Discover why wood floor oil finish is becoming the preferred style for hardwood floors.
Move over, polyurethanes. Oil-based finishes are breaking tradition with hardwood flooring poly finishes. In the world of wood floor finishes, the choice between oil and polyurethane can make a significant difference in the overall look and maintenance of your floors.
Let's delve into the unique advantages of wood floor oil finishes over traditional polyurethane coatings. From a more natural appearance to easier upkeep, discover why oil may be the perfect type of finish for elevating the aesthetic and functionality of your hardwood floors.
Why I Love My Oiled Floors
The oiled floors in my home have a raw and textured look to them that I love. The natural look helps to hide dirt really well too so if I miss a day or two of regular cleaning. And with an oiled floor, the top coat doesn't scratch. This is super helpful with pets and kids running all over my floors.
But the downsides? These floors can splinter which is not always ideal. You have to oil them every 4 years or so to keep them in good condition. And because these floors are sealed with a wax, it is possible for them to stain if something has spilled and been left for awhile.
Polyurethane floors don't splinter or stain. Plus, they have a more uniform smooth finish. However, the top coat can scratch. And when these floors need to be refinished, it is a larger project because they have to be completely sanded down before adding the polyurethane coating.
Wood Floor Oil Finish vs Polyurethane
With all the different finishes out there, it's really important to choose the right finish for your flooring. Let's take a look at two popular choices and discover why oil-finished floors may be the best option.
What is an Oil Finish?
- Oils fortify, seal and penetrate the natural wood surface
- Keeps the natural look and feel of the wood
- Shows more texture
I use quality products like this oil to maintain my floor.
What is a Polyurethane Finish?
- Polyurethanes add a barrier or protective layer over the wood
- Comes in water-based finishes and oil-based
- Smoother finish
- Protects from liquids and surface scratching
Enhanced Natural Beauty
When it comes to enhancing the natural beauty of your hardwood, oil finishes offer a unique advantage over polyurethane coatings. An oil finish highlights the natural grain and color of the wood. So if you love the patterns and textures that come with natural wood, this finish type may be perfect for you. I especially love this look in my kitchen because it balances all of the wood and white tones.
Oil finishes also create a more organic and earthy look. Earthy tones are helpful in lightening up a space. This enhanced natural beauty of the wood can bring warmth and character to any room in your home, setting the stage for a cozy and inviting ambiance.
Easier Maintenance with Wood Floor Oil Finish
Maintenance is a significant factor to consider when choosing between a wood floor oil finish vs polyurethane coating. With wood finish oil, the upkeep for the oiled floor is much easier and less time-consuming compared to polyurethane. Instead of having to completely sand down and refinish the entire floor when minor damage occurs, the application process for oil finishes allow for spot repairs and touch-ups. This means that maintaining is more manageable and cost-effective over time.
Though you may have to touch up a little more often with oil finishes, the ease of maintenance makes wood floor oil finishes a practical choice. It's especially helpful for busy households or high-traffic areas where wear and tear are inevitable.
Ideal for High-Traffic Areas
I love wood floor oil finishes because they are ideal for high-traffic areas like a family room, kitchen area and hallways. This is due to easy maintenance and ability to withstand daily wear and tear. Whether it's spills, scratches, or heavy foot traffic, the convenience of spot repairs and touch-ups makes for greater flexibility for busy lifestyles.
This low-maintenance option allows for a quick and cost-effective solution to maintaining the beauty of your floors over time. Plus, I can easily touch up with oil on my own time, compared to redoing a polyurethane hardwood floor that is more extensive. For those looking for a flooring solution that can handle the demands of a high-traffic area, wood floor oil finishes provide a convenient and durable option that can extend the life of your floor.
Low Sheen for a Subtle Look
A low sheen wood floor oil finish may be the perfect choice for those wanting an understated, elegant look in their living space. The subtle sheen adds a touch of sophistication to your floors, enhancing the natural beauty of the wood without overwhelming the room.
Do you love a matte finish or subtle shine? This low-key finish is ideal for those who prefer a more muted aesthetic or want to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere in their home. Are you aiming for a rustic farmhouse feel or modern minimalist? This natural finish look on the surface of the wood can complement a variety of design styles and preferences.
Benefits of Wood Floor Oil Finish
Wood floor oil finishes offer a range of unique advantages over traditional polyurethane coatings. From enhancing the natural beauty of your hardwood floors to providing easier maintenance and durability in high-traffic areas, oil finish is a versatile choice for any home.
Embrace the beauty of a low sheen, subtle look by choosing oil finish for your flooring. Make the switch and experience the timeless elegance and simplicity of a natural look in your flooring project.
Happy Decorating!
Brooke
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