Oil Vs Water Based Polyurethane Floor
Because water based polyurethanes only contain 30 35 solids vs.
Oil vs water based polyurethane floor. Unlike oil based polyurethane water based hardwood floor sealer has a transparent shiny finish and it doesn t add a yellow tint to your hardwood floors. It s due to the chemical makeup. The biggest difference is in appearance. Keep in mind that the finish may look a little milky in the can but it dries clear.
These solids are what make up the poly s protective finish. Oil based poly has an amber hue whereas water based poly is clear. Water based and oil based polyurethane each offer good protection. Water based poly tends to cost more than oil based poly.
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. Polyurethane is actually the most durable hardwood floor finish. As it ages the amber hue deepens.
Oil based poly has an amber tone that immediately darkens the wood. And when you add in an extra 1 2 coats your cost will increase further. Darkens the color of wood adding yellowish tone amber tone continues to darken over time. Doesn t change color of wood dries clear and stays clear.
Oil based contain 45 50 solids you will need to add more coats of water based poly. Ideal for light colored wood. Summary comparison of water based vs oil based polyurethane. Water based polyurethane dries clear and remains clear.
Oil based poly is simply more durable and lasts about twice as long as water based polyurethane.