The Cape Cod Flooring Contractor Supplies Checklist

Why a Checklist Matters on Cape Cod

Running out of supplies mid-job is expensive anywhere. On Cape Cod, it can mean an hour-round-trip to Falmouth during a tight finish window, or worse, leaving an island job with stain applied and no topcoat available. Experienced contractors supply every project from a consistent checklist, so nothing gets missed in the rush of packing out.

Everything on this list is available at JR Hardwood Supplies, 112 Davis Straits, Falmouth. Call ahead at (508) 524-8957 to confirm stock on large orders.

Finishes

• Bona Traffic HD (Extra Matte, Satin, Semi-Gloss or Gloss): main finish coat. Bona specifies 350 to 400 sq ft per gallon per coat, so calculate per coat and do not spread it thinner.
• Bona Traffic HD hardener: required mixing component. Always bring an extra unit.
• Bona Mega One: backup or alternative for lower-traffic areas.
• Oil-based seal coat: if using a stain under waterborne finish, a seal coat protects the stain from the waterborne's water content on first application.

Stains

• DuraSeal QuickCoat in your selected color(s): roughly 500 sq ft per gallon on the first coat, 800 on an optional second.
• Extra color: bring 10 to 15 percent more than the calculation calls for, especially on island jobs.
• Bona DriFast Stain: oil-modified, fast-recoat, and formulated to go straight under Bona waterborne finishes.

Sanding Supplies

• Drum sander paper in grits: 36 (or 40), 60, 80, 100
• Edger discs matching the same grit progression
• Hand scraper for corners and tight spaces
• Buffer screens (120 or 150 grit) for between finish coats

Applicators and Accessories

• T-bar applicators (18 inch) with replaceable applicator pads
• Extra applicator pads (at least 3 per finish session)
• Lambswool applicator for stain application
• Cotton rags for stain wipe-back (bring more than you think you need)
• Tack cloths: at least one box per job
• Stir sticks
• Nitrile gloves (multiple pairs)
• Knee pads

Prep and Protection

• DuraSeal wood putty matched to your stain color
• Blue masking tape (wide)
• Plastic sheeting to seal off adjacent rooms and HVAC vents
• Shop vacuum with fine-dust filter
• Moisture meter (essential in coastal environments)
• Humidity gauge: know what conditions you are working in
• Dust masks (N95 minimum) and safety glasses

Cape Cod-Specific Additions

A few extras that experienced Cape Cod contractors always carry:

• Extra abrasive supplies: high humidity causes faster pad loading, so bring spares.
• Fan and ventilation equipment: waterborne finishes dry faster with controlled airflow, but avoid direct drafts on wet finish.
• Dehumidifier for very wet days: if summer humidity is above 75 percent, a portable dehumidifier in the work space can meaningfully cut dry times.