Hi folks. This is my first post to Knots! Hopefully I’m in the right spot. Here’s my question for discussion. I’m renovating an old house to use as my new shop. Under the layers of carpet, vinyl and oilcloth floor covering I discovered tongue and groove softwood flooring in great shape. Bonus for me! I’m wondering what is the best finish to use on the floor. I’d like to keep the wood exposed but sawdust on a varnished floor is a bit like working on ice. The floor will get regular sweeping, of course, but I’m not likely to ever scrub it or refinish it after the machines are in place. Any tips?
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Replies
Mike, Go ahead and varnish it. Just wear your golf shoes in the shop!
Dick
Talk about a cryptic response!Chris @ http://www.flairwoodwork.spaces.live.com
- Success is not the key to happines. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful. - Albert Schweitzer
In factories, non slip tape or paint is used on floors in the operator zone. A product called SkidTex is added to the paint. Both need to be replaced or renewed from time to time. You can also use some mats. Just be careful which ones you choose. There are some anti-fatigue mats that are slippery as ice with sawdust on top.
Beat it to fit / Paint it to match
I'd just give it one or two at the most coats of an oil/varnish mix (Watco is a commercial brand) just to make it a tad easier to sweep but not make it slick and then just let stuff happen to it. There is no clear finish that's really durable in workshop terms, but so what it it gets a little scarred--its in the workshop.
Exactly what I was thinking Steve. Thanks for the advice folks. I'll post pics when It's all done. There are some early pics here: http://www.morrisonwoodworks.caMIke
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