Oil-based vs water based polyurethane
Polyurethane is a chemical compound (polymer)that contains several organic units. These units are usually joined together using urethane bonds. Polyurethane exists in two forms, that is, flexible and rigid. One of the uses of flexible structures is the production of chemical-resistant coatings. Such coatings are generally used for finishing purposes at home. A good example of an area that is usually finished using polyurethane is the floor. Speaking of finishing floors, there are two main types of polyurethane that are commonly used in this case. These two types are; oil-based and water-based. This article focuses on these two types, how different and effective on floors they are.
Oil-based vs water-based polyurethane for floors
Both of these polyurethane types are flexible. They are used for coating floors to prevent scratches that might occur. Each one of them when well applied, have incredible strength in terms of protection from damage and durability.
However, they have some noticeable differences. Some of these differences include;
| Oil-based polyurethane | Water-based polyurethane |
| Has an amber colour | It is clear |
| Has a severe fumy odor | Has a light odor |
| It takes 24 hours to dry after application | It takes 4-6 hours to dry after application |
| The coating is thick and soft | The coat is thin and hard |
| It is quite cheap | It is expensive |
| Has a smooth finish | Has a rough finish |
Colour
Oil-based polyurethane has an amber hue colour. When applied, thiscolor deepens over time.
Water-based polyurethane is usually clear, and it remains so even after it dries.
Odor
Oil-based polyurethanehasa strong pungent odor. While drying, it produces smelly fumes that are toxic if inhaled. Therefore, one should wear a respirator while applying it.
Water-based polyurethane, on the other hand, has a very light smell. Since it almost has no scent; wearing a respirator while applying this type of polyurethane is not necessary.
Drying and curing period
Oil-based polyurethane takes a lot of time to dry and cure. One is supposed to wait for at least 24 hours before he/she can step on the floor. After drying, it takes one, 24 more hours to be able to move in furniture to the room where it has been used.
Water-based polyurethane takes lesser hours to cure as compared to the oil-based polyurethane. It usually takes approximately 4-6 hours. Furniture can be moved on to the floor in 12 hours after final coat application.
Hardness and Thickness
The coating of oil-based polyurethane is thick and soft. Due to its thickness nature, it is advisable to apply a minimum of two coats. This type is very predisposed to denting due to its soft nature. To prevent dents on the floor, one can place pads under furniture feet to increase durability.
Water-based polyurethane coatings, on the other hand, are thin and hard. For this reason, the polys are always vulnerable to scratches. One should apply a minimum of three coats to make it more reliable and durable.
Cost
Water-based polyurethane products are more expensive as compare to oil-based polyurethane products.
Note:
This is an essential fact to know so that if you find someone who is selling it at a lower price than an oil base polyurethane, you know that the product might be fake thus not long-lasting.
Texture
Oil-based poly coats are said to be smoother as compared to water-based poly coats.
Types of Water-based Polyurethane and their uses.
1) Bona Mega Wood Floor Finish
This product has no additives, so it provides the wood floor with the natural beauty of the wood. The product is available in gloss, semi-gloss and satin form.
2) Bona Mega Clear HD
The primary purpose for using this poly is to boost the look of the floor. It consists of chemicals that are resistant to scratch, so it makes the finish last longer.
3) ZAR Aqua Water Based Poly
Many people usually choose this product due to its incredible benefits. It has some components which are highly resistant to most household chemicals. Therefore it is a suitable protector of floors.
4) Deft Water-based poly.
It is available in a gloss finish. It is modified to provide added protection against sun waves, wind and water damage. It can be used both internally and externally.
5) Rust-Oleum Varathane floor Finish
The primary feature of this water-based poly is its durability. It is mostly used on wooden floors.
Types of Oil-based Urethane and their uses
1) ZAR Oil-Based Polyurethane Wood Finish
The main feature of this poly is its fast drying time. It also provides a very smooth finish.
2)Dura-Seal Polyurethane
It is one of the most durable polys. It is also inexpensive and covers a vast space.
3) Rust-Oleum Oil Polyurethane
This poly is formulated to provide a thick coat. Its dense nature helps in preventing it from soaking in the wood. It also does not take so long to dry.
Is water-based or oil-based polyurethane better for floors?
Oil-based polyurethane is the better poly for finishing floor because it looks better and lasts longer as compared to water-based polys. It is also cheaper.
How can you tell if polyurethane is oil or water?
One can use these three methods to determine whether the polyurethane is oil or water-based.
- Touch– When already applied, oil-based floors feel smoother than water-based floor.
- Use of a cotton ball and alcohol-If wiping a floor with a cotton ball with alcohol removes the stain that means it is water-based poly. Oil-based polys do not react with alcohol.
- Water beads-If by sprinkling a little amount of water on the stained area water beads are formed, that is an oil-based poly. Oil-based polys are more resistant to water as compared to water-based polys.
Conclusion
Applying polyurethane isimportant since it makes the floors and surfaces more durable and attractive. During this task, the major challenge is getting to know which type of polyurethane to use. The above information suits one to go for the best kind of polyurethane as it well describes the differences, uses, types, better option. It also talks about the ways in which one can tell the model used.