Durable Finishes
Waterborne vs Solvent based finishes
We use waterborne and solvent based finishes, the most durable polyurethane hardwood floor finishes of any kind.
Hardwood floor finishes come in different varieties, Cured Urethanes, Moisture Cured Urethanes, Conversion Varnishes, Penetrating Oils and Wax’s. Essentially though you can confidently narrow your choice down to two options as most hardwood floors are coated with either a Waterborne Borne Urethane or Oil Modified finish.
Both have their pros and cons and once you have heard each side of the story you should be able to determine what type of finish is right for you.
Basic Coatings Streetshoe
This Waterborne finish is environmentally safe with low VOC's, meaning you don't have to necessarily vacate your home during refinishing (please see our FAQ sheet for more info). As the finish dries, water evaporates into the air leaving the protective polyurethane coating on the wood. Waterborne finishes are also non-yellowing and will not change colour over time. Available in gloss, semi-gloss, satin and matt.
- Water Based Pros
- Lower VOC’s (Volatile Organic Compounds)
- Quick-drying which may shorten the process by up to 1 day
- Long lasting and more durable than oil based
- Does not yellow over time
- Less smell
- You may be able to stay in your home during the restoration process
- Water Based Cons
- Not as smooth as oil based so you can feel more of the wood grain through the finish
- Slightly more expensive than oil based
- Due to the quick-drying nature of the finish, some floor plans make it challenging to have a flawless finish
Woodline Polyurethane
A premium, oil-modified wood floor finish formulated for interior use on residential and commercial hardwood floors. Slightly amber in colour it enhances the natural tone of wood, while providing a tough, protective coat Available in gloss, semi-gloss and satin.
- Oil Based Pros
- Thicker, smoother finish than water based
- Slightly less expensive than water based finish
- Ambers over time for a warmer look
- Longer window for application means the finish will be very smooth every time
- Oil Based Cons
- Higher VOC’s (Volatile Organic Compounds)
- More smell
- Longer drying time
- Less durable than water based
- You will not be able to stay in your home during the restoration process
The information presented will hopefully help you to determine what type of finish is best for you. So whether you opt for the silky feel of an oil finish or its environmentally friendly water based counterpart, rest assured that both finishes will give your floors the protection needed to endure the years to come.
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