Which Floor Finish ?

Polyurethane vs Waterbase

Solventbase Polyurethane - a single pack moisture cure clear polyurethane coating which provides an extremely tough, scratch and chemical resistant finish for existing timber cork and parquetry flooring available in gloss, satin or matt finishes. Unfortunately solventbase polyurethane coatings have two main disadvantages, firstly the strong smell which lingers for a few days after the job is complete, this is why we recommend vacating the house during the work as the fumes may cause headaches and nausea. Secondly solventbased polyurethane's discolour as they age especially in direct sunlight, turning a yellowish colour causing loss of board colour and distinction.

Old discoloured polyurethane coating		New polyurethane coating

Waterbased or Acrylic Polyurethane - single pack or two pack non-toxic environmentally friendly coatings which provide the same extremely tough and scratch resistant finish as solventbased polyurethanes but without the strong smell and discolouration. Waterbased comes in Gloss,Satin or Matt Finishes and there is no need to leave the house as long as you don't need to access the areas being coated. The draw backs for Waterbase is that it is slightly more expensive than it's solvent based cousin,

BUT WHAT PRICE DO YOU PUT ON YOUR HEALTH? it also does not bring out the colour of the boards as deeply as solvent based coatings but gives your timber a natural look. Also a commerical grade Waterbase coating is available for extremely high traffic areas such as hotels and night clubs.

New Satin Waterbase		Old discouloured coating