Hardwax oil finishes are the last in the category of hardwood floor finish, and they aren’t considered a typical polyurethane. They fall more along the lines of oily wax. These finishes are the most eco-friendly as they let off very low amounts of VOCs. However, we’ve found that they can still smell quite harsh and the gasses can be quite toxic. This is especially true for projects larger than 500 square feet.
The wax finishes typically take 24-48 hours to fully dry. They can take upwards of 14-15 days to fully cure. Meaning you’ll want to leave any surface area rugs off of the floors until then to avoid light spots. Since these finishes are still considered oil, they will behave like oil and change color over time. My favorite wax-based finish to use is Rubio Monocoat.
Concluding thoughts and why it’s best to stay out of the home
In conclusion, I think it’s important to note that there are many finishes out there and the drying/curing times of all of them can vary depending on the specific brand of polyurethane, the humidity and temperature of your home, the thickness of the finish applied, and even the weather factors happening outside of your home.
Always follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding drying and curing times and consult with a professional if you have any doubts or concerns. But in most cases, play it safe and stay out of the home for a couple of days. After all, nobody wants to have their clothes and themselves smelling like icky oil all night long while trying to sleep! It’s important to note that if you have any fish or pets, without a doubt you should also relocate them for the duration of your flooring project.
While polyurethane is a great way to protect and enhance the appearance of your hardwood floors, it's important to understand the risks and precautions involved. It is also important to understand that your specific scenario will vary greatly depending on your location and flooring project. More often than not, it’s best to rely on the recommendation of the flooring contractor you have hired.
The duration of time you should stay out of the house will greatly depend on the type of finish you use, with oil-based by far requiring more time for drying and curing than water-based. Always consult with a professional and follow the manufacturer's instructions to ensure that the installation is done correctly and safely.
Call Plus Hardwood Flooring today at (773) 954-4982 or send us an email through our contact page for a free estimate!
As a seasoned expert in the realm of hardwood flooring and finishes, my extensive experience and knowledge empower me to shed light on the nuances of hardwax oil finishes and related concepts.
Hardwax Oil Finishes: Unveiling the Essence
Hardwax oil finishes represent the pinnacle in hardwood floor finishing, distinguishing themselves from the conventional polyurethane counterparts. Positioned more in alignment with oily wax, these finishes boast eco-friendliness by emitting minimal Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). However, my comprehensive understanding reveals a subtle paradox; despite their environmental benefits, these finishes can still emanate a potent and somewhat toxic odor, particularly in larger projects exceeding 500 square feet.
Drying and Curing Dynamics: A Delicate Balance
One distinctive trait of hardwax oil finishes is their drying and curing times. It's crucial to recognize that the drying period spans 24-48 hours, but achieving full cure status can take a considerably longer duration—upwards of 14-15 days. During this period, caution is warranted to prevent the formation of light spots, necessitating the avoidance of surface area rugs on the floors.
Color Evolution: The Unfolding Palette
Being oil-based, hardwax finishes exhibit a behavior typical of oils—changing color over time. This evolving aesthetic quality adds a unique dimension to hardwood floors, reflecting the inherent nature of the finish.
Favorite Wax-Based Finish: Rubio Monocoat
Drawing from my wealth of experience, I hold Rubio Monocoat in high regard as a preferred wax-based finish. Its performance and characteristics align with my discerning standards, making it a top choice in the realm of hardwax oil finishes.
Conclusion: Navigating the Finish Landscape
In concluding the discourse, it's paramount to acknowledge the diverse array of finishes available. The drying and curing times, influenced by factors such as brand, humidity, temperature, thickness of application, and external weather conditions, underline the complexity of the decision-making process. I advocate a cautious approach, adhering to manufacturer instructions and seeking professional guidance to ensure a successful and safe flooring project.
Precautions and Considerations: Beyond Drying Times
Emphasizing the importance of staying out of the home during and after the flooring project, I underscore the need to consider the olfactory impact. Nobody desires the lingering scent of oil during a good night's sleep. Additionally, pet and fish owners must relocate their companions to ensure their well-being.
Tailored Advice and Professional Guidance
While polyurethane stands out as an effective protector and enhancer of hardwood floors, the risks and precautions involved necessitate thorough understanding. The duration for staying out of the house varies based on the type of finish, with oil-based options demanding more time for drying and curing compared to their water-based counterparts. Relying on the expertise of a flooring contractor becomes crucial, with specific recommendations tailored to the unique aspects of your location and flooring project.
Closing Invitation to Expert Consultation
In light of these insights, I extend an invitation to engage with Plus Hardwood Flooring, leveraging their expertise and obtaining a free estimate. Contacting them at (773) 954-4982 or through their email ensures a seamless and informed flooring experience.
