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When it comes to the best polyurethane for stair treads, there is no one best option. The best option for you depends on your needs and preferences. However, we can guide you through the process of making an informed decision about which product would be best for your needs.
For any homeowner who has recently remodeled their house with new flooring, one of the best investments you can make is to invest in polyurethane for your stair treads.
This will provide you with a slip-resistant surface that will keep your family safe and protect the rest of your hardwood or linoleum flooring from wear and tear.
We have found the 8 best polyurethane for stair treads:
What Is Polyurethane?
Polyurethane is a synthetic resin that is best known for its durability and resistance to wear and tear.
It can be used on a variety of surfaces, including concrete, wood, metal, and plastic.
Types Of Polyurethane
There are two main types of polyurethane:
1. Oil-Based Polyurethane
This type of polyurethane is best known for its durability and resistance to wear and tear.
It is also resistant to water and other liquids, making it ideal for outdoor applications or areas that may be exposed to moisture.
Oil-based polyurethane comes in various forms, including spray foams, sealants, coatings, adhesives, and elastomers.
Polyurethane is usually used on concrete, wood, metal, or plastic surfaces.
2. Water-Based Polyurethane
This type is best used for projects that require a high level of flexibility and elasticity.
It can be used in outdoor applications, as it is resistant to UV radiation and moisture.
It comes in a variety of forms, including sealants, coatings, adhesives, and elastomers.
You can use it on metal or plastic surfaces.
Tip: When choosing a polyurethane product, it is essential to consider the two main types of polyurethane and what your project requires.
Factors To Consider When Buying Polyurethane for Stair Treads
When choosing a polyurethane product, you need to consider the following factors:
1. The Type of Surface You Will Be Applying It To
Not all polyurethanes are created equal. You need to choose a product compatible with the surface you will be applying it.
For example, if you are applying it to concrete, you will need oil-based polyurethane. If you apply it to wood, you will need water-based polyurethane.
2. The Environment the Surface Will Be Exposed To
You also need to consider the environment the surface will be exposed to.
For example, if the surface will be exposed to moisture or UV radiation, you will need a polyurethane that is resistant to those elements.
3. Flexibility and Elasticity
Not all projects require the same level of flexibility and elasticity. You need to choose a product that meets your specific project requirements.
For example, if you are applying it to concrete, you will need an elastic polyurethane. If you are applying it to wood, you will need a flexible polyurethane.
4. Durability
Not all projects require the same level of durability.
For example, if you are applying it to concrete, you will need durable polyurethane. If you are applying it to wood, you will need a less durable polyurethane.
5. The Desired Finish
Not all polyurethanes have the same finish.
You may want to go with Matte, Semi-Gloss, or Gloss finish.
6. The Cost
Not all polyurethanes are created equal in terms of price. You will need to find a product that best fits your budget.
7. Drying Time
Not all polyurethanes dry at the same rate. You will need to find a product that best fits your project requirements.
8. Quality
The quality of the polyurethane is also important. You will want to find a product that is made with high-quality ingredients to avoid any problems down the road.
Related Post: Top 7 Best Water-Based Polyurethane for Floors
Top 8 Best Polyurethanes for Stair Treads
Now that you know what to consider when choosing a polyurethane, we are going to share with you the eight best polyurethanes for stair treads right now!
Each product is ranked according to its durability, flexibility/elasticity, finish, and drying time.
1. Bona Traffic HD Commercial Semi-Gloss
- Durable
- Flexible/Elastic
- Dries Quickly
- Very low odor
- Very low VOCs
- Scratch resistance
- Environmental friendly
Product Description
The Bona Traffic HD Commercial Semi-Gloss is a great option for commercial applications.
It is durable, flexible/elastic and dries quickly.
It also has a very low odor and VOCs.
This product is scratch resistant and environmental friendly.
1 package comes with a complete hardener.
Pros
- Durable
- Flexible/Elastic
- Dries Quickly
- Very low odor
- Very low VOCs
- Scratch resistance
- Environmental friendly
Cons
- May need more than one coat
2. 1 gal Rust-Oleum Brands 230231 Clear Varathane, Diamond Water-Based Interior Floor Polyurethane, Satin
- Durable
- Flexible/Elastic
- Non-yellowing
- Scratch resistance
Product Description
The Rust-Oleum Brands 230231 Clear Varathane is a great option for flooring.
It is durable, flexible/elastic, and non-yellowing.
This product is also scratch resistant.
One gallon comes with a quart of clear topcoat.
Pros
- Durable
- Flexible/Elastic
- Non-yellowing
- Scratch resistance
Cons
- Not for exterior use
- Must be stirred often
3.Minwax Water Based, Oil-Modified Polyurethane Protective Wood Finish, Clear Gloss, Quart
- Durable
- Flexible/Elastic
- Non-yellowing
- Scratch resistance
- Less odor
- Dries quickly
Product Description
The Minwax 630150444 Minwax Water Based Oil-Modified Polyurethane is a great option for wood projects.
It is durable, flexible/elastic, and non-yellowing.
This product is also scratch resistant.
One quart comes with a clear satin finish and it dries quickly.
Pros
- Durable
- Flexible/Elastic
- Non-yellowing
- Scratch resistance
- Less odor
- Dries quickly
Cons
- Only comes in quart size
- Not for exterior use
4.1 gal Minwax 15555 Clear Polycrylic Water-Based Protective Finish Gloss
- Fast drying
- Easy clean up with warm water
- Non-toxic
- Low odor
- VOC free
- Nonyellowing
Product Description
The Minwax 15555 Clear Polycrylic Water-Based Protective Finish Gloss is a great option for interior projects.
It dries quickly, is easy to clean up with warm water, and has low odor.
This product is also VOC free and non yellowing.
One gallon comes with a quart of clear gloss topcoat.
Pros
- Fast drying
- Easy clean up with warm water
- Non-toxic
- Low odor
- VOC free
- Nonyellowing
Cons
- It may not be durable enough for exterior use
- Not as scratch resistant as other products on the market
5. Water-Base Wipe-On Polyurethane 16fl oz
- Durable
- Fast drying
- Flexible/Elastic
- Non-toxic
- Low odor
- VOC free
Product Description
The Water-Base Wipe-On Polyurethane 16fl oz-Eco-Friendly, Low Odor is a great option for interior projects.
It is durable, fast drying, flexible/elastic, non-toxic, and low odor.
This product is also VOC free.
One pint comes with a quart of clear gloss topcoat.
Pros
- Durable
- Fast drying
- Flexible/Elastic
- Non-toxic
- Low odor
- VOC free
Cons
- Limited color selection
6.Duraseal Polyurethane clear Oil-Based Wood Floor Durable Protective Finish Satin For Wood Floors (QT) GLOSS
- Easy application
- Comes in diverse sheens
- Dries quickly
- Durable
- Flexible/Elastic
- Non-yellowing
- Scratch resistance
Product Description
The Duraseal Polyurethane clear Oil-Based Wood Floor Durable Protective Finish Satin For Wood Floors is a great option for wood floors.
It is durable, flexible/elastic, non-yellowing, and scratch resistant.
This product comes in diverse sheens and dries quickly.
One quart comes with a gloss finish.
Pros
- Easy application
- Comes in diverse sheens
- Dries quickly
- Durable
- Flexible/Elastic
- Non-yellowing
- Scratch resistance
Cons
- May need more than one coat for best results
7.General Finishes Pro Image Water-Based Flooring Topcoat, 1 Gallon, Satin
- Semi gloss finish
- Fast drying
- Easy application
- Easy water clean up
- Low odor
- VOC compliant
Product Description
The General Finishes Pro Image Water-Based Flooring Topcoat is a great option for flooring.
It is durable, flexible/elastic, and non-yellowing.
This product comes in a semi gloss finish and dries quickly.
One gallon comes with a quart of clear topcoat.
Pros
- Semi gloss finish
- Fast drying
- Easy application
- Easy water clean up
- Low odor
- VOC compliant
Cons
- Not as scratch resistant as other products on the market
8.INSL-X CC550109A-01 Cabinet Coat Enamel, Satin Sheen Paint, 1 Gallon, White
- Durable
- Water resistant
- Non-toxic
- Low odor
- VOC compliant
Product Description
The INSL-X CC550109A-01 Cabinet Coat Enamel is a great option for cabinets. It is durable, flexible/elastic, non-toxic, and low odor.
This product comes in a satin sheen and is VOC compliant.
One gallon comes with a quart of clear topcoat.
Pros
- Durable
- Water resistant
- Non-toxic
- Low odor
- VOC compliant
Cons
- Only available in white color selection
Related Post: 10 Best Clear Coats for Painted Wood
Steps for Applying Polyurethane To Stair Treads
Step One: Sanding
Sand your stairs with 120-grit sandpaper until they are smooth.
Step Two: Cleaning
Clean your stairs with a vacuum and tack cloth to remove any dust.
Step Three: Applying Polyurethane
Apply a thin coat of polyurethane to your stairs with a brush, working in the direction of the grain.
Let the polyurethane dry for at least two hours before applying a second coat.
Step Four: Finishing Up
Let the polyurethane dry for at least 24 hours before walking on your stairs.
After the polyurethane has dried, you can apply a non-slip finish to your stairs if desired.
FAQs
What Is the Best Polyurethane for Stair Treads?
The best polyurethane for stair treads is the Water-Base Wipe-On Polyurethane 16fl oz-Eco-Friendly, Low Odor.
This product is durable, fast drying, flexible/elastic, non-toxic, and low odor.
It is also VOC free.
One pint comes with a quart of clear gloss topcoat.
What Is the Most Durable Polyurethane for Stair Treads?
The most durable polyurethane for stair treads is the Duraseal Polyurethane clear Oil-Based Wood Floor Durable Protective Finish Satin For Wood Floors (QT) GLOSS.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Using Polyurethane on Stair Treads?
Pros:
- Polyurethane is durable and will protect your stairs from wear and tear.
- It is also flexible and elastic, so it will not crack or chip easily.
- Polyurethane is also non-toxic and low odor.
Cons:
- Polyurethane can be difficult to apply and may require more than one coat for best results.
- It is also not as scratch resistant as other products on the market.
Is There a Non-Slip Finish That Can Be Applied Over the Polyurethane on Stair Treads?
Yes, a non-slip finish can be applied over the polyurethane on stair treads.
The best product to use is the Water-Base Wipe-On Polyurethane 16fl oz-Eco-Friendly, Low Odor.
This product is durable, fast drying, flexible/elastic, non-toxic, and low odor.
It is also VOC free.
One pint comes with a quart of clear gloss topcoat.
How Many Coats of Polyurethane Should I Apply?
You will typically need two or three coats of polyurethane to achieve the desired results.
Make sure each coat is completely dry before applying the next one.
What Is the Best Way to Apply Polyurethane?
The best way to apply polyurethane will vary depending on the product you are using.
Some products can be applied with a brush, roller, or sprayer. Others may need to be applied with a cloth.
Make sure to read the product instructions carefully before starting.
Can I Use a Polyurethane Over Paint?
Yes, you can use a polyurethane over paint as long as the surface is completely dry and free of debris.
Make sure to sand the surface first to create a smooth finish.
Priming may also be necessary in some cases.
How Long Does It Take for The Polyurethane to Dry?
The time it takes for the polyurethane to dry will vary depending on the product you are using and the weather conditions.
Typically, it will take 24-48 hours for the first coat to dry completely.
Conclusion
When choosing the best polyurethane for stair treads, ensure you keep the key factors in mind.
You can also test out different products until you find the one that best suits your needs.
Be sure to follow the product instructions carefully for the best results.
Happy staining!
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