How To Apply Bona Floor Finish? (5 Steps, Pro Sheen!)

I’m a flooring contractor with over 15 years under my belt, and I’ve seen it all when it comes to floor finishes. Today, I’m going to walk you through how to achieve a stunning, professional- grade finish on your hardwood floors using Bona floor finish.

But before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s talk about why maintaining well-finished flooring is so crucial.

It’s not just about aesthetics, believe me.

A proper floor finish does wonders for your home’s overall health and well-being. Think about it: your floors are one of the largest surfaces in your home, constantly exposed to dirt, dust, allergens, and everyday wear and tear. A good finish acts as a protective barrier, preventing these nasties from penetrating the wood.

This reduces allergens floating around, makes cleaning a breeze, and ultimately contributes to a healthier indoor environment for you, your family, and even your furry friends.

Plus, and this is a big one, Bona finishes are known for their low VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds). This means they release fewer harmful chemicals into the air compared to some other finishes on the market. That’s a win-win for your health and the environment! Ready? Let’s jump right into it.

Section 1: Understanding Bona Floor Finish

So, what’s the buzz around Bona?

Well, let me tell you, it’s a name that’s earned its reputation in the flooring industry. Bona has been around for over a century, and they’ve dedicated themselves to creating high-quality, innovative flooring solutions.

They’re known for their commitment to sustainability and their focus on developing products that are safe for both people and the planet.

Think of them as the Volvo of floor finishes: reliable, safe, and built to last.

Now, let’s get down to the different types of Bona floor finishes available. You’ve got your water-based and oil-based options, each with its own unique set of properties.

Water-Based Finishes: These are my go-to for most residential projects. They’re low-odor, dry quickly, and provide excellent durability.

Plus, they tend to maintain the natural color of the wood, which is great if you’re not looking for a dramatic change.

Bona Traffic HD, for example, is a popular water-based option known for its exceptional scratch and wear resistance.

According to independent tests, Bona Traffic HD can withstand up to four times more wear than some conventional polyurethane finishes.

Oil-Based Finishes: These offer a richer, more amber-toned look. They penetrate the wood deeper, providing a more traditional appearance.

However, they tend to have a stronger odor, take longer to dry, and may yellow over time. Bona DriFast Sealer is a popular oil-based option that provides a beautiful, warm tone to the wood.

Choosing the right finish for your specific wood type and flooring conditions is crucial.

For example, if you have a softer wood like pine, you’ll want to opt for a more durable finish like Bona Traffic HD to prevent dents and scratches.

On the other hand, if you have a denser wood like oak, you might be able to get away with a less durable finish.

The technology behind Bona finishes is pretty impressive. They use advanced polymers and crosslinking agents to create a finish that’s both durable and flexible. This means it can withstand everyday wear and tear without cracking or peeling.

They also incorporate UV absorbers to protect the wood from fading and discoloration caused by sunlight.

Section 2: Preparing for the Application

Alright, now that we’ve got a handle on the different types of Bona finishes, let’s talk about getting ready for the application. Trust me, proper preparation is key to achieving that pro sheen finish we’re after.

First, let’s gather our tools and materials. Here’s a checklist of what you’ll need:

• Bona Floor Finish: Choose the right type and sheen for your project.
• Bona Applicator Pad or Roller: These are specifically designed for applying Bona finishes evenly.
• Paint Tray: For holding the finish.
• Edger Brush: For getting into corners and along edges.
• Sandpaper: Various grits (80, 120, 180, 220) for sanding the floor.
• Sanding Pole or Floor Sander: Depending on the size of the area.
• Vacuum Cleaner: With a brush attachment for thorough cleaning.
• Tack Cloth: For removing any remaining dust.
• Painter’s Tape: For protecting baseboards and trim.
• Safety Glasses: To protect your eyes from dust and splashes.
• Gloves: To protect your hands from the finish.
• Respirator: To avoid inhaling fumes, especially with oil-based finishes.

Creating the right environment for application is also essential. You’ll want to ensure the temperature is between 65°F and 75°F (18°C and 24°C) and the humidity is between 40% and 60%.

These conditions allow the finish to dry properly and prevent issues like bubbling or clouding.

Good ventilation is also crucial, especially with oil-based finishes. Open windows and doors, and consider using a fan to circulate the air.

Now, let’s talk about preparing the floor surface. This is where the real magic happens.

Step 1: Cleaning: Start by thoroughly cleaning the floor with a wood floor cleaner. Remove any dirt, dust, grease, or wax. I recommend using Bona Wood Floor Cleaner, as it’s specifically formulated to clean wood floors without leaving behind any residue.

Step 2: Sanding: Sanding is crucial for creating a smooth, even surface that the finish can adhere to properly.

Start with a coarser grit sandpaper (80 or 100) to remove any existing finish or imperfections.

Then, gradually move to finer grits (120, 150, 180) to smooth out the surface.

If you’re using a floor sander, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

Overlap each pass by about 50% to ensure even sanding. Pay close attention to the edges and corners, using an edger sander to reach those areas.

Step 3: Repairing Damages: Now’s the time to repair any damages to the floor, such as dents, scratches, or gouges. Use a wood filler that matches the color of your wood.

Apply the filler according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and allow it to dry completely.

Then, sand the filled areas smooth with fine-grit sandpaper (220).

Step 4: Vacuuming and Tack Cloth: After sanding, thoroughly vacuum the floor to remove all dust and debris. Use a brush attachment to get into the corners and along the edges.

Then, wipe the floor with a tack cloth to remove any remaining dust particles. This will ensure a perfectly clean surface for the finish.

Before you dive into the full application, it’s always a good idea to test the finish on a small, inconspicuous area. This will allow you to see how the finish looks on your wood and ensure that you’re happy with the color and sheen.

Apply a small amount of the finish to the test area, and let it dry completely.

Then, inspect the area for any imperfections or issues. If you’re satisfied with the results, you’re good to go!

Section 3: The Step-by-Step Application Process

Okay, we’ve prepped the floor, gathered our supplies, and tested the finish. Now it’s time for the main event: applying the Bona floor finish!

Remember, patience and attention to detail are key to achieving that pro sheen finish.

Step 1: Ensure Proper Surface Preparation

Let’s recap the surface prep, because it’s that important:

• Cleaning: Vacuum the floor thoroughly. Then, use a damp mop with Bona Wood Floor Cleaner to remove any remaining dirt or grime.
• Sanding: Start with the appropriate grit sandpaper (usually 80-100 for removing old finish, then progressively finer grits up to 180-220). Sand with the grain of the wood.
• Dust Removal: Vacuum again, then use a tack cloth to pick up any lingering dust particles. A clean surface is crucial for proper adhesion.

Step 2: Apply the First Coat

• Mixing: Bona finishes usually don’t require mixing, but always double-check the manufacturer’s instructions. If mixing is necessary, do it gently to avoid creating bubbles.
• Application Tools: I prefer using a Bona applicator pad for water-based finishes. For oil-based, a natural bristle brush can provide a smoother application.
• Application Technique: Pour a small amount of finish onto the floor in a line. Using the applicator pad or brush, spread the finish evenly with the grain of the wood. Work in manageable sections (about 4×4 feet). Maintain a wet edge to prevent lap marks.
• Drying Time: Drying times vary depending on the finish, temperature, and humidity. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific drying times. Generally, water-based finishes dry faster than oil-based.
• Monitoring: While the finish is drying, keep an eye out for any imperfections like bubbles or streaks. If you spot any, address them immediately before the finish fully dries.

Step 3: Sanding Between Coats

• Importance: Sanding between coats is crucial for creating a smooth, even surface and ensuring proper adhesion of subsequent coats. It removes any imperfections and creates a “key” for the next coat to grip onto.
• Sandpaper Grit: Use a fine-grit sandpaper (220-320) for sanding between coats. The goal is not to remove the finish, but to lightly scuff the surface.
• Technique: Sand lightly with the grain of the wood. Use a sanding pole or hand sander for larger areas. Pay attention to edges and corners.
• Cleaning: After sanding, vacuum thoroughly to remove all dust. Then, use a tack cloth to pick up any remaining particles. Again, cleanliness is key!

Step 4: Apply Additional Coats

• Number of Coats: For a pro sheen finish, I recommend applying at least three coats of Bona finish. This provides optimal durability and protection.
• Application Process: Repeat the application process from Step 2 for each additional coat. Remember to sand lightly between coats and remove all dust.
• Water-Based vs. Oil-Based: The application technique is generally the same for both water- based and oil-based finishes. However, water- based finishes tend to dry faster, so you’ll need to work more quickly. Oil-based finishes provide a longer working time, but they require longer drying times.

Step 5: Final Touches and Curing

• Final Inspection: After applying the last coat, carefully inspect the floor for any imperfections. Touch up any areas as needed.
• Curing Time: Curing is the process where the finish hardens and reaches its full durability. Curing times vary depending on the finish, temperature, and humidity. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific curing times.
• Maintaining the Finish: During the curing process, avoid walking on the floor as much as possible. If you must walk on it, wear socks and avoid wearing shoes. Do not place rugs or furniture on the floor until it’s fully cured.
• Post-Application Care: Once the floor is fully cured, you can start using it normally. However, it’s important to care for it properly to maintain its beauty and durability. Use a damp mop with Bona Wood Floor Cleaner to clean the floor regularly. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the finish.

Section 4: Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with the best preparation and technique, sometimes things can go wrong. Here are some common issues you might encounter when applying Bona floor finish, and how to fix them:

• Bubbles: Bubbles can occur if the finish is applied too thick, if the floor is not properly prepared, or if the finish is shaken too vigorously before application. To fix bubbles, try sanding the affected area lightly and applying a thin coat of finish.
• Streaks: Streaks can occur if the finish is not applied evenly, if the applicator pad or brush is dirty, or if the floor is not properly sanded. To fix streaks, try sanding the affected area lightly and applying a fresh coat of finish using a clean applicator pad or brush.
• Uneven Surfaces: Uneven surfaces can occur if the floor is not properly sanded, if the finish is applied too thin, or if the finish is not allowed to dry properly. To fix uneven surfaces, try sanding the affected area and applying additional coats of finish until the surface is smooth and even.
• Clouding/Hazing: This can happen if moisture gets trapped under the finish. Make sure the floor is completely dry before applying the finish, and ensure proper ventilation during the drying process.
• Lap Marks: These occur when the wet edge of the finish dries before you can blend in the next section. Work quickly and maintain a wet edge. If you get lap marks, you may need to sand the area and reapply the finish.

To maintain your floor finish over time and prevent future issues, here are a few tips:

• Use Doormats: Place doormats at all entrances to trap dirt and debris before they can get tracked onto the floor.
• Use Furniture Pads: Place furniture pads under the legs of all furniture to prevent scratches and dents.
• Clean Regularly: Clean the floor regularly with a damp mop and Bona Wood Floor Cleaner.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the finish.
• Re-Coat as Needed: Depending on the amount of traffic, you may need to re-coat the floor every few years to maintain its protection and appearance.

Conclusion

So there you have it: a comprehensive guide to applying Bona floor finish like a pro! I know it seems like a lot, but trust me, the results are worth it.

Remember, a well-finished floor not only enhances the beauty of your space but also contributes to a healthier indoor environment. By using Bona floor finishes, you’re choosing a product that’s both durable and safe for your family and the planet.

And by following the proper application process, you can achieve a stunning, professional-grade finish that you’ll be proud of for years to come.

Don’t be afraid to tackle this project yourself. With a little patience, attention to detail, and the right tools and materials, you can transform your floors and create a space that’s both beautiful and healthy.

Now go out there and make those floors shine! You’ve got this!

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