Wood floors, whether softwood flooring or hardwood, are a beautiful, durable, and practical flooring option. As a professional woodworker, I always admire hardwood floors in modern and Victorian homes alike. The key to maintaining wooden floors in good condition is the finish. While traditional varnishes, gums, and resins were once popular, polyurethane finishes have now taken over due to their superior durability and aesthetic appeal. You can choose from different sheens, such as satin polyurethane or semi-gloss, to suit your preferences.
Oil-based polyurethane used to be the only option available, providing a rich amber hue to the wood. However, water-based polyurethane has become popular in recent years due to its fast drying time, lack of odor, and clear finish. When finishing wood flooring, it is recommended to use an oil-based product for its durability, but water-based polyurethane is also a good choice depending on your needs.
The pros and cons of oil-based polyurethane
Oil-based polyurethane offers durability and beauty, making it a great choice for wooden floors. It is easy to apply and provides a smooth finish. However, the strong odor, longer drying time, and cleanup with harsh chemicals are some downsides of this type of polyurethane.
The pros and cons of water-based polyurethane
Water-based polyurethane has low VOCs and almost no odor, making it a popular choice for those concerned about indoor air quality. It dries clear and dries quickly, but may require multiple coats for adequate protection. Regular touch-ups and refinishing may be needed due to its softer finish compared to oil-based polyurethane.
Which should you choose and why
For a water-clear finish, water-based polyurethane is a good choice, especially for light-colored woods. However, for high-traffic areas like floors, oil-based polyurethane is recommended for its durability. A professional hack is to use a combination of dewaxed shellac sanding sealer and oil-based polyurethane for a strong and long-lasting finish on wooden floors.
