Polyurethane is a synthetic polymer coating applied on flooring, especially hardwood materials. There are numerous benefits of applying a polyurethane top-coat such as enhanced durability, scratch protection, improved flooring finish, ease of maintenance, and so on. There are two types of polyurethane available on the market i.e. water-based and oil-based polyurethane.
If you’re confused about what polyurethane type will best suit your hardwood flooring, this post by Flooring Expert Dubai will help you make an informed decision based on various aspects.
The Best Polyurethane Top-Coat For Flooring: Types Explained
Polyurethane is available in two forms i.e. water-based and oil-based. The benefits, drawbacks, applications, precautions, installation methods, costs, and more vary depending on the polyurethane type you select. Here, we’ve explained both the types.
1. Oil-Based Polyurethane
It’s a hard, protective covering and that’s why it’s preferred for hardwood application in high-traffic interiors. This extraordinary durable finish is the best remedy against abrasion and scratch damage for hardwood flooring. Furthermore, it enlightens the hardwood surfaces and adds to their visual appeal significantly with its rich, golden glow.
However, there are some downsides to it as well. First of all, it takes much longer to dry post-application compared to water-based polyurethane. Adding further, the cleanup of oil-based polyurethane is also difficult meaning you’ll have to use mineral spirit of paint thinner for this purpose.
2. Water-Based Polyurethane
It’s the opposite of oil-based polyurethane because it’s quick to dry and easy to apply on hardwood flooring surfaces. The best thing about water-based polyurethane is the clean-up. It takes only soap and water for efficient removal post-application and no fancy chemicals are required. It’s a thinner and flexible hardwood floor coating that protects the real-time appearance of your valuable investment. Sounds like a perfect retreat, isn’t it?
Well, there are imperfections and irregularities with water-based polyurethane. At first, the problem is the risk of scratches and abrasions. Even though, it’s durable but not as much as its counterpart. Therefore, you’ll have to apply several coats to attain the same level of durability and resilience as its competition.
The Important Factors To Keep In View For Polyurethane Purchase
There are a few considerations that you must know before making a purchase decision for polyurethane purchase. Below, we’ve explained these important factors.
1. Environmental Impact
You need to consider the environmental impact of polyurethane top-coat. If you want to make an eco-friendly choice, then water-based polyurethane is more suitable compared to its counterpart. The reason for having said that is the quantity of VOC content (Volatile Organic Compounds). VOCs are organic solvents that over time evaporate into the air and contribute to air pollution.
2. Ease of Application
Water-based polyurethane is easier to apply on hardwood flooring surfaces and takes less time to dry. As already mentioned, you need no fancy or expensive cleaning agents for its cleanup and only soap and water are enough for efficient removal. It’s recommended that you hire a professional to perform the application of polyurethane topcoat.
However, you need to consider your busy schedule or get to know the estimated time for project completion beforehand by professionals. The same goes the case if you want to DIY apply the polyurethane coat on hardwood flooring.
3. Flooring Compatibility
You must be wondering what’s with flooring compatibility. It’s because a certain type of polyurethane may not adhere well to certain types of wood or may react with existing finishes. Therefore, you should consult professionals before purchasing a polyurethane topcoat. One additional and beneficial tip is that you should apply polyurethane to a small section or area of the hardwood floor and see for reactivity or damage to protect your valuable investment.
The Application of Polyurethane: The Technique & Precautions
Polyurethane is a safe compound but one’s safety should be on priority always. Here, we’ve summarized some key points and aspects that you should take care of when applying polyurethane DIY (if you’re keen to undertake this challenge).
- You should always read the manufacturer’s guidelines before applying polyurethane for a better understanding of the product.
- You should be extremely careful to avoid skin contact with polyurethane and therefore, gloves must be used.
- If you’re dealing with oil-based polyurethane, there may be vapors (invisible) upon application that should not be inhaled. Therefore, it’s better to arrange for adequate ventilation before application of polyurethane.
- There must be no moisture because polyurethane is moisture-sensitive. Even the minimal moisture content in the air can affect the performance and durability of polyurethane topcoats.
- Always store polyurethane post-application in a cool and dry place with its lid closed to avoid moisture absorption.
About the installation technique, it’s not a science. There are three steps if performed efficiently and expertly can produce desirable outcomes and impart professional-like durability to your polyurethane floor coating.
- The first step is the preparation of the subfloor. It means you need to clean your hardwood flooring with no dust, dirt, or debris left behind. It’s necessary for perfect adhesion of polyurethane.
- Now comes the time to apply polyurethane to the hardwood flooring surface. For this purpose, you’ll need a brush and coat thin but even layers of polyurethane on hardwood flooring. Alternatively, you can use a roller to apply polyurethane as well.
- Let the polyurethane topcoat dry on its own (air-dry). It takes 6 hours for water-based and 24 hours for oil-based polyurethane to dry.
What Factors Influence The Cost of Polyurethane Coating?
The cost of oil-based and water-based polyurethane is not the same. And, water-based polyurethane costs 2-3 times more as compared to its counterpart. The cost is dependent on two factors such as the type of varnish and the coverage area. The installation cost (if you hire professionals to do the job) is additional to the purchase cost obviously. Take into account your budget limit before purchasing polyurethane coating for hardwood floors.
In Conclusion
Your flooring-specific needs and personal preferences are the deciding factors behind whether to choose oil-based or water-based polyurethane coating. For a durable and glowing finish, oil-based polyurethane is the best choice. On the other hand, water-based polyurethane saves precious time in your busy schedule and many more benefits.