Oil Vs Water Polyurethane Finish

Oil based poly s have 45 to 50 of solids while water based polys only contain 30 to 35 of solids.

Oil vs water polyurethane finish. By eliminating oil and using acrylic and other clear resins water based finishes don t yellow as they age. Because water based polyurethanes only contain 30 35 solids vs. Water based polys cost twice as much as oil based polys. Oil based poly is simply more durable and lasts about twice as long as water based polyurethane.

Some waterborne polys go on so clear that you ll have to mark each swath of finish as you go. They won t give wood the rich glow that oil based polys impart. Water based vs oil based polyurethane floor finishes welcome back to another round of ask the home flooring pros. Water based finish goes by many names that may include the words lacquer or polyurethane but most use acrylic or acrylic polyurethane resins in solvent and water.

Most buildings in the city do require water based because of the oil based toxic odors. Oil based polyurethane has a more distinct odor and takes a longer time to dry than water based. It s due to the chemical makeup. Differences between oil based and water based polyurethane oil based polyurethane.

Generally lasts around 10 years. Polyurethane varnish is one of the best finishes for a countertop it s durable and when applied properly can be just as subtle as lacquer. Oil based is softer which can offer greater scratch resistance. Like an oil based finish this substance contains the same synthetic resin adhesives and plasticizers to protect hardwood planks.

Made with synthetic resins and plasticizers water based polyurethane is a very durable finish that resists moisture fairly well although you ll still want to mop up any spills or leaks asap. Wiping varnish usually a type of polyurethane comes premixed but you can make your own by thinning regular varnish. A water based sealer is useful if you have a limited timeline or want an eco friendly coating on the flooring. Water based polyurethane has all the benefits of the oil based ones but it dries a lot.

Oil based contain 45 50 solids you will need to add more coats of water based poly. Oil based polyurethane for countertops. Most water based polys contain only 30 to 35. As a professional flooring company in new york city our 1 choice for polyurethane is the water based bona traffic line.

And when you add in an extra 1 2 coats your cost will increase further. Water based poly tends to cost more than oil based poly.