Water-based polyurethane finish is the best polyurethane for hardwood floors, and many consider it the future of polyurethanes. High-level water-based polyurethane is as durable as oil, easier to apply, and better for you, your family, your pets, and the environment.
Varathane Water-Based Clear Gloss Polyurethane is a top choice for high-traffic areas. This fast-drying floor varnish is designed to resist scuffs, abrasions, and scratches, making it ideal for busy households or commercial spaces.
Types of Clear Coats Available
Oil-Based Polyurethane: Known for its durability and warm, amber finish. However, it takes longer to dry and has a strong odor. Water-Based Polyurethane: Dries faster, has less odor, and maintains the wood's natural color, making it ideal for light-colored woods.
The best clear coat for wood depends on the specific application and desired finish. Polyurethane, lacquer, and shellac are popular options known for their durability and clarity. Water-based polyurethane is a good choice for its low odor and easy cleanup, while traditional varnishes provide a classic, glossy finish.
1. Aluminum Oxide. Aluminum oxide is a naturally occurring mineral that provides an extremely long-lasting protective coating on hardwood floors. It protects the floor from scratches, fading, water damage, scuffs, and general wear and tear without changing the color of the wood or hiding its grain.
While varnish is the more preferred choice for outdoor surfaces, polyurethane is certainly better suited for indoor household projects. Both of them offer varied colour options, durability, and protection against elements. However, polyurethane is the better option for your interior hardwood floor.
In light of that, we prefer sealing over coating. Sealing wood protects wood from moisture and brings out its natural beauty at the same time. Sealer also allows wood to age gracefully. So much so, that the aesthetic differences between sealing and coating are truly remarkable.
If you're short on time, here's a quick overview: Composition: Polycrylic is water-based, while polyurethane can be oil-based or water-based. Application: Polycrylic applies in thin coats and dries quickly; polyurethane takes longer to dry.
It's normal for directions to call for sanding between every coat (once it's dried), or before the final coat, and it can really make all the difference in a project. Sanding clear finish takes a fraction of the time it takes to sand wood and it's always, always worth it.
There are four basic choices for clear coating bare wood: oil, varnish (including polyurethane), sprayed lacquer, and shellac.
Water-based polyurethane can be the best option for you if you want a finish that dries rapidly and has little odour or toxicity. Oil-based polyurethane can be the preferable choice if you require a finish that accentuates the inherent beauty of wood while providing enhanced durability and protection.
Oil Finishes
They're a tried and true method of hardwood floor sealing and they're typically much cheaper than water-based polyurethane.
Bona Mega. A water based floor finish with an oxygen-crosslinking polyurethane formula.
Polyurethane wood finishes are synthetic coatings that are highly durable and water resistant, making them the best clear coat for wood protection.
Minwax® Polycrylic™ Protective Finish
Protect interior wood projects like woodwork, furniture and more, and add natural beauty with Minwax Polycrylic Protective Finish. The crystal clear top coat dries and stays clear, and protects against scratches, scuffs and blemishes to protect the wood surface beneath.
Shellac – Shellac is a varnish made from the resin of the lac bug. It is a softer finish that is often recommended for lighter-colored woods. It is also better for areas with high moisture and frequent wear, as it dries much faster than polyurethane.
Many woodworkers choose polyurethane as a go-to finish simply for its familiarity. Easy to apply, it looks good on a variety of woods and provides plenty of protection.
Applying a clear finish to wood brings out the wood's natural beauty, while sealing and protecting the wood's surface. Oil-based polyurethane is an excellent product to use for this purpose. Start by sanding the surface thoroughly and wiping it down to remove any dust.
Sealers do not provide any coloration of the wood, but they protect it against moisture that causes rot and splitting. Most sealers last one cycle of seasons and should be renewed each year.
Water-based polyurethane finish is the best polyurethane for hardwood floors, and many consider it the future of polyurethanes. High-level water-based polyurethane is as durable as oil, easier to apply, and better for you, your family, your pets, and the environment.
Use a Roller on Large, Flat Surfaces
rollers lets you apply the poly fast and evenly. No brushstrokes, puddles or thin spots.
Sand Between Coats
Make sure to sand the polyurethane between coats. Sanding removes drips, bubbles and other uneven spots in each coat.