When it comes to having a wood floor, care and maintenance are important to ensure that it does not chip or have water seeping into it. The most popular way of doing this is to apply a finish. There are so many finishes on the market that the only way to ensure it gets finished well is by finding out how they work and if they are suitable for your living space.
An oil-based finished is the most commonly used finish, especially for you, are using it in a commercial building or a sports area. This type of finish requires long drying time between coats, so do not use it if you are in a hurry to apply a finish. It has the advantage of being very durable, and as it ages, it tends to turn into a yellow or amber color. It is not suitable for persons who have an allergy to string smells since it has a strong odor.
For someone who wants a quick job done, you can go for a water-based finish. This finish has a milder odor; therefore, anyone with allergies can use this in their space. Since it is light, you will be required to apply more coats than the oil-based finish. When it comes to comparing the cost, it’s more expensive than the oil-based finish.
There is a moisture-cured polyurethane that cures by absorbing the moisture in the air. This type of finish has a very strong odor that one needs to wear a respirator and ensure that particular room is well ventilated during application. This makes it unsuitable to use if you have allergies to strong smells. It is more water-resistant when compared to the other finishes.
There is a finish that works by penetrating the wood and filling its pores to seal it called a penetrating oil or penetrating sealer. This is a very durable finish and has a mild odor. The seal takes time to penetrate the wood; therefore, drying time is lengthened. It is best used for antique floors.
One of the most durable looks finishes is the acid-cure or Swedish finish. It takes a shorter time to dry but takes close to two months to cure fully. This is recommended if you are not in a hurry to use your space after applying the finish.
Wax was created as it was one of the most commonly used finishes before the invention of the other finishes. It seeps into the wood to make it durable, although, in the long run, it is damaged by water. Because of its vulnerability, it needs regular maintenance. When applied, it tends to darken the wood.
Shellac is usually used together with wax and is applied as a base coat before the wax is applied on top. Most shellac products have issues with compatibility with other finishes; therefore, do a test on a small area before adding the topcoat. Shellac does not require buffing after an application, and it dries very fast. It is vulnerable to damage from water, alcohol, and ammonia. Regular maintenance is therefore required when using it.