Question Category: General

Floor Finishes Comparison

Which Floor Finish is best for me?

Asked:

There are several options you have when choosing a flooring finish for your hardwood floor. Each has its various benefits and disadvantages. These include durability, odor, color, recoating, drying time and combustibility.
 
Water-based Urethane
Water based urethane products have a good durability, are clear in color,  are easy to recoat, have a mild odor and dry fast. Water based urethane is suitable in areas in which non-flammable products are required.
 
Oil-modified Urethane
Oil-modified urethane are finishes that strive to bridge the gap between Water based and oil based finishes. They have a good durability, are easy to recoat, they have a moderate odor though less than traditional oil based. Oil-modified urethane takes a slow time to dry but not as long as straight oil based finish. Drawbacks to oil-modified urethane are that it's combustible, they also have an amber color.
 
Swedish Conversion Varnish
Swedish conversion varnish is also known just as conversion varnish. Despite the drawback of a strong odor,  conversion varnish has the advantages of being close to clear, recoatable and fast drying. Swedish Conversion varnish is combustible so do not use in areas that you can not have finishes that are combustible. If you need a product that has excellent durability, consider Swedish conversion varnish.
 
Moisture-cure Urethane
Like conversion varnish, moisture-cure is excellent durability, has a strong  odor, is clear to amber and is recoatable. The product dries in humid areas however it is highly flammable.
 
Seal & Wax or Oil Finish
The final finish option is known by either Seal & wax or oil finish. Its durability is very good, its odor is less strong than other options, it's amber in color, drying times vary and its combustible. It is renewable by the customer but is susceptible to water spotting.

Answered:

Tags: Finishes