When you feel that the finishing of the floor is out of fashion or you are getting bore of it, refinish your old hardwood floors. The right finishing protects the floors from wear, dirt and moisture by giving it an attractive color and long lasting beauty. Today the most wooden floors are finished with a stain and a top coat. Modern technology has provided a wide selection of wood finishes having their distinct benefits and appearances.
You can either select an oil based finish or polyurethane (water based) finish. If you choose an oil based finish you need to decide whether you want a satin, gloss or semi gloss finish. It’s probably best for you to use satin on a hardwood floor because it helps hide any flaws in the wood and is much pleasing than a bright shine. Applying oil based finish is better for wooden floors as it casts a warming glow. Water based finishing dries quicker and resists to being yellowish.
Types of Finishing:
Penetrating Finishes: These finishes are poured into the holes of the wood and are often applied with wax. These have matte or satin appearance. You can feel wood grains when you touch the surface. These finishes are often called penetrating finishes. The two species, Maple and Cherry do not absorb these finishes as evenly as the other finishes do.
Surface Finishes: These finishes protect the floors by forming a layer of clear plastic on the surface. These finishes are applied on all pre-finished floors and are counted as the most popular choices.
Oil Based Urethane: It's one of the best floor finishes having unique charm. It comes in gloss or semi gloss type. Two or three coats are applied and each coat takes eight hours to dry. It emits fumes so all windows and doors should be left open to provide proper ventilation.
Water Based Urethane: This finish has low odors and takes two or three hours to dry. It is clear like a crystal. Some additives can be mixed with water based finish to make it hard. This finish provides warmth for cold atmosphere.
Moisture Cured Urethane: It's a solvent based polyurethane finish having much durability and moisture resistance in comparison to the other finishes. It's often used for high traffic places like kitchens, offices or stores. It is available in satin or gloss. Its’ application is best if left in the hands of a professional since it gives strong odor.
Paste Wax: It's long lasting and is one of the best finishes. It's very easy in application, least expensive and fastest in drying. Wax is poured into the thin coats for surface protection after the stain or sealer is applied.