Wood floor finishing choices
The choices for applying a protective coating to your wood flooring have never been more customizable. Listed below are our various options for finishing your wood flooring. We highlight the value points of each finish.
Keep in mind that all wood finishes have specific maintenance requirements following application to maintain their lifespan. We will educate you on the maintenance during the project and ensure you have the proper care products.
Conversion varnish
Often referred to as Swedish finish, these finishes have a time tested reputation for durability and retaining their optical clarity.
Conversion varnish is a fast-drying finish that comes in two parts: the finish and an acid catalyst you add to the finish just before application. The catalyst brings about the cross-linking.
Unique to conversion varnish is the chemical bonding process that occurs during curing. These finishes have exceptional long term adhesion, scratch, and chemical resistance.
This finish is a great choice in residential homes with pets.
Length of Time Required to vacate the property:
1-2 evenings while the coating has dried and the coating solvents have evacuated the home.
Oil Based Polyurethane
Urethane is a protective resin. This resin is solubilized in “oil”, a mixture of solvents. As the solvent escapes the coating, the protective layer remains.
Due to their simple composition, these finishes are ideal for more cost conscious clients. This finish has good durability when maintained properly. They will develop a patina through the coating layers over time.
Length of Time Required to vacate the property:
1-2 evenings while the coating has dried and the coating solvents have evacuated the home.
Water-based Polyurethane
The significant advantage of waterbased products is their accelerated cure time and minimal odor. There are caveats worthy of discussion:
- Single component – this product class is catalyzed by oxygen rather than a chemical catalyst. Generally these products are lower in cost and overall durability.
- Two component- chemically cross-linked finishes have improved scuff and chemical resistance.
- Sanding quality affects long term durability. Roughly sanded (very porous) floors will absorb disproportionate amounts of the coating. Which can result in in irregular gloss levels and premature wear over time.
- Number of coats applied does not necessarily equal “more durability”. Application rate can be influenced heavily by the contractor and application method. We prefer to roll our finishes based on the consistent results for appearance and durability.
Length of Time Required to vacate the property:
24 hours minimum while the coating has dried and the coating solvents have evacuated the home.
Burnished Hard Surface impregnating Oils
This class of products impregnate the grain of wood flooring with protective solids typically made from plant derived resins. Sanding quality and application are paramount for longevity and appearance. Poor quality sanding will result in a very lackluster appearance for these oils.
These products require a more hands on maintenance schedule than a typical urethane coated floor.
However, they are simpler to repair and service for appearance. They are an ideal product for homeowners who prefer a more natural looking and feeling wood surface.
These products are quickly catalyzed and the floor is cured and available for use within 24 hours of application.
Length of Time Required to vacate the property:
24 hours minimum while the product cures and solvents have evacuated the home.
