Choosing a finish for your hardwood floor
Water-based, oil-based or hardwax oil. The finish decides the colour, the sheen, the smell and how long you're off the floor.
| Water-based poly | Oil-based poly | Hardwax oil | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colour | Stays close to the natural wood | Warm amber, deepens over time | Natural, low sheen |
| Smell | Low | Strong for several days | Low to moderate |
| Time between coats | A few hours | Overnight | Usually one or two coats |
| Durability | Very good with a commercial-grade product | Very good | Good, easy to spot repair |
| Upkeep | Recoat every several years | Recoat every several years | Re-oil high-traffic areas periodically |
Which to choose
Water-based is the default for most homes now. It keeps light floors light, doesn't yellow much over time, and you're back on the floor faster. It's the right choice if you're going for a natural or modern look.
Oil-based suits people who want a traditional warm glow, especially on red oak. Expect to be out of the house or at least off that floor for longer, and expect it to amber over the years.
Hardwax oil soaks into the wood rather than sitting on top. It gives a matte, natural look, and scratches can be touched up in one spot without redoing the room. It needs more regular upkeep.
Sheen
Matte and satin hide scratches and dust best, which is why they're the most popular. Gloss looks dramatic but shows every mark.
Other work we do
Sanding and refinishing
Full sand to bare wood, then three coats of finish.
Screen and recoat
A fresh coat of finish on floors that are dull but not damaged.
Stair refinishing
Treads sanded and finished, risers painted, carpet removed.
Stain colour changes
Going lighter, darker or natural, with samples on your floor.
Dust-contained sanding
Sanders hooked to high-capacity vacuums that capture most of the dust.
Board repair
Replacing pet-stained, water-damaged or broken boards.
Engineered hardwood
Checking the wear layer first, then recoat or light sand.
Get a price for your floor
Tell us the rooms and square footage. A refinisher gets back to you within one business day with a price, and can book a visit to confirm it.