some differences between oil polyurethane and water based polyurethane

APPEARANCE:  Oil based poly has an amber hue, but water based poly is clear.  An oil based polyurethane will continue to amber and darken over time (we’re looking at you, orange floors!), but water based poly will remain clear. The color difference is less noticeable over a stained hardwood floor, but an oil based poly will still amber over time.  

Oil based poly with no stain.

stylist= 25:40 Love and Co., photo= Emily Rose Photography, flooring= The Hardwood Co.

Water based poly with no stain.

designer= Laura Lee Childers, photo= Kristen Mayfield Photography, flooring= The Hardwood Co.

DRYING TIMES:  Oil based poly takes much longer to dry and cure, and only one coat of oil based poly can be applied to a hardwood floor in 24 hours.  Water based poly dries much faster, and two coats can be applied in one day. Water based poly can be walked on with socks in about 4-6 hours after the last coat has been applied, but oil based poly must dry for at least 24 hours before walking on it with socks.

SMELL:  Oil based poly has a very strong smell and emits a strong chemical odor and noxious fumes while drying. We normally advise our clients to be out of the house while oil based poly is being applied and drying.  Water based poly, on the other hand, has almost no smell. Water based polyurethane is safe to apply without a respirator, and will not stink up the house like an oil based poly. It is safe to occupy a house while coatings of water based poly are applied and drying.

Water based poly with no stain.

designer+stylist= 25:40 Love and Co., photo= Emily Rose Photography, flooring= The Hardwood Co.

DURABILITY: The water based finish we use is Bona Traffic HD which is a 2 part system with a hardening agent added. Though no finish will completely prevent scratches and dents, Bona Traffic HD offers a very protective coating for hardwood floors.  

Water based poly.

designer+stylist+photo= 25:40 Love and Co., flooring= The Hardwood Co.

We feel water based poly is the best option but it is completely up to our clients to decide which option is best for them.

Did you know we offer virtual calls to help with your stain choice? If there is one thing we know, it is each home is different and your floors are the star of your show! Book your virtual consultation here. I’m excited to chat stain with you! - Jessica