How To Choose the Right Floor Coating Supplies for Unfinished Hardwood Floors

There’s nothing quite like the look of freshly finished hardwood floors — smooth, rich, and glowing with character. But here’s the thing: getting that picture-perfect finish doesn’t happen by accident. When you’re working with unfinished hardwood, the magic comes in what you do after the planks are laid down.

This is where your floor coating supplies come into play. Stains, sealers, polyurethanes, and topcoats — they’re not just add-ons. They’re the secret sauce that transforms raw wood into a floor that’s not only stunning, but strong enough to handle everything life throws at it.

Whether it’s a busy kitchen with kids and pets, a retail shop with constant foot traffic, or a workspace with rolling equipment and daily cleanings, your floors go through a lot. And without the right coatings? You’re looking at peeling, discoloration, and dull finishes faster than you can say “refinish.”

On the flip side, when you use professional-grade products — and apply them correctly — the difference is night and day. Your finish will be smooth, resilient, moisture-resistant, and tough enough to take on chemicals, spills, scuffs, and whatever else gets tracked in.

The bottom line? Choosing the right floor coating products isn’t just about looks — it’s about longevity. And when you get it right, your hardwood floors won’t just turn heads — they’ll turn back time, staying beautiful for years (and refinishes) to come.

Essential Floor Coatings You Need for a Quality Finish

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1. First Comes the Sealer: Your Floor’s Invisible Armor

Before you break out the stain or get excited about finish options, let’s talk sealer — the unsung hero of a good floor coating system.

A high-quality floor sealer helps prep the wood by sealing the pores and creating a smooth, even surface that absorbs stain more consistently. Think of it as the foundation under your foundation — it helps prevent blotchiness, boosts adhesion, and sets the stage for the rest of the magic.

Bonus? Many modern sealers offer moisture resistance, which is perfect if your project involves ground-level rooms, basements, or anywhere with unpredictable humidity. A good sealer doesn’t just protect your wood — it gives your finish something solid to grip onto.

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2. Then the Stain: Set the Mood, Change the Room

Now comes the fun part — color. The right stain can totally transform the feel of a space, whether you’re going for rich, dark espresso tones in a formal dining room or a light, airy Scandinavian vibe in the living room.

But choosing the right stain isn’t just about looks. Different wood species absorb stain differently, and if you skip a test patch, you might be in for a surprise (and not the good kind). At Olson Floor Supply, we carry a wide range of penetrating stains — including customer favorites from DuraSeal and Absco — that are designed for deep, even coverage and lasting color.

Need help picking a shade? We’ve got samples, expert tips, and more than a few opinions (the helpful kind) to make the decision easier.

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3. Finish Strong with Polyurethane Topcoats

Once your stain is dry and you're loving how it looks, it’s time to lock it in with a topcoat — and this is where polyurethane really shines.

There are two main options:

• Oil-Based PolyurethaneWarm amber tone, incredible durability, longer dry time, and that classic wood floor glow.

• Water-Based PolyurethaneClear finish that won’t yellow over time, faster drying, low odor, and ideal for lighter stains or quick-turnaround projects.

No matter which you choose, a quality topcoat protects your floor from scratches, spills, and everyday wear — especially in homes with pets, kids, or a lot of foot traffic. And if you’re not sure which finish to go with (matte, satin, semi-gloss, high-gloss), we can walk you through the pros and cons of each, depending on your style and maintenance expectations.

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4. Application Tools: Because What You Use Matters

Even the best products won’t perform if you don’t use the right tools — and trust us, we’ve seen it all. That’s why we always recommend:

• Lambswool or microfiber applicators for smooth, streak-free polyurethane application

• Foam pads and staining brushes for even stain distribution, especially in corners and edges

• Rollers and trays for water-based finishes

• Buffing pads and screens if you're working between coats for that ultra-smooth finish

• And don’t forget the basics: gloves, clean rags, drop cloths, and painter’s tape — you’ll thank yourself later

At Olson Floor Supply, we stock all the pro-level tools and supplies you need to get the job done right, whether you’re a seasoned contractor or a weekend warrior tackling your first DIY floor refinish.

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Smart Tips for Choosing the Right Floor Coating

When it comes to floor coatings, one size definitely doesn’t fit all. The formula that works great on concrete won’t do the same for unfinished wood — and tile is a different story altogether. That’s why it’s so important to match your coating to your surface. Whether you're finishing hardwood, sealing concrete, or coating tile, using the right product ensures better adhesion, a smoother finish, and longer-lasting protection.

• Consider the Environment: Where’s the floor going? A cozy living room with light traffic? Or a busy basement that battles moisture year-round? Environmental factors matter more than you think. If you’re working in a high-humidity space or an area that sees a lot of foot traffic — like a retail store or entryway — you’ll want a moisture-resistant or heavy-duty finish that can handle the pressure without flaking out.

• Choose Brands You Can Count On: With so many options out there, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. That’s why we always say: go with brands you can trust. Companies like Absolute Coatings have earned their reputation by delivering top-tier results time and time again. Their line of specialty floor coatings offers everything from rich finishes to ultra-durable, easy-to-apply formulas — all designed to make your floors look better and last longer.

• Maintenance Isn’t Optional — It’s Smart: Even the best floor coating isn’t completely hands-off. A tough finish doesn’t mean no maintenance — it just means the right maintenance. Make sure you (or your client) understand how to care for the surface once the job’s done. Whether it’s regular cleaning, occasional buffing, or knowing what products to avoid, a little upkeep goes a long way in keeping your floors looking flawless for years to come.

Let’s Make It Last

Choosing the right stain, sealer, finish, and tools isn’t just about getting through the job — it’s about loving the result for years to come. At Olson Floor Supply, we’ve been helping flooring pros and homeowners across New York, New Jersey and Connecticut make smart product choices for decades.

So whether you’re restoring a single room or finishing an entire home, stop by our showroom in Jamaica Queens, New York to get expert guidance, premium products, and everything you need for a floor that looks as good as it performs.

Contact Us Today!