Water based floor policy: Apply to stain as well?

Why ask us? Clarify with your building mgmt and/or board. One would assume, though, that water-based only means just that: water-based ONLY. ie: NO OIL.

Most buildings in manhattan do not let you use oil based. Too many complaints about the smell. Water based poly has come a long way I wouldn't hesitate to use it

Primer05 you are always helpful with your replies. Thank you for all your help on so many posts.

A water based finish over an oil base stain creates a crackle effect. The oil essentially does not "dry". Over it's life it will continuously release oil and gases. This will crackle the water finish or make it peel off. You can paint over oil but it has to be heavily primed, sanded, primed. Repeat.

We had this problem in our condo, some idiot painted the doors with water over oil. The paint peeled off. It was easier just to replace the doors with all new doors.

You people are so lucky I check in here once in a while . . .

Thanks!

I have read somewhere saying that water-based stain is very difficult to apply evenly - Is this true? If yes, I am planning to use water-based sealer + finish and skip the stain.

Mynycse,

I do not know where you have heard this. Every floor on my website has been stained and water based poly has been used. I have never had a problem with that, except the pre-finished ones obviously.

www.primerenovationsnyc.com

I think you need to call a professional on this. Stain is difficult to apply evenly, especially over the length and width of a large area. It is a serious problem to try to remove blotchy, uneven stain. I've done small areas, but a floor is a LOT. And I'm an ardent DIYer.

Just call Primer, he seems reasonable.