Oil Vs Water Based Floor Finish

The second basic type of hardwood flooring finish is a water based finish.

Oil vs water based floor finish. Following our recent post on maple flooring we had a question from a reader in texas asking us to explain more clearly the difference between water based and oil based polyurethane and to outline the pros and cons of each. We ve given some key points to consider when making your decision oil based poly is simply more durable and lasts about twice as long as water based polyurethane. These water based products are now top of the line catalyzed floor finishes that by far surpass the newly formulated oil based polyurethanes in terms of being eco friendly wear resistant and convenience. Water based vs oil based polyurethane floor finishes welcome back to another round of ask the home flooring pros.

The biggest difference is in appearance. On the other end oil based polyurethane will accent your wood with a rich amber tint. Wood floors refinishing water based vs. Here are our expert.

However lots of high end customers are asking for dark stained hardwood floors with a matte finish. Its strength and durability make it a popular finish for commercial properties but many homeowners like to use. Water based provides a more transparent finish and isn t expected to change color over time. Water based and oil based polyurethane each offer good protection.

More durable than oil based finishes and succeeded. Like mentioned previously the appearance between water based and oil based polyurethanes is a noticeable one. While each type of finish lasts quite a long time many contractors hold the opinion that oil based lasts longer than water based by a few years. Wecannot find matte finish oil base poly only water based and the satin finish oil base has a little to much shine for interior decorators and high end jobs.

The bottom line is both materials have very similar overall durability but based on professional experience water based finishes overall are more durable than oil based. Oil based polyurethane or water borne polyurethane. The amount of coats applied in order to give ultimate protection is on average 2 coats. Oil based polyurethane consists of linseed oil synthetic resins and plasticizers.

Polyurethane is actually the most durable hardwood floor finish. Water based finish appears milky in the can but appears more or less clear when applied to your floor. Which hardwood flooring finish is better and which lasts longer. Price in general depends on the manufacturer but as a rule of thumb water based finish is a bit 10 to 20 cents per sq ft more expensive.

Due to the way most oil based flooring finishes are manufactured they typically have a stronger odor and contain more vocs than water based finish.