Choosing between Polyurethane and Varnish for Hardwood Floor Finish

02/16/2021

Applying a finish to hardwood floors is one of the most important parts of a home improvement project. Selection of right finish will not only make your hardwood floor durable, but also create a visual appeal that is appreciated by all. If you leave your hardwood floor poorly protected, the consequences can be extremely annoying. 

When it comes to selection of material for hardwood floor finish, polyurethane and varnish are two options for you to consider. Both these options have their own advantages and disadvantages and your final selection will ultimately depend on several factors.   

Factors to Consider:

While evaluating your options, here are a few things to consider for ensuring the best possible finish. 

• First of all, consider how long you expect the flooring to last before applying another coat. Also, take into account the purpose your floor will be used for. Oil-based polyurethane is recommended for flooring that will be subject to heavy traffic and wear. On the other hand, water-based polyurethane may suffice for a guest bedroom that is rarely used.    
• Don’t forget that some finishes contain more chemical ingredients compared to others, and may be flammable. This factor must be taken into account, if you have children at home or the area of the floor is poorly ventilated. In these cases, water-based polyurethane is always a good choice. 
• Please remember that some of the floor coating options will affect the colour of your floor, while some others will not. 
• If you are looking to have your floor finished all by yourself, water-based polyurethane is probably better because it is easier to use compared to oil-based poly or varnish. 
• Water-based polyurethane is also recommended, in case the floor needs to be used within 48 hours. On the other hand, the application and drying process for varnish may require up to seven days.  
• Finally, cost is certainly a factor to be considered. Oil-based polyurethane is your most affordable option, followed by water-based polyurethane.  Varnish is the most expensive option. 

Polyurethane:

As a hardwood floor finish material, polyurethane is recommended over varnish. Oil-based polyurethane is the best choice for achieving a rich colour without reapplication of coats. However, if you want a more natural appearance, a water-based polyurethane coating is recommended. 

Despite its higher toxicity and odour, oil-based polyurethanes offer better protection against heat and are more durable. Water-based polyurethanes don’t affect the floor colour and dry quickly, but are more expensive. 

Varnish:

Unlike polyurethane, varnish is not really suitable for indoor surfaces like hardwood floorings and is designed typically for outdoor projects. Varnish can efficiently withstand damage caused by ultraviolet light because of its higher ratio of solids. As a result of this protection, varnish can be an excellent choice for exterior furniture and outside decks.

Varnish provides a more tinted colour and requires more coats compared to polyurethane.  Also, the application process is often prone to issues such as bubbling, peeling, and cracking.   

Final Thoughts:

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.  

If you want to find out more about the finish options for your hardwood floor, please contact our experts at Enoak. We offer a wide selection of finishes and styles to suit every taste.