sealed with Shellac first (Zinsser Bin clear shellac). That's because our water-based products will not adhere properly to an oil-based finish. Although the shellac has a high VOC content, it will dissipate within several days. They you can apply 3 coats of our AFM Polyureseal BP over the top as it will bond well to the shellac. It's a multi-step process for sure, but short of re-sanding the finish which is a big expensive job, it's the only way we have found that will work well to control the emissions. Let the shellac dry overnight. For the Polyureseal BP, allow 4-6 hours in between coats. It will dry to the touch quickly but move in will be after a few days. The odor from the shellac and poly will be gone in about 3-4 days time. Add some fans, good ventilation and even heat to help accelerate the drying process. Note: high humidity will slow dry times by a factor of 2. On the other hand, if your existing finish is water-based, then you won't need the shellac and can apply the polyurethane directly over the surface. We recommend roughing it up first or de-glossing it before application. Please call 800-405-0222 if you have further questions regarding this process.
