What The Difference Between Oil And Water Based Polyurethane

Here is another detail.

What the difference between oil and water based polyurethane. The biggest difference is in appearance. This color difference is less noticeable over a stained hardwood floor but an oil based poly will still exhibit an amber hue that will continue to darken over time. Water based polyurethane is able to be used for finishing hardwood floors. Water based polyurethane cost is two to three times higher than oil based products.

Finished with bona oil based polyurethane. Oil based polyurethane is cheaper than water based by a good margin. Oil based polyurethane only requires around two to three coats since it contains 45 to 50 percent of the solids that create the protective finish. When cost and coats are calculated this works out to about 35 to 50 cents per square foot for oil based poly and 80 cents to 1 35 per square foot for water based polyurethane.

There used to be distinct differences between water and oil based polyurethanes when it came to durability. Polyurethane is actually the most durable hardwood floor finish. Today the differences are fairly minor. Water based polys back of lead photo are clear.

Some still insist that durability is the main deciding factor between water based oil based polyurethane. Oil based poly will be slightly more resistant to scratches moisture and heat when compared with water based poly. It will also provide a longer lasting protection which will cut the costs even more. 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.

Oil based used to be unquestionably more durable. High quality water based polyurethanes is considered by many homeowners flooring professionals to be equally durable. Oil based polyurethane front of lead photo adds an amber color and chatoyance. Water based and oil based polyurethane each offer good protection.

But on top of the initial cost you also need to consider. Oil based poly can last around 10 years. Oil based polyurethane cost less than water based. Water based polyurethane has all the benefits of the oil based ones but it dries a lot faster and the odor is not as distinct.

It can be applied using a bristle brush foam roller or a rag. The color of the wood also typically remains the same with water based polyurethane whereas oil based polyurethane can sometimes add a bit of color to the project. Like many finishes polyurethane is named for its primary resin though some cans labeled polyurethane also contain other resins. Resin is what remains behind to form a film once the solvent has evaporated.

The water based material is more expensive so often you will pay around 10 25 more.