Is it better to paint or stain a plywood floor?

I saw a plywood floor in a retail space once that the owners had hit with a blow torch. It raised the grain and was really so attractive. And it must have been for heavy traffic.

I have seen several of the DIY shows use plywood as a floor... make sure the seams are flush and even, pull out any staples or nails sticking up and make sure the plywood is firmly "down" Then you can stain, paint and seal any way you like... but check with the manufacturer of the vinyl, or wood/laminate floor you plan to get... to see if a sealed surface under their product will effect the way their product will install or preform... then plan accordingly.

If you are planning to add another layer later, I would think that stain would be the way to go with no sealer. Of course, the problem could be scratches, but I think it would hold up better than unsealed paint.

Just know that in some states, if you plan to sell your home, the buyer may not be able to get financing with just a subfloor. Just be sure you keep to your plan. :)

https://www.zillow.com/advice-thread/Is-flooring-required-for-a-conventional-loan/286610/

I would stain it and then varnish it so it looks good until you can get your flooring. Sand and bleach out any dark blemishes with wood bleach.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vClCx08V7ps

I would use a low nap roller on a long-handle will make quick work of it.

I do like the 50/50 mix as it really shows off the wood grain....

There are tons of other videos on YouTube.

I have seen some beautiful stained plywood floors and I have also seen some incredible stenciled plywood floors. I think the choice is how much labor do you want to put into it and where that room is and the amount of traffic flow..