- 1). Look at the color of your floor. If the timbers seem to have a yellowish tone, the finish is likely oil. Water-based finishes go on clear, so a clear finish would suggest a water base.
- 2). Purchase a small can of water-based finish and one of oil-based finish.
- 3). Apply a very small amount of each of the finishes to an inconspicuous spot on your wood floor. Allow to dry.
- 4). Compare the dried results. The coating that best matches the original floor finish is likely the finish used.
- 5). Dampen a clean cotton cloth lightly with paint thinner.
- 6). Wipe a small inconspicuous spot on your floor.
- 7). Swiftly sniff the residue on the cloth. If it has a strong odor, the finish is likely oil-based. Water-based finishes often have a much weaker odor than oil-based.
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