Artistic Timber Floors endorse the use of water based finishes as an eco alternative to solvent polyurethane as they result in a much more professional looking floor. Water based non-toxic timber floor finishes not only bring out the natural beauty of timber floors but will maintain the natural colour longer due to the non-yellowing properties. It also has the added benefit of being easily repairable if the floor is subject to severe damage such as flooding, scratching caused by furniture removal.
Floor sanding and finishing involves spending that little extra time to ensure your finished floor will turn heads. We do this using various type of machines for each stage of the process. Our machines are of the latest technology, dust free sanding is what we do. We have a vacuum connected directly to all of our machines, Do other contractors ? I don’t think so…. We go that extra step on every floor to maintain our high standards. The recommended 3 coats of finish is applied in all cases.
We’re frequently asked by home owners what the difference is between solvent based and water based finishes; which one lasts longer ? Which one is safer for my family ? How will they look ?
The main difference between the two types for home owners is; the dry time of the finish. Solvent based finishes take much longer to dry than water based finishes.
Dry times can be the difference between you moving out for a few days and having to move out completely for a week or two.
Additionally, there are a few other key difference between the two types of finish. See the below quick reference table to get a better understanding.
| Water Based | Solvent Based | |
| 1 | Finishes are low odour | Finishes have considerable odour, which can take up to 7 days to dissipate in the home |
| 2 | Maintains the natural colour of the timber | Enhances or warms the colour of the timber |
| 3 | Will not yellow over time | Will yellow over time |
| 4 | Available in Matt, Satin & Gloss Finishes | Available in Matt, Satin & Gloss Finishes. Solvent based Gloss finishes can be extremely glossy when compared to water based |
| 5 | Highly durable | Durable |
There are significant positives to selecting water based for both your timber floors, and your family. When engaging us, it’s important to make sure you fully understand the options available to you, to ensure you and your family are happy with your refinished floors.
