[Getting better]

I love the look of Waterlox especially on Cherry treated with Potassium Dichromate. But the fumes….., they are horrible for a few days and still smell pretty strong for a few weeks. And, at least on my stairs, the durability is marginal at best. I applied the Waterlox in my shop and let it cure for a month before installing the steps.
Now I’m forced (after only two years) to refinish the stairs. I won’t apply another coat of Waterlox as the fumes are so bad I’ll have to move out of the house for two weeks (can’t remove the steps). My question: what can I use for a top coat over the Waterlox? Also any application or prep advice will be appreciated

 

[Steve Neul]

Since it a recoat I would first clean the stairs with Krud Kutter Gloss Off to make sure there no foreign substance on them. Then scuff them with 220 grit sandpaper and use a waterborne floor finish. The waterborne finish will have less offgassing than anything else you could use.

 

[Getting better]

Steve,
Thank you. I'm surprised water based finish will adhere to the Waterlox. I’ll start with some test pieces.