[riccobo4]

I'm refinishing my wood floors and stair treads and plan to paint the stair risers. They are finished red oak and I believe never refinished since the house was built in the 60's.
I plan to scuff up the clear coat but I would REALLY rather not sand it off entirely unless absolutely necessary

1) What type of primer should I use? Is there a chance this 60's clear topcoat is oil based and therefore require an oil based primer?

2) I have been using Sherwin Williams pro classic trim paint for my moulding and it is very durable so I plan to use it for the risers. Is this a logical choice?

Thanks

 

[mark sr]

I'd use an interior oil base primer after a scuff sand. Your ProClassic can be applied over it once dry.

 

[riccobo4]

I just confirmed with my floor guy that the old coating is shellac and that was very common around that time.
Does that change your recommendation?

 

[mark sr]

No, I'd still scuff sand, oil prime and apply 2 coats of ProClassic.