QA

Question: How Long Does Water Based Polyurethane Last

Durability: water based: can last around 10 years when high quality product is applied by professionals, inexpensive lower quality product may last only 5-6 years.

What is the main disadvantage of using water based polyurethane?

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.

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.

Will water based polyurethane wash off?

Yes, after it’s dry (and even a bit more after about a week). Different brands and types of clear permanent finish will resist later water exposure better than others though.

How long does water based floor finish last?

Though many people believe oil-based finishes are more durable, superior technological advancements to water-based finish have been made in the last 40 years that prove water-based finishes last longer and hold their appearance longer. High quality floor finishes of both types can last about 10 years.

Is it better to use oil or water based polyurethane?

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 many coats of water based polyurethane do you need on hardwood floors?

So, how many coats of polyurethane to add? You should apply at least three coats of polyurethane on hardwood floors.

Is Minwax water based polyurethane good?

Minwax® Water Based Oil-Modified Polyurethane combines superior durability and the warm look of traditional polyurethane with the convenience of a water-based finish. Lower in odor than traditional solvent-based polyurethanes.

Is Minwax or varathane polyurethane better?

The top two brands for wood finishing products are Minwax and Varathane. Both brands offer wood stains and finishes that come in a wide variety of styles, mixes, and colors. Varathane outperforms Minwax for ease of application and faster drying time, while Minwax is a cheaper option.

Can oil based polyurethane go over water based?

Flooring wholesalers and veteran floor finishers agree that you can recoat water-based poly with oil-based as long as the original coating has completely cured—generally 30 to 60 days. You’ll have to lightly buff the old finish with a power buffer to prepare it for the new polyurethane.

How long will polyurethane last?

Gloss oil-based varnish, polyurethane and Danish oil can last 10 or 20 years, though satin finishes and stains may fail sooner as pigments and flattening agents disable the driers. Water-based coatings and paints can also be viable longer than three years.

How do I get a smooth finish with water based polyurethane?

First use a degreaser cleaner like Formula 409 or Fantastik to clean away any buildup of grease or cooking oil. Scuff-sand the old finish with fine synthetic wool, then seal with Zinsser SealCoat. Sand the seal coat with fine synthetic wool, then brush on two to three coats of water-based poly to complete the job.

How long does polyurethane last outside?

Polyurethane: How Much Do You Need & How Long Will It Last? 12 months – The length of time a poly should be usable after you open the can.

How long will polyurethane floors last?

What a new coat of polyurethane does is it adds another layer of protection to your floors, extending the life of the floors usually for another 3-5 years. Doing this every 4-6 years will prevent you from ever having to fully refinishing your floors again.

How good is water based polyurethane?

Water-Based Polyurethane Finishes Like the oil-based polyurethane, water-based polyurethane can form a hard protective film, but more applications are required. Because water-based polyurethane dry quickly, more coats can be applied in less time than with oil-based products.

Is water based or oil based polyurethane better for floors?

Oil based poly is a thicker poly, but it is also softer. Water based poly, an acrylic product, forms 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 seal wood?

No, polyurethane does not make hardwood waterproof, but it does make wood water resistant. Polyurethane gives hardwood its protection. It repels water and prevents water absorption, but it never fully blocks it so it will never make it 100% waterproof. Polyurethane also protects wood for scratches and discoloration.

Is water based polyurethane shiny?

It 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. As you can see from this picture, the difference is pretty dramatic.

How long does water based polyurethane take to dry?

It takes anywhere from 2 hours to 24 hours for the polyurethane to dry, depending on the type of polyurethane you use. Water-based polyurethane takes about 2 hours while oil-based polyurethane needs about 8 hours to dry.