Whether you are planning to install flooring for the first time or just looking to refinish existing floors, there are some different hardwood finishes to consider. Choosing the right polish is crucial as it will not only determine how much maintenance your floors will need, but can also drastically change the look of them. From the traditional to the uber modern, here are five excellent choices to consider.
Hardwood Finish #1: Wax
Wax is essentially the granddaddy of all hardwood finishes as it is the coating that has been used the longest. While it is not as durable as modern poly finishes, it gives your floors a muted, organic feel as opposed to the high-gloss of most modern finishes. Since wax can be reapplied in small areas, it is the most low-maintenance type of finish over the short haul. But, it is more high-maintenance in the long run as it will need to be refinished more often.
Note: If you decide to switch from a wax finish to a polyurethane finish, the wax will need to be entirely removed before the poly finish can be applied.
Hardwood Finish #2: Polyurethane
There are two types of polyurethane to choose from: water based and oil based. Water based poly is more expensive but dries much more quickly and is easy to apply. Water based poly is also low odor and low VOC, while oil based poly has a strong smell and high VOC but also is far more durable. Water-based poly also has an excellent reputation for being far more eco-friendly than oil based and also dries clear, where oil-based poly dries with a slight amber tint. If you want a high-gloss, durable, long-lasting finish, then either oil or water-based poly is probably your best option.
Hardwood Finish #3: Acid-Cured (Swedish)
Often considered the Lamborghini of floor finishes, acid cured finishes are a professional-only floor polish. While they are supposed to be one of the hardiest floor finishes, they are also the most expensive, running between $3.75 to $5 per square foot. While they tend to dry quickly (in around 2 hours), they can take up to 60 days to fully cure. After about three days it is safe to walk on but can take up to two weeks to cure enough to lay furniture on and up to 60 days to put rugs back down so carpet fibers don’t become stuck in the finish.
Hardwood Finish #4: Moisture-Cured Urethane
Moisture-cured urethane is considered one of the hardest finishes available, but also has one of the highest VOC’s. Because it dries so fast, it’s difficult to apply, so it’s not recommended for DIY’ers. Also, because of the high VOC’s – which means fumes can last for weeks – respirators and proper ventilation are must-haves during application; you will also need to plan on vacating your home for at least two weeks following application.
Hardwood Finish #5: Penetrating Oil Sealer
Oil sealers are another more traditional finish, like wax. Oil is easy to apply but is not as durable as a poly finish. It also has a mellower sheen than poly finishes, so it’s a good alternative for those that like the look of wax, but not the labor of applying it. Since the oil penetrates the wood, it can also deepen the color, giving your floor a rich, beautiful finish.
I've spent a considerable amount of time delving into the intricacies of hardwood finishes, so I can confidently guide you through the nuances of each option mentioned in the article. Let's break it down:
Hardwood Finish #1: Wax Wax, the granddaddy of hardwood finishes, exudes a classic charm. While it may lack the durability of modern poly finishes, its muted, organic feel is unmatched. The ability to reapply wax in small areas makes it low-maintenance in the short term but necessitates more frequent refinishing in the long run. It's essential to note that transitioning from a wax to a polyurethane finish requires complete wax removal before applying poly.
Hardwood Finish #2: Polyurethane Polyurethane comes in two variants: water-based and oil-based. Water-based poly is pricier but boasts quick drying and easy application. It's low odor, low VOC, and eco-friendly. On the other hand, oil-based poly, though having a strong smell and high VOC, offers enhanced durability. The choice between the two depends on your preference for a high-gloss, durable finish.
Hardwood Finish #3: Acid-Cured (Swedish) Considered the Lamborghini of floor finishes, acid-cured finishes are for professionals. While highly durable, they come with a hefty price tag ranging from $3.75 to $5 per square foot. Quick drying (around 2 hours), they require patience for full curing—up to 60 days. It's safe to walk on after three days but may take two weeks to allow furniture placement and up to 60 days to put rugs back without risking fibers getting stuck.
Hardwood Finish #4: Moisture-Cured Urethane Moisture-cured urethane ranks as one of the hardest finishes but boasts high VOC levels. Its quick drying makes DIY application challenging, and proper ventilation with respirators is crucial due to fumes lasting for weeks. Vacating your home for at least two weeks post-application is necessary.
Hardwood Finish #5: Penetrating Oil Sealer Penetrating oil sealer, akin to wax, offers a traditional finish. Easy to apply but less durable than poly, it provides a mellower sheen. The oil penetrates the wood, enhancing color for a rich, beautiful finish—an excellent choice for those who appreciate the aesthetic of wax without the labor.
Armed with this knowledge, you can confidently decide which hardwood finish aligns best with your preferences and project requirements.
