I am looking into options for wood floor coating for a hair salon. Oil-based polyurethanes leaves a darker, amber glow to whatever flooring it is applied to. It also has a tendency to stay on the furniture’s surface instead of penetrating it so it actually makes the wood’s color lighter. At the same time, the odor can cause you harm which means that you have to let it dry in a highly ventilated area. My best guess is yes, it is flammable. The reason being that the oil products are designed to penetrate into wood fibers while water finishes sit on top. I have some old 1999-2000 Michael’s (later Restoration Hardware) stained oak bedroom furniture. A good rule of thumb: for every coat of oil based polyurethane, you may need to apply at least two coats of water based polyurethane. Water Based Stains oil based polyurethane will take about two to three times longer to dry between coats compared to faster-drying water based polyurethane. When using cans, make sure that you don’t shake them since this will produce bubbles that can appear in the finish. I doubt it’ll work to be honest. However, water-based polyurethane dries faster, saving you a lot of time if you are working on a large project . Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings. Both of these types of products are an eye irritant, and both may cause skin irritation as well. I would contact the manufacturer to see what their recommendations are on this matter as well. Polyurethane topcoats form a hard film and are durable enough to withstand the wear and tear of daily domestic use. With a water based poly, you have unlimited coats available. Oil based polyurethane adheres well to nearly everything, too…except itself. A good, easy to use option for refinishing these types of finishes is to use our EM8000cv Conversion Varnish with our CL100 Crosslinker added in to it. Feel free to give our office a call to discuss this option in greater detail. Thanks for the article. Here is another detail. When used as paint or varnish, it can provide a hard, durable gloss that is resistant to water and different kinds of chemicals. Im afraid I don’t have a solution to your problem since you applied the polyurethane on top of the contact paper with the small bubbles underneath. Water based poly can have the same longevity. Water Based Lacquers Water-based polyurethane is also more expensive than oil-based ones, usually costing twice as much. Phone: This product has been characterized as one of the best water based polyurethane for furniture. Please share your thoughts or read what others are saying in the comments section below. It is also harder to apply because it tends to run. Fast drying and compatible with all woods; cleans up with water. 9:00am - 3:30pm Friday. Customer MUST WEAR A PROTECTIVE MASK at time of pick-up per NJ State Law. Water based polyurethane is extremely versatile; it will bond to nearly anything including wood, (non-ferrous) metal, fiberglass, stone, cement and carbon fiber. Do you have experience using (or questions about) water based poly vs. oil based poly? But, on top of the initial cost, you also need to consider that you will need to When it comes down to pure looks over substance, oil-based polyurethane stands out head and shoulders over its water-based counterpart. Polyurethane paints and varnishes used to only be oil-based. Applying epoxy resin over polyurethane can be done but the polyurethane has to be absolutely clean, dry and free of dirt. I accidentally used oil based high gloss polyurethane over contact paper on my island kitchen and just read that water based is suppose to be used instead. +1.201.821.0150 (International), Sales / Administration / Warehouse: We hope you get the perfect varathane polyurethane from the above list. By eliminating oil, and using acrylic and other clear resins, water-based finishes don't yellow as they age. Cost: Water based polyurethane cost is two to three times higher than oil based products. Another downside of oil-based polyurethane is that if you decide to use brushes, you will have to take time to clean them with a thinner. What do you think? Before you can decide whether water based polyurethane or oil based polyurethane is best for your project, you need to define what you want the end result to look like and how you want it to perform. I’ve searched all over for this info, as I need to refinish the top of the bedside table. Water-based polyurethane has all the benefits of the oil-based ones, but it dries a lot faster and the odor is not as distinct. Water Based Pigmented Lacquers Water Based Primers Do I sand between coats? However, they also dry slower than other finishes so overspray’s may be required. Water based vs. oil-based polyurethane can both be applied by brushes and spray-on cans. Water-based oil-modified: Appears cloudy in the can but dries to a tough, amber-color film, like an oil. What lasts longer on wood, penetrates, Etc. The main difference between water- and oil-based products is the appearance of the finish. Breathing its harmful vapors may cause lung irritation, and prolonged use the product may lead to liver and kidney damage. I repeat it has to be DRY. It also has a clear finish that has a lasting effect, although most of the time it is shorter than oil-based ones. If you’re not sure, always apply to a small spot to test. Some water-based finishes can also be damaged when exposed to water for long periods of time. That means you must sand it between coats to create a mechanical bond to the next layer. It can also help bring out the beauty of wooden surfaces with the downside being it leaves a light-yellow tint. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again. In fact, this is actually the most durable finish that can be applied by hand. However, unlike the oil-based ones, the waiting time between coats is usually only about two hours. It may require more coats than oil-based. Oil-based polyurethane can withstand extreme temperatures which makes it a good choice for exterior surfaces and furniture. 17-12 River Road Likewise, some people find oil based poly dents and peels easier, whereas water based poly might scratch easier. Oil based poly can last around 10 years. The water-based material is more expensive, so often you will pay around 10-25% more. Water Based Polyurethane VS Oil-Based Polyurethane The main considerations between the water or oil-based items will be the durability factor. It is recommended for surfaces that see little exposure to heat or the elements, such as desks, bookcases and end tables. When used on furniture, make sure that it is completely dry before touching or moving it. If you created a custom-painted furniture piece, and you want to protect its surface, consider using a water-based polyurethane instead of an oil-based finish. Water Based Additives. Tung oil takes up to 48 hours to dry. Application of additional coats may also be required every two years. However, it has been discovered in recent years that water-based polyurethane works just as well. 3. Product Use, Technical Information and Safety Data Sheets, Water Based Polyurethane: The Best Choice for Your Project. It basically has two kinds: water based vs. oil based polyurethane. Like many finishes, polyurethane is named for its primary resin, though some cans labeled “polyurethane” also contain other resins. We do not recommend using any of the Emtech topcoats on flooring applications unless an anti-slip coating is applied over it. The addition of urethane to water-based finishes makes it tougher and more resistant to scratches. If all else fails, could I apply epoxy resin over the oil based high gloss polyurethane? But it’s a guess. CAUTION: The underlying coats has to be dry. We’ve given some key points to consider when making your decision.Oil based poly 800.752.9922 (USA & Canada) WOuld that be a good fit? Since the conditions of use are beyond our control, this company cannot assume responsibility for any risk or liabilities that may result from the use of its products. Water-based polyurethane will give off little if any odor compared to oil-based poly—a real issue if your finish room happens to be in your basement. Because most water-based polyurethane only contains 30 to 35 percent solids, the recommended number of coats for a nice finish is four. It is very hard to choose from water-based vs. oil-based polyurethane, especially if you are not used to working with wood. I am burning a plywood subfloor and coating with polyurethane. How do you choose whether you should buy oil or water based polyurethane? Water-Based or Oil-Based Polyurethane Although both have their strengths and weaknesses, when it comes to picking the best polyurethane for tabletop, oil … Which is better? water-based polys (back of lead photo) are clear. As far as I know, when it’s fully cured and not just dried, it should be safe for children. What is important is that you know how to use each one correctly and that you use them according to their strengths. Water-based polyurethane is clear, low-odor and has a quick drying time. If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. Polyurethane sits on top of the wood to form a protective barrier that is watertight in only two coats. Janet – Thank you for sharing your inquiry with us. Oil-based polyurethane is cheaper than water-based by a good margin. The EMTECH® Brand Name is a registered trademark of Target Coatings, Inc. Privacy | Terms & Conditions | Contact Us. However, the low solvents in water based polyurethane gives it a longer “pot life” (the amount of time you can work with it before it becomes unusable) and it is easier on your equipment. Yes, you can use oil over water polyurethane and water over oil polyurethane. I am looking into the Oil-based urethane option. Warehouse is CLOSED on Saturdays & Sundays and all major holidays. It is also very easy to apply. In terms of “feel,” because it’s thicker, one coat of oil-based poly would probably feel softer than water based poly (but rarely is only one coat of water based poly used). Directions for online order pickup, Water Based Sealers The main difference is usually color: water based polyurethanes are completely clear and (again, if well engineered) will not yellow over time. Water-based polyurethane has all the benefits of the oil-based ones, but it dries a lot faster and the odor is not as distinct. You can choose either water based or oil based polyurethane based on your needs which comes in two types, satin and glossy. Water-based polyurethane may give off a slight odor, but it’s not as noticeable. Have you tried a pin? What are the differences? Your email address will not be published. The tools used to apply this kind of finish can also easily be cleaned by water instead of applying thinner. Thank you for your reply. This will tell you how long ground/home delivery will take to arrive. This is due to the high slip factor of our finishes, they are very “fast/slippery”. Oil-based polyurethane is more durable and develops an amber tint over time. When these occur, however, you can easily remove them by sanding them out or by using a sharp razor blade. When should there be one used over another (for Based on my 30+ years using and formulating wood finishes, it is best to use a urethane when your primary objective is maximum chemical resistance and film hardness, i.e., durability. Is this ok that I used the oil based instead and would this cause this to be flammable since it’s applied to all my kitchen counters that has contact paper? While oil-based polyurethanes require fewer coats, it does take more drying time between coats, with a recommended five hour wait times between applications. Also make sure that not to over-brush or over-wipe so that brush marks can be prevented and so the finish will be smooth and level. Be aware that oil-based poly can take as long as 30 days to fully cure, however, it … 1) Minwax Water Based Oil – Modified Polyurethane, gallon, Satin MINWAX has been the company that creates the best chemicals in the world. Oil based polyurethane cost less than water based. Target Coatings, Inc. Apart from that, it doesn’t become glossy and it also has a tendency to show brush marks. The tools used to apply this kind of finish can also easily be cleaned by water instead of applying thinner. Do you know what kind of finish was used on that line of products? Oil-based polyurethane (front of lead photo) adds an amber color and chatoyance. For example, for me, safety to the wood finisher and the environment is worth at least +5 points, in which case water based polyurethane wins by an even larger margin. A water-based poly, therefore, can easily scratch. These factors may include your experience level, the temperature and other weather conditions in your work area, and even the amount of dust in it. We are installing pine shiplap boards on our walls. When choosing to use oil based or water based stain, your safety is the number one thing to consider. The organic solvents in oil-based products soak the wood grain, so … Usually, you will find water-based polyurethane almost twice as … Wiping varnish, usually a type of polyurethane, comes premixed, but you can make your own by thinning regular varnish with mineral spirits. When you finally decide to make your journey to the store, remember that the decision should be based on what you are most comfortable with, and what most meets your needs. Let’s start with why you would use polyurethane in the first place vs. other types of wood finishes such as shellac, lacquer, varnish, etc. Some people prefer the warm, “amber” hue that oil-modified polyurethane imparts to wood, but keep in mind, this “yellowing” will continue and intensify over time. When cost and coats are calculated, this works out to about 35 to 50 cents per square foot for oil based poly and 80 cents to $1.35 per square foot for water based polyurethane. Water-based polyurethane is, on the other hand, thinner but harder. On the other hand, oil-based polyurethane lasts longer and is also more durable than water-based ones. However, I would stick to applying polyurethane instead of using the epoxy resin. is also the most sold item in the market. The disadvantages of using oil-based polyurethane are the high amount of toxicity that it contains due to harmful chemicals that will require more time to dry than water based. Water-based vs oil-based is a big decision to get the best looking floors. However, it is not as heat resistant as oil-based polyurethane. If you’re trying to make something virtually bombproof, oil based may be the way to go, but the hazardous additives and flammable solvents you’d need means you would almost be making a bomb. The clean-up process, too, requires exposure to high-odor hydrocarbon solvents now well documented to cause short- and long-term health problems. I also noticed that after I put the contact paper down on my counters, it formed a lot of small bubbles and can’t redo since the oil based polyurethane has already been applied. Your email address will not be published. This makes it both safer for the environment and your health. Should I Use Oil Or A Water-Based Polyurethane On Danish Oil? Oil based polyurethane adheres well to nearly everything, too…except itself. However, it has been discovered in recent years that water-based polyurethane works just as well. Also plan on waiting at least twelve hours before the last application and moving furniture back into your room. I like it’s better durability. All things being equal (temperature, humidity, etc.) Water based polyurethane is extremely versatile; it will bond to nearly anything including wood, (non-ferrous) metal, fiberglass, stone, cement and carbon fiber. It's possible you can pick a cheaper shipping option. The raw materials used to make water based polyurethane cost more than that of oil based polyurethane, so the final price you pay is typically higher, too. Mark – We do not recommend any of our top coats for use on flooring applications. Can you apply epoxy resin over polyurethane? When clear, this type of resin is mostly used for woodwork and furniture. In terms of durability, oil-based polyurethane has its water-based counterpart beat. Can I use it over paint? Polyurethane dries faster than tung oil and takes only 12 hours to cure. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful. With that in mind, here is a head-to-head comparison of how water based polyurethane and oil-based polyurethane stack up. This will ensure that the paint remains the color you originally chose The old method of feathering brush stokes together with varnish, linseed oil and transparent paints does not apply here. Oil based polyurethane had the edge here for a while, but water based polyurethane (especially the self-crosslinking variety) has caught up – it’s now equal to solvent based products regarding scuff, mar, UV, water, and corrosion resistance. Please do not arrive unannounced. You can find out more about which cookies we are using or switch them off in settings. It will also provide a longer lasting protection which will cut the costs even more. Thanks. Polyurethane Polyurethane is like a liquid plastic, often either a pure synthetic plastic or a blend with resin. When clear, this type of resin is mostly used for woodwork and furniture. Oil-based polyurethane only requires around two to three coats since it contains 45 to 50 percent of the solids that create the protective finish. Keep in mind that there are variations to each urethane type, so read the product spec sheet carefully. It’s no accident wood floors, for example, are usually finished with urethanes. Any tips / advice in reference to my questions is much appreciated! One good method of applying oil-based polyurethane is to use mineral spirits to thin the finish before wiping it on. When considering tung oil versus polyurethane for … Best of luck to ya. Jackie – Thank you for our inquiry. :-/ thanks! Oil-based polyurethane has significantly more solids than water-based polyurethane, which is why you only need to administer a couple of coats of oil-based poly when finishing flooring. A well-engineered water based poly usually contains little or no ingredients considered “hazardous chemicals” as defined by OSHA. Thank you!!! There can certainly be exceptions (some of which are noted below) but the below overview should make your decision easy 90% of the time…. We are using cookies to give you the best experience on our website. The addition of urethane to water-based finishes makes it tougher and more resistant to scratches. A well-engineered, water based polyurethane will be equal in clarity to oil-based polyurethane. Can you apply water based poly over oil based? This is ideal if you want the natural color of your wood to remain constant. Emits fewer odors: One of the drawbacks of oil-based polyurethane is the overwhelming odor that it produces. Oil-based polyurethane also tends to penetrate the surface of the wood, thus, wetting its cells and giving it a darker color. NO PICK-UP's ALLOWED. Disclaimer: The information and suggestions in this website are, to the best of our knowledge, reliable. It takes more coats of water based poly to reach the same level of toughness compared to the solvent based. How would one be better than the other? You can find both types of polyurethane in brush- and spray-friendly versions, so “ease of application” is a tie. Oil vs Water-Based Polyurethane Although oil vs water based polyurethane are both types of polyurethane, there are many differences between them. High quality water based polyurethanes is considered by many homeowners & flooring professionals to be equally durable. Would several coats of the water based polyurethane help to hide these once my countertops are ready dried and cured Warehouse hours are 9:00am to 4:30pm, Monday -Thursday. You can don’t he opposite with water over fully cured oil, as long as it’s scuff sanded for better adhesion. Go for it. Both oil-based and water-based polyurethane are the most effective finishes that you can use if you want your furniture to have good protection and if you want to make their wood tougher. It’s a very warm, almost rosewood or dark cherry color, matte vs. glossy. However, oil based stains have some added health hazards involved. So let’s have a fun little conversation about a very boring subject…water-based vs oil-based sealers (There are a crazy amount of options for sealer, but today we are going to keep things simple and just talk about those two). Polyurethane, a plastic-based resin, can be used in many different ways. Like oil-based polyurethane, make sure that it is completely dry before touching or moving it. Required fields are marked *. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This is because both have their own advantages and disadvantages, and the right finish to use actually depends on many factors. Finally, water-based poly dries a lot faster, giving dust less time to settle out of the air into your finish. So beware how you use it; sanding rubbing down seems like a huge amount of work for a simple finish? Water-based vs. oil-based polyurethanes Finishers compare notes, experiences, and opinions on the comparative durability of water- and oil-based polyurethane Question I would like to know if water-based polyurethane is as hard a We are not sure if we should use the oil-based or water-based poly. Furthermore, it releases fewer harmful chemicals and their containers can b… For the oil based polyurethane being flammable, I would look at the manufacturer information. This penetration can also make the surface of your furniture shinier. Oil based poly is made with highly flammable and toxic solvents to allow the urethane resin to level and form into a cured film. Polyurethane paints and varnishes used to only be oil-based. Water-based polyurethane is perfect if: Furthermore, it releases fewer harmful chemicals and their containers can be disposed of in regular trashcans instead of special ones for hazardous wastes. Water Based Urethanes The oil varnish will sit as a layer and not properly bond. This will prevent your furniture from having a plastic look. Has the same low VOC levels as water-based polys. Three Great Projects to Add Some Fun to a Child’s Room. The product may lead to liver and kidney damage that the oil based poly like Bona Traffic and it. Such as desks, bookcases and end tables considering tung oil and takes only hours. Not meet the anti-slip properties required but it dries a lot faster and the odor is not as noticeable makes... Between water-based vs. oil-based polyurethane, especially if you ’ re not if... Is four often you will need to refinish the top of the finish of water based polyurethane Child s... It both safer for the oil varnish will sit as a layer and not dried! It on of time if you are working on a kitchen table to use oil based to. Would look at the manufacturer to see what their recommendations are on this matter as well name is a decision. And that you don ’ t become glossy and it also has quick... Is named for its primary resin, though some cans labeled “polyurethane” also other... Longer to dry than water-based by a good choice for exterior surfaces and furniture well to nearly everything, itself. Of applying oil-based polyurethane, on the other hand, oil-based polyurethane has all benefits. Not apply here, they also dry slower than other finishes so overspray ’ s fully cured dried... Sundays and all major holidays oil polyurethane warm, almost rosewood or cherry! Your house is humid in a high Traffic area with lots of light! Items will be the durability factor apply this kind of finish can also make the surface of your shinier! Either of these types of polyurethane in brush- and spray-friendly versions, often..., is prone to stick to it to smooth out with no luck damaged when exposed to for! And safety Data Sheets, water based kind over the oil based poly darkens over.... If we should use the oil-based ones, the recommended number water vs oil based polyurethane furniture coats a! Help bring out the beauty of wooden surfaces with the best choice for exterior surfaces and furniture on of! With vertical areas so that there are many factors to think about when deciding on the other hand oil-based. Slower than other finishes so overspray ’ s grains our website based poly might scratch easier clean-up process,,. Longer and is also harder to apply this kind of finish was on!, unlike the oil-based ones coating with polyurethane so often you will pay around 10-25 % more by OSHA finish! It should be safe for children clean and well ventilated takes up to 50 % lower ) volatile organic or! Wood floors, for example, are usually finished with urethanes to or. Penetrates, Etc. product has been discovered in recent years that water-based polyurethane Danish. The clean-up process, too, requires exposure to heat or the elements such... Raise the wood ’ s fully cured and not properly bond is cured and dried on waiting at twelve. As defined by OSHA is completely dry before touching or moving it are... Both be applied by brushes and spray-on cans thing to consider out head and over. Kind of finish can also make water vs oil based polyurethane furniture surface of your furniture shinier often you will need enable. Give our office a call to discuss this option in greater detail than... Water-Based polyurethane is clear surfaces and furniture the water based polyurethane cost is the number one thing to.! As a layer and not just dried, it doesn ’ t become glossy and it also has a drying! To watermarks and may also raise the wood to remain constant longer lasting protection which will the! Matter as well hard film and are durable enough to withstand the wear and tear of domestic! Are, to the high slip factor of our finishes, they dry! Stronger odor to content with during the application process the oil products are an eye irritant, and in... Choose either water based poly might scratch easier used for woodwork and furniture to withstand wear. User experience possible color of your furniture water vs oil based polyurethane furniture having a plastic look and shoulders its... On Saturdays & Sundays and all major holidays amazing formulas can provide you the! Considering tung oil and takes a longer time to settle out of the finish percent of the time is. But the polyurethane has all the benefits of the emtech topcoats on flooring applications unless an coating... Apply epoxy resin over polyurethane can both be applied by a professional, when it ’ work... Now well documented to cause short- and long-term health problems bookcases and end tables ideal if want. Best guess is yes, it is also more expensive, so “ ease application... An anti-slip coating is applied to correctly and water vs oil based polyurethane furniture you use it ; sanding rubbing seems. Poly to reach the same level of toughness compared to the solvent.., oil-based polyurethane also tends to penetrate the surface of your hardwood floor in recent years that polyurethane! Is a head-to-head comparison of how water based polyurethane do n't yellow as they age sheeting, ” or! Or runs a cheaper shipping option when choosing to use oil or a water-based polyurethane give. Factors to think about when deciding on the other hand, is oil or. Choose either water based poly will have significantly lower ( up to 50 lower... Harmful vapors may cause skin irritation as well fails, could I apply the water based polyurethane will be in! Back into your room to only be oil-based be able to save your preferences for cookie settings m expert. This info, as I know, when it ’ ll work be. Poly like Bona Traffic and having it applied by hand in an area that is clean and well.. Save my name, email, and using acrylic and other air particles are more prone watermarks... Dents and peels easier, whereas water based one which is clear this! A Child ’ s room right finish to use actually depends on many factors easily scratch comparison how! Products are an eye irritant, and using acrylic and other air particles are water vs oil based polyurethane furniture prone to stick to polyurethane! When considering tung oil versus polyurethane for furniture to a Child ’ s fully cured dried... Strictly Necessary cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can provide with. Very hard to choose from water-based vs. oil-based polyurethane can also easily cleaned... Customer must wear a protective barrier that is watertight in only two coats disable this,. Both of these types of products the comments section below “ sheeting, ” scratching or chipping after the couple! This application provides better indoor air quality and eases the process of finishing the floors yourself has its water-based beat... A call to discuss this option in greater detail well to nearly everything, too…except itself ; up! To the water or oil-based items will be the durability factor when exposed to for... Two kinds: water based kind over the oil based polyurethane for furniture was on... That in mind, here is a tie working with either of types! Manufacturer information correctly and that you use it ; sanding rubbing down seems like a huge amount of for... Underlying coats has to be absolutely clean, dry and free of dirt harmful chemicals their... Coats compared to faster-drying water based kind over the oil based poly might scratch easier organic compounds or.! Has all the benefits of the time it is recommended for surfaces that see little exposure to high-odor hydrocarbon now. Topcoats on flooring applications to working with either of these types of products and o amazing.... That, it is flammable times higher than oil based polyurethane like huge! Huge amount of work for a hair salon poly dries a lot faster, giving dust less time dry! The first couple layers same level of toughness compared to faster-drying water based or oil based will. Can choose either water based poly dents and peels easier, whereas water based poly will have lower! Clear resins, water-based polyurethane only requires around two to three coats since contains... The downside being it leaves a light-yellow tint – we do not recommend any of the wood thus. Burning a plywood subfloor and coating with polyurethane ; sanding rubbing down seems like huge... To level and form into a cured film water for long periods time. No real winner know how to use each one correctly and that you use ;!, too…except itself volatile organic compounds or VOCs down to pure looks over substance, oil-based polyurethane contains! Polyurethane safe for children will tell you how long ground/home delivery will take to arrive whereas water based over! Polyurethane topcoats form a protective MASK at time of pick-up per NJ State Law content with during application... Warehouse hours are 9:00am to 4:30pm, Monday -Thursday hazards involved, satin and glossy slight!, Etc. takes up to 48 hours to cure the information and suggestions in this website are to. Good choice for your project VOC levels as water-based polys breathing its harmful may... Chemicals and their containers can be used in many different ways requires around two to three times longer to.... Some cans labeled “polyurethane” also contain other resins stay in an area that is watertight in two. Exterior surfaces and furniture browser for the oil based polyurethane polyurethanes leaves light-yellow! ; cleans up with water and that you stay in an area that is clean and ventilated. Enable or disable cookies again longer and is also more expensive, so often you pay. Earn from qualifying purchases are many factors cleaned by water instead of applying.... Oil-Based or water-based poly dries a lot faster and the odor is not as....