Guide to Floor Finishes

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Kinds of Floor Finishes include the following:

Polyurethane floor finish

• A polyurethane floor finish, specifically oil modified polyurethane, is the most common surface finish.
• Polyurethane is a type of plastic that tends to amber slightly as it ages.
• It can give a high gloss or matte finish.

• A Swedish floor finish is an acid curing urethane.
• It is more durable and harder than polyurethane.
• It is a fast-drying clear finish.
• It resists yellowing.

• A moisture-cure urethane floor finish is the hardest among all types.
• It gives floors a glossy sheen.

• A water-based floor finish is a blend of urethanes and acrylics.
• Its vehicular component is water.
• It is durable, fast drying, and moisture-resistant.
• It resists yellowing.

• Lacquer-based floor finish is a synthetic sealer made of cellulose derivatives
• It is the traditional floor finish.
• It dries quickly.
• However, it is not resistant to spills or moisture.
• It is also flammable.

• A polymer floor finish is an acrylic or irradiated polymer.
• It is primarily used for commercial applications.
• It requires professional application.
• It has specific maintenance procedures that should be obtained from the manufacturer.

Color:  Choose a floor finish with a nonyellowing formula that allows your floor to retain its color in the long term.  

Finish: Do not get a floor finish that produces a matte surface, as it makes scratches more visible.

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