Cons. Water-based polys cost twice as much as oil-based polys. They won't give wood the rich glow that oil-based polys impart; some even consider them cold looking. Some waterborne polys go on so clear that you'll have to mark each swath of finish as you go.

Is water based polyurethane scratch resistant?

Water-based polyurethane is perfect for floors as it can be applied quickly and dries just as fast. It is also scratch and scuff-resistant, waterproof, and dries just as hard as oil-based poly.

How long does water based polyurethane last?

Durability and Longevity

Water-based polyurethane typically lasts about 3 to 5 years at maximum shine and performance, compared to a varnish or oil-based polyurethane's 7 to 10 years. But that depends on a few considerations: High-traffic areas wear down much faster than areas of the floor that rarely see action.

Is water based polyurethane less durable?

High quality water based polyurethanes is considered by many homeowners & flooring professionals to be equally durable. Oil based poly can last around 10 years. Water based poly can have the same longevity. The key is using high quality water based poly like Bona Traffic and having it applied by a professional.

What are the advantages of using a water based finish?

Faster Dry Times

Multiple coats of waterbased finish can be applied in one day. The coating job will take less time and the floor can be back in use faster.

Quick Tip #6 - Oil & Water Based Polyurethane - Which is Better?

Whats the difference between water based and oil based polyurethane?

THICKNESS AND HARDNESS: Oil based poly is a thicker poly, but it is also softer. Water-based poly, an acrylic product, is a thinner, but harder coating. Oil poly can be more susceptible to dents, while water-based poly can be more susceptible to surface scratching.

Does water based polyurethane yellow?

Water borne poly yellows less than oil based poly (which turns very yellow). The the amount of yellowing over time will vary based on the strength and grade of the polyurethane. Both wood and poly will react with UV rays.

Is water based polyurethane safe?

Water based polyurethane is safe to apply without a respirator, and will not stink up the house like an oil based poly. It is safe for people and pets to occupy a house while undergoing coatings of water based poly.

Is oil based polyurethane more durable than water based?

Oil based polyurethane lasts longer than water based.

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 (more about that in a moment) - but because it has lower VOC's (Volatile Organic Compounds), it doesn't last as long.

How long does water based polyurethane take to dry?

Water-based polyurethane can dry on hardwood floors in as little as 4 hours. After this, you may walk on the floor with socks. Within three days you can start moving furniture back on it. However, it may take up to 21 days for water-based polyurethane to fully cure.

How do you care for water based polyurethane?

How do you clean a water based polyurethane floor? Dirt, oil, and grime build up over time and aren't entirely removed by a weekly dust mopping or vacuuming. For the occasional thorough cleaning, you need to damp mop. Be careful not to allow water to stand on the floor.

What is the most durable polyurethane?

The best and most durable finish for water based polyurethane is Bona Traffic HD and for oil based poly, Duraseal. The steps generally get the most traffic and wear and tear (along with hallways), so it's even more important to have a high grade finish in these areas.

Can you spray water based polyurethane?

Can You Spray Oil-Based and Water-Based Polyurethane? Yes, you can spray both types of polyurethane. The spraying method for both types is the same; you just need to read the instructions and thin the polyurethane paint accurately.

Is water polyurethane waterproof?

Does polyurethane protect wood from water? Yes, polyurethane provides a protective layer on hardwood (as well as furniture) making it harder for water to penetrate into the wood. But, it is not waterproof; rather, it's water resistant.

How hard is water based polyurethane?

Most water-based polys contain only 30 to 35 percent solids, compared with the 45 to 50 percent solids in oil-based products. Pro tip: Since these solids create the protective finish, you need to apply four coats, as opposed to two or three.

Can water based polyurethane be used over oil stain?

Yes, you can apply water-based polyurethane over oil-based stain. You may be thinking, “But oil and water don't mix,” and you'll be right. You won't be mixing them; you'd just be applying the polyurethane over the stain.

Does water based polyurethane soak into wood?

The first coat will really soak into the wood, so after it dries do not worry about sanding.

What is the downside of oil based polyurethane?

The Cons: Oil-based polyurethane finishes take longer to dry than water-based finishes. This makes it more of a time-consuming process to refinish your floor as you must wait until one coat dries before applying the next coat of finish. This finish is not suitable for all woods.

What are the side effects of polyurethane?

When left uncured, polyurethane can cause asthma and other breathing problems. Those who spend time in rooms that have uncured polyurethane floor treatments may also experience health issues like throat and eye irritation, nausea, vomiting, headaches, coughing, and shortness of breath.

Is water based polyurethane toxic after it dries?

Polyurethane is most toxic during application and while it dries. Once it's fully dry, it's free of toxins, and you can barely detect its smell in the air: unless you go sniffing the finished surfaces.

Is water based polyurethane flammable?

Our personal opinion is that waterborne polyurethane is better because it is only slightly less durable, has more applications since it doesn't yellow over time, smells less and isn't flammable. To summarise: Water-Based Polyurethane: Fast drying.

What kind of polyurethane does not turn yellow?

The Best Non-Yellowing Water-Based Polyurethane

The best non-yellowing clear coat is Minwax's Polycrylic. It's easy to use, dries within a few hours, can be applied multiple times within 24 hours, dries completely clear, and doesn't yellow over time.

How do you keep polyurethane from turning yellow?

Preventing Polyurethane from Turning Yellow

Apply polyurethane in thin layers. While this won't directly prevent the polyurethane from going yellow, it will cause the yellowness to be much less and make it easier to sand the polyurethane off for a re-coat if required. Use water-based polyurethane.

What is the best clear coat for wood?

Polyurethane wood finishes are synthetic coatings that are highly durable and water resistant, making them the best clear coat for wood protection.