Dry, Sand, and Clean First Coat — Step 3: Patience is a Virtue—Let It Dry
Part of project
Apply Finish to Stair Treads · Step 3 of 6
In this video
Allow the first coat of polyurethane to dry for several hours. Drying times vary depending on the type of polyurethane (oil-based typically 4-6 hours, water-based 2-3 hours) and environmental conditions like temperature and humidity. The wood should feel dry to the touch and not sticky. After the first coat dries, the wood grain may have risen, making the surface feel slightly rough. Use a 220-grit sand block or sandpaper to lightly hand-sand the entire surface, following the wood grain. Then, use a tack cloth to thoroughly wipe away all saw dust. The surface should now feel smooth again.
Dry, Sand, and Clean First Coat — Step 3: Patience is a Virtue—Let It Dry
Part of project
Apply Finish to Stair Treads · Step 3 of 6
In this video
Allow the first coat of polyurethane to dry for several hours. Drying times vary depending on the type of polyurethane (oil-based typically 4-6 hours, water-based 2-3 hours) and environmental conditions like temperature and humidity. The wood should feel dry to the touch and not sticky. After the first coat dries, the wood grain may have risen, making the surface feel slightly rough. Use a 220-grit sand block or sandpaper to lightly hand-sand the entire surface, following the wood grain. Then, use a tack cloth to thoroughly wipe away all saw dust. The surface should now feel smooth again.