Oil Vs Water Based Polyurethane Furniture

Oil based used to be unquestionably more durable.

Oil vs water based polyurethane furniture. It has a more depth both in color and shine and it looks the way we expect hardwood to look. The first is that it s virtually free of volatile organic compounds although the isocyanates in most formulations. However it has been discovered in recent years that water based polyurethane works just as well. It is also significantly less toxic.

Water based polys cost twice as much as oil based polys. Water based polyurethane has two important advantages over the oil based variety. They won t give wood the rich glow that oil based polys impart. There are three primary considerations.

In terms of durability oil based polyurethane has its water based counterpart beat. Oil based polyurethane has a more distinct odor and takes a longer time to dry than water based ones. Color odor and drying time. Oil based poly can last around 10 years.

Water based polyurethane dries faster and is an ideal choice for indoor furniture or surfaces that are not constantly bombarded by extreme temperatures like picture frames desks bookshelves and side tables. Some waterborne polys go on so clear. Some even consider them cold looking. It basically has two kinds.

Polyurethane paints and varnishes used to only be oil based. However it has been discovered in recent years that water based polyurethane works just as well. Water based polyurethane has both a duller color and a duller finish. As you can see from this picture the difference is pretty dramatic.

It basically has two kinds. High quality water based polyurethanes is considered by many homeowners flooring professionals to be equally durable. Some woodworkers dislike the yellow cast oil based polyurethane puts on white woods such as maple. When clear this type of resin is mostly used for woodwork and furniture.

Polyurethane paints and varnishes used to only be oil based.