Summary comparison of water based vs oil based polyurethane.
Oil vs water based polyurethane floor.
Water based polyurethane dries clear and remains clear.
Water based poly tends to cost more than oil based poly.
Ideal for light colored wood.
More suited for dark color wood.
It s due to the chemical makeup.
Polyurethane is actually the most durable hardwood floor finish.
Oil based contain 45 50 solids you will need to add more coats of water based poly.
Darkens the color of wood adding yellowish tone amber tone continues to darken over time.
As it ages the amber hue deepens.
Water based and oil based polyurethane each offer good protection.
These solids are what make up the poly s protective finish.
And when you add in an extra 1 2 coats your cost will increase further.
The biggest difference is in appearance.
Oil based poly has an amber tone that immediately darkens the wood.
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.
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 poly is simply more durable and lasts about twice as long as water based polyurethane.
Because water based polyurethanes only contain 30 35 solids vs.
Oil based poly has an amber hue whereas water based poly is clear.
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