Polyurethane Floor Sanding and Polishing
One of the more popular finishes for hard timber floors is polyurethane. This is a clear coating that is moderately hard. If preserves the look of the timber both in the sense that it does not significantly change the colour (depending on type and conditions), and it preserves the floor in the sense that it provides protection against stains and lighter scratches.
There are two general types of polyurethane coating, oil based, and water based. These do have some differences, though they provide similar end results.
Advantages of Polyurethane
• Good waterproofing qualities, which helps protect the floor from stains.
• Does not change the colour of the timber under normal conditions.
• It has a pleasing glossy look, or a more satin look if preferred.
• Is slightly elastic rather than glassy hard.
• Protects against scratching.
• Fine for cold temperatures and moderately hot conditions.
• If a good base for anti-slip surfaces.
• Reasonably quick cure time, at least for water-based types.
Disadvantages of Polyurethane
• Curing time is affected by humidity.
• It is moderate heavy duty, not super heavy duty. Fine for homes, not industrial wear and tear.
• Some varieties will be discoloured by Ultraviolet light.
Oil based vs Water based Polyurethane
• Oil based types will have a higher sheen level. So, oil based will tend to be glossy, water based tend to be satin.
• Oil based will have a slight yellow/amber tint. Some people like this warm effect. Water based is usually clear, though some varieties add a subtle yellow/amber dye for warmth.
• Oil based will tend to slight yellow with exposure to sunlight (Ultraviolet light. This problem can be removed with UV glass on windows or heavy curtains.
• Oil based polyurethane will take longer to dry. You need to wait 24 hours before recoating. But two coats are usually sufficient. Water based polyurethane dries quickly. You can apply several coats on the same day. But the floor will need about five coats of water-based polyurethane.
• Oil based polyurethane tends to be less expensive.
• Oil based takes 30 days to fully harden. Water based takes 7 to 14 days.
Floor Sanding and Polishing
Re-sanding will remove the polyurethane from the surface of the timber floor. This will mean the timber surface will need to be refinished, but the results will look like a new floor.
Polishing a polyurethane floor will make the floor shiny. If the floor is in reasonable condition the polishing can yield good results.
Floor Sanding and Polishing
Sanding and polishing can restore a worn or damaged timber floor. Have your timber floors look new again.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is provided for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. No individual should take, or refrain from taking, any action solely based on the material contained in this article. While we aim to offer accurate and timely information, we cannot guarantee its accuracy on the date of receipt or in the future. If you require more information or seek relevant legal advice specific to your circumstances, please contact our office.