Q: I’m moving into an apartment within the next 2 weeks. When I first saw the apartment the first thing I noticed was a very strong odor from the newly stained floors. I don’t know exactly what it was, but my friend said it was definitely from the stain. After 3 weeks the smell is still there.
How do I get rid of this smell, besides just fanning it out the window?
A: Stains and finishes dry when the solvent in them (mineral spirits) evaporate. But they have to go somewhere. If the area has been closed up with no ventilation the gasses will stay in the area, cling to walls, etc. Open some windows. Try to get some cross ventilation happening. Use a box fan in a window if need be. You should be able to get the area cleared out quickly.
I had a customer complain to me once that after 2 weeks he was still getting an odour from the floor finish. I went to investigate. There was an odour but it actually was from the new carpet he had installed on the stairway.
Related Questions
Choosing light or dark stained floorsI wanted really dark floors. Dark walnut. He said I wouldn't like it and didn't want to go that dark. I've always had light, natural floors, and wanted a complete change this time....
Floors stained and finished 18 months ago are now peelingQ: Is there a known issue between M***** stain and water-based Bona Traffic finish? We had our floors stained and finished 18 months ago and it is peeling. We have never used any form of abrasive cleaner, nor was there any type of water incident. A: One of the things…
Still smell an odor 2 weeks after last coatQ: We had our entire home painted and our hardwood floors refinished three weeks ago. My four year old and my 11 month old and I have been out of the house since the project started. I'm wondering if it is safe for my girls and I to go back…
Color match existing floors to new prefinished floorsQ: My home is 11 years old. I have wood floors in the kitchen and hall. I want to use prefinished wood floors in the living room and dining room after removing the carpeting. Can I transition or match the existing floors that are not prefinished to new prefinished floors,…
Breathable mats for hardwood floorsQ: We recently installed Azek boards for our outside porch floor. They told me at Azek that if I want to put an outside mat down where we exit the house, it needs to be a breathable mat and not a rubber mat. Do you have a suggestion for me?…