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Choose the floor poly you use for the right reasons with help from Bona.
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While the popularity of polyurethane finishes for wood floors is undeniable, the choice between using an oil-based or water-based finish can be debatable among flooring professionals. For some floor installers, the choice between oil vs. water-based polyurethane is only a matter of personal preference based on their initial experience with the finish (however long ago that may have been).
Today’s polyurethane finishes offer more durability and benefits for contractors. The decision to use an oil or water-based polyurethane finish should be centered around the needs and choices of clients and the performance capabilities of modern floor finishes. Bona has both water-based finishes and oil-based finishes to give professionals high quality options that provide excellent protection and looks for hardwood floors.
Main Differences Between Oil and Water-based Floor Finishes
When comparing oil and water-based poly, there are some differences that are undeniably true:
Durability of Oil and Water-based Polyurethane
Both floor options can be great choices to finish hardwood floors. Opinions differ on which is better because of the physical properties of each finish type. Oil-based polyurethane is softer than water-based. This makes oil-based floor finishes more susceptible to dents. Though many people believe oil-based finishes are more durable, superior technological advancements to water-based finish have been made in the last 40 years that prove water-based finishes last longer and hold their appearance longer. High quality floor finishes of both types can last about 10 years.
Choosing Between Oil and Water-based Floor Finishes
Here are some considerations to make when choosing between oil-based and water-based polyurethanes.
Bona has a wide range of professional products to help make hardwood floor installations easier and more effective. Check out our coatings page for finishes, sealers, stains and more. For helpful resources and information to keep flooring contractors up to date on product info and industry best practices, view our resources for professionals.