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