Oil Vs Water Based Polyurethane Floor

The biggest difference is in appearance.

Oil vs water based polyurethane floor.

Summary comparison of water based vs oil based polyurethane. Water based polyurethane dries clear and remains clear. More suited for dark color wood. Here are our expert.

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. Because water based polyurethanes only contain 30 35 solids vs. Oil based poly has an amber tone that immediately darkens the wood. Water based and oil based polyurethane each offer good protection.

Water based poly tends to cost more than oil based poly. 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. These solids are what make up the poly s protective finish. Darkens the color of wood adding yellowish tone amber tone continues to darken over time.

Oil based contain 45 50 solids you will need to add more coats of water based poly. 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. It s due to the chemical makeup.

Oil based poly s have 45 to 50 of solids while water based polys only contain 30 to 35 of solids. Keep in mind that the finish may look a little milky in the can but it dries clear. And when you add in an extra 1 2 coats your cost will increase further. Ideal for light colored wood.

As it ages the amber hue deepens.