Polyurethane Vs Water Based Floor Finish

Oil vs water based polyurethane.

Polyurethane vs water based floor finish.

Oil based poly can last around 10 years. This was not the case 10 year ago. Oil based can take 3 5 days pending on humidity and you need to wait at least 24 hrs before walking on them. High quality water based polyurethanes is considered by many homeowners flooring professionals to be equally durable.

Though this particular product is available in satin only it gives a beautiful finish that leaves your project the perfection it needs. Woods with a hint of yellow in them already such as pine fir and ash become even yellower with an oil based finish. Water based provides a more transparent finish and isn t expected to change color over time. And this only holds true if it s a high grade water based poly a low grade water poly will be inferior.

Here are our expert. The formulas have really improved. The biggest difference is in appearance. Water based and oil based polyurethane each offer good protection.

In my opinion this is the largest benefit of water based polyurethane. If you want your floor to stay the same color choose water based polyurethane. Wood that is gray white or light looks better with a clear coat i e a water based finish. Like mentioned previously the appearance between water based and oil based polyurethanes is a noticeable one.

Low odor and low vocs. Advantages of water based polyurethane. In general most flooring professionals will tell you that oil based polyurethane is more durable than water borne poly. Very smooth and shiny finish.

Polyurethane is actually the most durable hardwood floor finish. This water based polyurethane finish is made with anti scratch and chemical resistant components which protect the floor from damages that may occur in the future. Easy application and cleanup. Today though water based polyurethane has evolved with better formulations that are equally durable as oil based polyurethane.

On the other end oil based polyurethane will accent your wood with a rich amber tint. Oil based used to be unquestionably more durable.