Urethane Finish vs. Oil Finish for Hardwood Flooring

More and more homeowners are choosing to purchase hardwood flooring because it has become increasingly affordable. Hardwood floors have become so popular that the flooring industry has created several different options to make purchasing and installing beautiful hardwood floors into your home easier than ever before. The two most popular finish options are a water-based urethane finish and an oil finish. There are benefits to each, but ultimately it’s up to you to choose which is right for your home and lifestyle. Let’s discuss in further detail.

Benefits

Urethane Finish

• Choosing hardwood flooring with a urethane finish is great for families. The finish works well with heavy traffic from kids or pets.
• It takes a lot less time to install. Plus, there are no chemical fumes, dust or lengthy drying time. Once it’s installed, you are instantly free to roam around on your new floor.
• This finish makes routine maintenance for your hardwood floor very easy. All you have to do is sweep or use a dust mop once a week. That’s it!

Oil Finish

• This finish gives the wood a more natural and authentic look. It is typically dry and reminiscent of boards from days gone by.
• An oil finish tends to give hardwood flooring an antique or “old world” feel, as if it has been in the home for a long time.
• You can easily touch-up any scratches or dings that might have occurred over time. The natural oil finish gives you the capability to lightly sand down the surface and reapply some of the oil to the affected area.
• The oil is highly stain resistant.

Either of these two hardwood floor finishes would be beautiful in your home. They each have their own unique benefits that will add richness and charm to any room in your house. If you prefer a more uniform, or clean look go with a urethane finish. If you like the more rustic, authentic looking hardwood flooring, choose an oil finish. No matter which type of finish you choose, you will have beautiful hardwood floors that will look great for years to come. Call Tish Flooring at 317-879-TISH to schedule your in-home, no-obligation consultation today!