Oil Based Floor Finish Fumes

Homeowners usually have more of a choice between the two considering the odor with oil based.

Oil based floor finish fumes. If your floor is being finished by a professional and it s possible for you to leave the home it s best to stay away long enough for the finish to cure and the odor to disperse which usually takes about 48 hours. These fumes can cause headaches dizziness and a possible blackout. Oil paint releases fumes called volatile organic compounds or vocs. Environment protection agency or epa oil based paints also can irritate the eyes and skin even causing the skin to crackle.

Water based polyurethane creates a clear finish while oil based polyurethane dries to an amber. A popular oil based polyurethane finish is polyurethane varnish that is more durable and protective because it is more resistant in moisture heat or solvents than other varnishes. Curing times will vary based on the type and quantity of the product as well as the type of floor and air flow. I also understand that opening the doors and letting air flow can help remove the odor faster.

Oil based polyurethane contains chemicals in its composition that will require a well ventilated area when they are applied. The three main differences between oil based water based are the effect on the wood color the drying time odor from voc s. How do i get rid of fumes odors from oil based polyurethane on refinished floors. Green building council reports off gassing of oil based finishes can last for months or even years.

Oil based polyurethane consists of linseed oil synthetic resins and plasticizers. I understand that oil based polyurethane used to refinish hardwood floors has a strong fumes and can stay for days. It 39 s especially unbearable on days when the furnace doesn 39 t run much. Both water and oil based polyurethane protect natural wood floors leaving behind a shiny coating.

I also have been told that moisture is not good for the oil based polyurethane curing process. To minimize the dangers of polyurethane vapors always apply the finishes in a well ventilated space wear a face mask and eye protection and don t smoke. According to the u s. Oil based or solvent based polyurethane.

It can take 3 5 days to apply 2 3 coats let it dry. Its strength and durability make it a popular finish for commercial properties but many homeowners like to use. Some lower voc water based products largely finish off gassing within a few days.