Water-Based vs Oil-Based Hardwood Floor Finishes
Many homeowners choose to have hardwood floors installed in their homes because they believe they have the most opulent, inviting aesthetic. However, to help preserve their beauty, it's essential to have professionals who perform hardwood floor refinishing services come into your home. Although protecting your floor is the primary objective of polyurethane treatments, not all finishes are equal. This article will take a look at two types of hardwood floor refinishing, water-based and oil-based, and discuss the positives and the negatives associated with them.
1. Look
Water-based finishes are transparent, while oil-based finishes have an amber or yellowish tint. A water-based finish won't give your floors a color boost since it doesn't have its own color. This means that throughout the floor's lifespan, the lovely natural aesthetic of the wood will be visible. Oil-based coatings, in contrast, will darken with time, making the floor appear heavier and darker. Be sure to talk with a local hardwood flooring company to learn more about how the finishes will impact the look of your floors.
2. Drying Times
One of the most notable differences between water-based and oil-based finishes is the drying time. Because water-based finishes have a thinner consistency and dry faster, you can apply several costs in a single day. After the last coat of your hardwood floor refinishing, you can walk on the floor within three to four hours, meaning you won't have to stay out of the room all day.
In contrast, heavier oil-based finishes often require at least 16 hours after each layer for adequate drying and 24 hours to cure after applying the last coat before you may walk on them. That may be a huge hassle for homeowners because the space being worked on won't be used for a few days. Be sure to work with a local hardwood flooring company that offers estimates so you can understand the timeframe of fully refinishing your floors.
3. Thickness/Hardness
Since water-based finishes are thinner, you may need to apply more layers to achieve the necessary degree of protection. This depends on the area being worked on and how frequently it's being walked on. Oil-based polyurethane hardwood floor finishes are 45% to 50% solids, according to the Family Handyman, meaning they offer more protection for rooms that receive a lot of traffic. The extra thickness of these finishes will prevent surface scratching but won't protect against all damage. Work with an experienced hardwood flooring company to ensure the work is completed quickly and efficiently.
The finish you choose will depend on what you're looking for. Each form of hardwood floor refinishing has its pros and cons, so it's vital that you take the time to learn more about the different options available. Contact Jimmy Connor Hardwood Flooring to learn more about the process or to schedule a free estimate.
Share On: