Hi guys, I figured I would try to tap this resource before doing further damage to my floor.

This is my first hardwood flooring installation in a 225+/- sf bedroom and after the installation, sanding, sealer and first coat of poly everything looked pretty good. I've since laid coats two and three down and I can't seem to get rid of these damn air bubbles. Love the finish and grain "pop" but the floor is a little too rough for my liking due to the air bubbles.

I'm using Varanthane's oil-based (gloss) poly with the recommended lambs wool applicator. This last coat (#3) I was especially careful to not play with the finish too much, but still I have bubbles. So I'm left with thinking that my technique is just bad. Now I've been pouring the poly in a paint tray, dipping the applicator in the poly and spreading it on the floor. This might not be the best method but I think I've made it worse because I usually (kind of subconsciously) push down on the applicator in the paint tray to squeeze out the excess. I have a feeling by doing so I basically infuse the applicator with air. I'm going to sand coat #3 like hell and give it one more shot. Should I chuck the paint tray and dump the poly on the floor and move it around with the applicator? Should I give rolling a shot? I guess I'm just looking for a crash course in technique because with the next coat being coat #4 I feel like I've only got one shot left. Thanks guys - Jim

Jim,

It may be the finish you are using or your style or the applicator. One thing, always stir the finish, never shake. After pouring into your tray, allow finish to sit for about 10 minutes to release any bubbles. Gently dip the applicator into the finish and apply. You need to learn to "feather out" with your applicator so as not to leave puddles, drips or bubbles. You know, your floor isn't very large. Did you conider using a large quality natural bristle brush? You may get a better finish job.

I sanded a small section of the closet and applied with a brush made for such finishes. Still got small bubbles so i'm pretty convinced its the finish I'm using. Will there be compatability issues if I ditch the Varathane and go with another brand?

No, there shouldn't be. It is an oil-based polyurethane, yes? If so, I found Minwax Fast Dry Poly for floors to be a good consumer product. I would let the Varathane dry very well first however, to avoid any compatability issues.

Are you seeing bubbles or fish eyes? Just to be sure.

I'm pretty sure its bubbles, although to be honest if I was looking at fish eyes I wouldn't know it. The stuff I'm getting is small and you can't see it unless the light is directly on it but you can sure feel it. In a lot of areas I have lines of consecutive bubbles (kind of like how poison ivy looks on your arm or something), which almost leads me to think its an applicator thing too. Honestly the stuff does remind me of dust, but if there is one thing I think I can do right with regard to finishing its dusting and keeping a clean room, but who knows. So at last count we have a poly issue and applicator issue hmmmm, I'm starting to think we may have an operator issue instead

The brush in the closet looked great while it was drying but since its dried its rough, reminds me of raised grain.

I have a couple of pictures of the issues so I'll try to figure out how to get them on the site. Thanks again guys. Jim