Hardwood Floor Applicators

Upon using any type of finishing brush or roller it becomes important to be aware exactly what type of finish is being applied. Following the finish manufacturers specifications will prevent any problems. In actuality some will dissolve applicators.

Applicator Bars (T Bars)

These tools are equipped with long handles with sleeves that slip on and off during storage or cleaning purposes. Sizes can range from twelve to 24 inches with the latter generally used for larger projects such as commercial applications of gymnasiums. These tools have swivel type handles with accessibility for extensions. T Bars are used primarily for water based finishes.

Lambswool Applicators

These tools can be natural or synthetic cloth encased around wooden blocks (shown right) with long handles. Solvent based finishes (oil and other variations) are predominantly used with these tools.

Squeegees

Yes, squeegees can be part of a finishers tool box. They become useful with jobs that may require a large amount of crack, or knot filling compound.

Rollers

Rollers are manufactured with natural or synthetic material in the likes of mohair. Rollers can be used to spread water and solvent based floor finishes.

Brushes

Brushes for hardwood finishing can come in the form of foam, natural, china type bristle and other fabricated products. Once again, for all products mentioned, always consult with the finish manufacturers specifications. What could be an great product could result in expensive fixes.

Notes

If you’re dead set on a particular finish type always do a test run before applying to the floor itself. Exotic hardwoods in particular may be composed of chemical compounds or oils that slow drying time and can even change the color of the

hardwood. Think about it when cutting an unusual hardwood. Does it smell strange or odd? It’s the inherent makeup causing the odor.

Some types of hardwoods may be oily in nature where some finishes work while others do not. Oils may leach creating finish bonding problems. In this case, sealing immediately after final sanding is recommended.

Regarding finish types whether oil or water, desired color changes or ambering will not work well with water based finishes. Using an oil based sealer is often the right choice to get the desired affect, finished with a water based application for quicker drying times and improved durability. Additionally the oil sealer does not restrict the the natural amber color process water based finishes are reported to do over time.