Solid Hardwood, Engineered and Laminate Flooring - Oil vs. water based wood floor finish

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akw999
10-21-02, 06:20 PM
I am planning to sand and finish my floor. I've heard that oil is more durable than water based, but oil is much harder to work with. For example, oil is smellier, more difficult to clean up after, you must apply the next coat while it's still tacky, etc. Is this true? Are there any other disadvantages to water based?

Thanks.

fewalt
10-21-02, 07:42 PM
akw999,
Re oil polys "you must apply the next coat while it's still tacky"

Negative. Each coat must be allowed to dry completely for atleast 24 hrs. Then sanded lightly (about 220) grit paper, all dust removed (tacked) before the next coat is applied.

The disadvantages of waterbase poly: It raises the grain of the wood considerably, requires more sanding to smooth. It is slightly more difficult to apply evenly.

I suggest you do a test of each before you decide.

fred