Oil Based Vs Water Based Polyurethane For Hardwood Floors

As you can see from this picture the difference is pretty dramatic.

Oil based vs water based polyurethane for hardwood floors. Water based polyurethane dries clear and remains clear. The odor and possible health effects of using a high voc product should always be considered but especially if you re refinishing hardwood floors in the winter when you can t air the house out well. It s due to the chemical makeup. Water based polyurethane has both a duller color and a duller finish.

The biggest difference is in appearance. As it ages the amber hue deepens. Oil based poly is simply more durable and lasts about twice as long as water based polyurethane. These solids are what make up the poly s protective finish.

An oil based polyurethane will continue to amber and darken over time while water based poly will remain clear for the lifetime of the hardwood floor. Oil based polyurethane water based and oil based polyurethane each offer good protection. When cost and coats are calculated this works out to about 35 to 50 cents per square foot for oil based poly and 80 cents to 1 35 per square foot for water based polyurethane. Water based polyurethane cost is two to three times higher than oil based products.

Oil based poly s have 45 to 50 of solids while water based polys only contain 30 to 35 of solids. Oil based poly has an amber tone that immediately darkens the wood. This color difference is less noticeable over a stained hardwood floor but an oil based poly will still exhibit an amber hue that will continue to darken over time. Oil based polyurethane is much higher in vocs so it has a strong odor and is not environmentally friendly whereas water based polyurethane is a low voc product with little to no smell.