Oil vs water based polyurethane: Which is best for refinishing hardwood floors?

We offer both options, but I usually recommend oil based polyurethane over water based for dark floors because:

1. It looks better 2. It lasts longer 3. It costs less.

So, it seems like a no brainer, right? Well, usually it is a simple decision, but there certainly are some exceptions based on the color chosen, species of wood, and different customers have different needs.

Oil vs water based polyurethane: Which is best for refinishing hardwood floors?

1

t has a more depth – both in color and shine and it looks the way we expect hardwood to look. Water based polyurethane has both a duller color and a duller finish.

Oil based polyurethane looks better.

There is no contest on the durability between the 2 options. Water based polyurethane has lower VOC’s – which is a bit of an environmental benefit

2

Oil based polyurethane lasts longer than water based.

Oil based polyurethane cost less than water based.

The water-based material is more expensive, so often you will pay around 10-25% more.

3

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