What Products Are Used When Sanding & Polishing Timber Floors

Modern timber floor finishes are available in all kinds, from gloss, semi-gloss, matte, and satin finishes to unlimited stains.

Typically, timber floor polishing products are not restricted to just one significant product or brand but a variety of different products that are suitable for different flooring types and species based on individual needs.

At Abacus Flooring, we use a wide variety of quality timber floor finishing products and methods that we tailor based on the unique needs of our customers. We carefully choose products that give timber floors a gorgeous makeover and look that lasts for a long time.

1. Clear Finishes

The most common clear finishes for timber floors are available as polyurethanes, oils, and modified oils. Clear finishes are protective coatings applied directly over timber floor after floor sanding. Depending upon the sheen level, type of wood, budget, and maintenance aspects, one of the following clear finishes is used.

Solvent-Based Polyurethanes

Solvent-based polyurethanes for timber floors are popular choices but mostly outdated because of their high levels of odour and VOCs. Available in matte, satin and gloss finishes, solvent-based polyurethanes are durable finishes that enhance the natural look and colour of timber floors.

These finishes can be extremely glossy compared to the other finishes and can yellow timber floors over time. They also take a long time to dry— a single coating takes a minimum of 12 hours to overnight to dry. However, on the brighter side, they only require a few coatings. So many homeowners do not prefer solvent-based polyurethanes unless they are on a tight budget.

Water-Based Polyurethanes

Water-based polyurethanes are the most popular timber floor finishes these days. They are suitable for almost all species and types of timber floors and are available in matte, satin, semi-gloss, and gloss finishes. Unlike solvent-based polyurethanes, water-based are comparatively more durable and have fewer VOCs and odour, making them an ideal timber floor finish. They are also easy to maintain.

The finish helps maintain the original colour of the timber and does not turn the floor yellow over time. Water-based polyurethanes also dry quickly in about 4 hours with light traffic— however, they require more coating than solvent-based polyurethanes.

Natural Oil Finishes

Natural oils are the most expensive and environmentally friendly timber floor finishes that amplify the natural beauty of timber floors to many folds. They penetrate seamlessly into the wooden pores and enhance the beauty of their natural grains and patterns.

These days not many homeowners prefer oil-based because of the high maintenance they require. Unlike polyurethane finishes, natural oils are not very durable since they do not form a protective barrier over timber. Therefore, a coating of wax is often preferred for maximum protection.

Modified Oils

Modified oils are a much more durable option than natural oils. They are perfect for homeowners who prefer an oil-like finish that’s more affordable and easy to maintain. Modified oils can be a combination of different natural oils and varnish, which adds to the extra durability.

2. Stains

Stains are pigments that give timber floors the desired colour. These days many homeowners prefer colours as they offer timber floors a unique look and charm. Dark stains like reds and browns give a classic look. Black stains are also widely popular for the modern and chick look they give. And then there are light stains, which are usually done by whitewashing or liming, which gives timber floors a whitish or creamy look.

Note that stains are not sealants and hence require any of the clear finish to go on top of them after they dry. However, some stains come with polyurethanes integrated, making it a one-step floor polishing solution.

Contact our team if you need our help. Abacus Flooring offers the best floor sanding and polishing services in Sydney.