Oil based used to be unquestionably more durable.
Polyurethane vs water based floor finish.
Low odor and low vocs.
Here are our expert.
Polyurethane is actually the most durable hardwood floor finish.
The biggest difference is in appearance.
Easy application and cleanup.
This was not the case 10 year ago.
Oil based poly can last around 10 years.
High quality water based polyurethanes is considered by many homeowners flooring professionals to be equally durable.
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.
Very smooth and shiny finish.
On the other end oil based polyurethane will accent your wood with a rich amber tint.
In my opinion this is the largest benefit of water based polyurethane.
Water based polyurethane dries faster.
Water based and oil based polyurethane each offer good protection.
Though this particular product is available in satin only it gives a beautiful finish that leaves your project the perfection it needs.
Water based provides a more transparent finish and isn t expected to change color over time.
Oil based can take 3 5 days pending on humidity and you need to wait at least 24 hrs before walking on them.
Floors in need of a clear finish that dries quickly pros.
And this only holds true if it s a high grade water based poly a low grade water poly will be inferior.
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.
Usually water based jobs can be done in 2 days and you can walk on it that night.
In general most flooring professionals will tell you that oil based polyurethane is more durable than water borne poly.
Woods with a hint of yellow in them already such as pine fir and ash become even yellower with an oil based finish.
Advantages of water based polyurethane.
Oil vs water based polyurethane.