Preparation is the most important step to finishing a floor. After
vacuuming the surface with and against the grain, we recommend tacking
it. This can be accomplished by using a mop or lint-free rag or
micro-fiber mop dampened with mineral spirits (paint thinner)1 which
will attract any remaining dust and dirt.
Mineral spirits (paint thinner) is recommended because the Waterlox
Original Tung oil finishes are based in this solvent and are therefore
compatible with it if any residual is left on the surface. Mineral
spirits (paint thinner)1 also evaporates slower than other more intense
solvents such as lacquer thinner.
We do NOT recommend the use of commercially-marketed "tack rags".
Some customers report that these type of marketed "tack rags" leave
a gummy residue on surfaces that is not coatable.
1
Do NOT thin, mix, clean brushes or applicator tools or wipe wood
surfaces with products labeled as: "Low-VOC Mineral Spirits", "Green
Mineral Spirits", "Low-VOC Multi-Purpose Solvents" or "Low-Odor Mineral
Spirits". These types of solvents are not compatible with Waterlox
Original products.
Many of these
solvents/cleaners contain up to 50% water and surfactants and/or they
are blends of VOC-compliant solvents and acetone. Acetone is not a
suitable solvent with our products and any products with water will
raise the grain of bare wood.
Look for product labels that read "100% aliphatic hydrocarbon solvent" or "100% petroleum distillates".