Applying a wood stain to floors brings out the beauty of the wood and protects the flooring at the same time. Over time wood floors get scuffed and nicked but this will help minimize the damage done to floors. There are two types of polyurethane used for this purpose, water-based and oil-based. The best one for you will depend on your preferences.
The difference between the two products isn’t one of better and worse. Both types offer excellent results. It’s the project being done that determines our choice of product. Water-based applications are better for some projects than oil-based and vice-versa.
Many years ago people used oil-based because they believed it offered more durability and lasted longer. But today, there are water-based products that last just as long and offer the same results as oil-based polyurethanes. Either one will produce the same beautiful results.
Determining Choice
When determining which product to use you will need to ask yourself: (1.) Can you tolerate strong odors, (2.) Does your family have somewhere to go for a couple of days while the floors dry, (3.) Do you want to change the colors of the wood by using a darker oil-based product? These are considerations for using oil-based applications. Water-based will be different.
Differences Between Products
The differences between these two products are the drying time & odor from VOC’s, and the effect it has on the wood color. Oil-based has a high level of VOC fumes & takes longer to dry. When applying you will need 2 - 3 coats to make a strong protective coating and that will take anywhere from 3 - 5 days drying time. While drying the toxic fumes can be quite odorous and tend to permeate the entire house, hence the need for the entire family to spend a few days somewhere else while the floors dry.
Durability
Oil-based used to be the more durable choice in years past. Today though, water-based polyurethane has been developed with better formulations that are equally as durable as oil based polyurethane formulas lasting 10 years or more. Both products are equally durable and having it applied by a flooring professional ensures a good application and long-lasting results.
Cost
Price is really not a significant factor unless you’re doing it yourself. High-quality water-based polyurethane is recommended only for professional use. Due to the fast drying time it must be applied and without mistakes. If not done properly it can result in bubbles & overlapping lines. The cost difference between the two can be significant for the price of the polyurethane itself. Quality water-based polyurethane can sometimes cost 2-3x that of oil-based. However, because oil-based has a longer drying time and repeat applications, the contractors’ price is often about the same for both.
Fumes and Odors
Vacating your entire household may not be an option for youtube use oil-based polyurethane. The fumes can linger in rooms for a couple of days and affect the breathing of people with asthma. The odor can also settle into rugs, curtains, bedding & clothing.
Water-based polyurethane does not require vacating the house or using a respirator to apply. It has very low odor and is safe to use while the house is occupied. A nice feature is that all the coats can be applied on the same day. It can take up to 7 days to fully cure but the floor can be walked on after 24 hours. Wait to replace area rugs until the floor has fully dried. Furniture can be replaced after 3 days drying time.
Wood Color Changes
Water based dries clear so wood keeps its natural color and beauty. It doesn’t change the wood color at all. This is better for certain types of wood where you don’t want to alter the color like gray or white.
Oil based floor finish goes better with wood that has darker or yellowish tones. It will add an amber tone that darkens over time. It’s a matter of preference really. The color change can be viewed as an enhancement in some cases.
Summary of Water Based and Oil Based Polyurethane
Drying time:
- Water-based polyurethane dries quickly and can be recoated in 4 hours.
- Oil based poly takes longer to dry and can only be recoated once per day. Must wait 24 hours before walking on the floor and 48 hours before moving furniture.
Fumes/Odor:
- Water based finish has little odor. No respirator is needed, but you might want to let in a little fresh air while working.
- Oil based polyurethane has a strong odor and can produce toxic fumes. We recommend wearing a respirator and removing people and pets from the home while applying it. The odor should disappear after the floor has fully dried or within a few days after.
Durability:
Both products are long-lasting, however, they do wear differently.
- Water based poly is more susceptible to abrasion caused by debris brought inside like dirt and needles. Vacuum your flooring regularly using a hardwood floor vacuum.
- Oil-based finishes don’t scratch as easily, but they do dent. It’s important to put pads under furniture to prevent denting and keep the debris cleared away by vacuuming.
The look of your floors is what really matters. Drying times, odor, and cost are small factors when deciding whether to use water-based vs. oil-based polyurethane. Odors disappear over time and the cost will not matter when company comes over to admire your beautiful home. It really is just personal preference when it comes to deciding between the two. If you would like to know more about hardwood flooring installation or floor stain options like water-based or oil-based for your home, contact us for a free estimate.
