Hardwax Oil vs. Urethane Finishes

In the early to mid 1980's,  a new type of urethane finish entered the market; water-base urethane was the new craze. With the entrance of water-base into the market-place, contractors quickly began to realize its value. The new water-base finishes added extra durability, dried much faster than its counterpart, and reduced the amount of labor hours. Prior to urethane finishes, hardwood floors were often sealed with multiple layers of shellac (lacquer was also popular); contractors would apply a coat of hot wax, which acted as a protective barrier. Finally, contractors would then polish the floor; finishing it up. Now, almost after a half of a century, the new craze is here; "Hardwax Oil".  Made from waxes and oils, such as carnauba and parrafin wax, and natural oils, such as sunflower and linseed. Hardwax Oil is quickly gaining favor in the hardwood finish industry. So, the question is, which is better. Urethane or Hardwax Oil? The following material will compare the two different finishes in an attempt to answer this question. 

Oil-based Urethane Finish:

       Pros:     

• Gives the hardwood flooring a rich amber like appearance; oftentimes creating a natural glow, which gives the floor a lot of depth. 
• More durable than its predecessors, such as shellac and lacquer.
• Oil-base is more user friendly and is much easier to apply. Flooring contractors prefer this type of finish for this very reason.
• Its less expensive than water-base  

       Cons:

•  Not as durable as a water-base urethane.
•  Drying times generally range from 48-72 hours; depending, on the humidity and other  environmental factors. 
• Toxicity and smell caused by Volatile Organic Compounds. The "oil smell" will take a little time to dissipate. 
• The entire floor must be refinished Creates a "plastic type" coating, which can trap in excessive moisture; finish blistering, and other related issues will sometimes occur. 

Water-Based Urethane Finish:

      Pros:

•  Dries much faster than its counterpart; oil-based urethane.
•  Increase durability and abrasion resistance. Floors need to be refinished less often; depending on circumstances. 
•  Most factory pre-finished floors feature water-based finishes, which include aluminum oxide particles. The aluminum oxide particles act as a hardener within the finish, which minimizes wear-through. It is generally accepted by many in the industry, as some of the best technology available.
• Similar to Oil-base, water-base creates a plastic, or "fake" appearance; depending on the product used to finish the floor.

     Cons:  

• Entire floor must be refinished. The refinishing process is often more difficult because of its added durability.
• Much more difficult to apply than oil-based urethanes. Water-base is not as forgiving as oil; improper "lap-marks" may appear if administered incorrectly.
• Scratch marks are often more noticeable; oftentimes, white lines will appear, which can be difficult to repair.
• Water-base is generally more expensive than oil-base. 

Hardwax Oil: 

      Pros:

• Floors can be spot repaired and do not need to be entirely refinished. Oiled floors are much easier to repair. A light sanding of the affected area, along with a topical coat of oil, and the floor is fixed in a snap.
• The open cell structure of the wood, in combination with the finish, allows the floor to breathe; thus releasing moisture, which creates a healthier environment. 
• Hardwax Floors are more stable, and are less susceptible to moisture-related issues. 
• The waxes and oils are deeply penetrated into the wood; acting as a protective barrier, which provides additional stain and moisture resistance.
• Hardwax Oil extends the life of the wood floor; moreover, the product will look nice longer
• Hardwax Oil is moderately priced, and prices have been going down. 
• Increased versatility and function. Products such as Rubio Monocoat utilize a one-step process, which eliminate the need for staining and sealing.
• Floors are easily maintained with the use of approved cleaners.
• Is appropriate in commercial settings and residential settings, such as restaurants, and other high traffic areas. 
• Creates a warm natural appearance, which enhances the natural character of the hardwood.
• Ease of application. The actual finishing process is much easier and faster than traditional urethane finishes.   

Cons: 

• Floors require an annual coat of maintenance oil. However, it does not take a trained professional  to apply.
• There are not many entry level options for this type of product in the market yet; however, prices are coming down on pre-finished Hardwax Oil floors. 
• A change in sheen level will occur when applying a coat of maintenance oil; although, within a matter of days, the floor will turn back to its original gloss level.  

Based on the information above, it looks like Hardwax Oil hardwood floors are here to stay. After comparing the types of finishes available, it is apparent that Hardwax Oil floors are more versatile, easier to repair, and less susceptible to moisture related issues; moreover, when properly maintained, Hardwax Oil floors will last longer and will reduce the likelihood of costly repairs, because of moisture related issues and adverse environmental conditions. Keep this in mind next time you are in the market for hardwood flooring, it just might help.

Best Regards,

The Floor Man.