Hardwood floors are prone to aging over time and require refinishing to remove stains and marks and look as good as new. There are two options for refinishing hardwood floors – oil-based polyurethane and water-based polyurethane.

Let’s look at both types of polyurethane and see which one is better for refinishing hardwood flooring.

Oil-Based Polyurethane

Oil-based polyurethane provides a better appearance when it is used to refinish hardwood floors. The application of oil-based polyurethane on old hardwood floors allows the flooring to look more natural and closely resemble hardwood.

Oil-based polyurethane has more depth in color and a better shine. Plus, it darkens after some time, which gives it a richer look.

Moreover, oil-based polyurethane offers more durability. You only need to apply approximately three coatings, and it will last about ten years.

Lastly, the initial cost of applying a coating of oil-based polyurethane is about 10 to 25% less expensive compared to water-based polyurethane. It also lasts longer, so you don’t need to reapply and bear the cost of the application again after a few years.

Water-Based Polyurethane

A major advantage of water-based polyurethane is that it’s environmentally friendly and doesn’t have a negative impact on the planet. This type of polyurethane contains a lesser quantity or zero volatile organic compounds or VOCs.

Also, the production process of water-based polyurethane is eco-friendly and doesn’t produce a lot of waste or cause pollution. Water-based polyurethane also doesn’t contain hazardous chemicals which are toxic and harmful.

Water-based polyurethane dries faster, so you can complete the job of refinishing hardwood flooring within two days. This is beneficial for homeowners and business owners who don’t want to close their residential or commercial space for a long time.

As water-based polyurethane doesn’t contain harmful toxins, it also has good breathability and doesn’t smell bad. However, it has less durability and needs to be reapplied within five to six years.

Are you searching for a water based polyurethane supplier? Get in touch with us at SiwoPUD. We offer water-borne polyurethane for coatings and water-based polyurethane leather. Contact us today to order waterborne polyurethane for wood coatings.