If you’re looking for finishes for commercial wood floors, such as secret nail timber flooring or engineered wood floors, you’ll notice that there are lots of options available. The one that is best for your floors will depend on durability, ease of application, drying time, aesthetics, environmental impact, and longevity.
We run through some of the most popular commercial wood finishes today, creating an easy-to-compare list so you can see their relative strengths and weaknesses. For best results and personal safety, always get your commercial wood floors finished by professionals.
Water-based polyurethane
Durability: very durable
Ease of application: easy
Drying time: quick
Water-based polyurethane is a modern improvement on oil-based polyurethane in that, unlike the latter, it does not yellow with age but provides a clear protective layer that is very durable. Available in high-gloss, semi-gloss, and satin finishes, it is a moisture-resistant substance that is easy to maintain with a broom and damp mop.
The only con is that, of all the commercial wood floor finishes, in its high-gloss form, this one does tend to show every little scratch. So, if your wood floors will be in a high-traffic area, a low-gloss option might be better.
Oil-based polyurethane
Durability: very durable
Ease of application: easy
Drying time: slow
Unlike water-based polyurethane, oil-based ones release many volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can be dangerous if you breathe them in, so any installer will require a respirator.
As oil-based polyurethane is particularly hardwearing, you won’t have to refinish your wood as often as with other commercial wood floor finishes. However, this finish can take on a yellow tinge with time, so it’s best used with warm-toned wood.
Moisture-cure urethane
Durability: extremely durable
Ease of application: difficult
Drying time: slow
The first use of moisture-cure urethane was on bowling alleys, so you can expect an exceptional shine and hard, durable surface. While water-based polyurethane might show every scratch, this surface is immune to marks and moisture.
It’s hard to apply, though, and due to the high level of VOCs being released by this substance, it must be applied professionally, and the space needs to be vacant for two weeks before the fumes clear. The humidity levels in the air affect the drying process of this finish. Perfect for commercial spaces where resistance to wear and moisture are highly prized.
Wax
Durability: not very durable
Ease of application: easy
Drying time: quick
Wax is a low-sheen finish that does not produce odour or VOCs and can easily be touched up with more wax. It was the go-to option for commercial wood floor finishes before the introduction of polyurethanes.
It’s still a popular choice for historic buildings for its natural look. It’s not the most durable of surfaces, and moisture can create white marks, so it’s best avoided in kitchens or bathrooms. It can also cast a yellow sheen over wood over time.
Penetrating oil sealer
Durability: not very durable
Ease of application: easy
Drying time: very slow
Penetrating oil sealer brings out the beauty of the grain in wood floors with a matte finish and is often used in historic buildings, but this finish is not the most popular today.
That is because it has certain drawbacks, such as not being very hardwearing and needing frequent reapplication. Regarding maintenance, water and chemicals can cause damage, so you must invest in a cleaner specifically made for oil-sealed floors.
Acid-cured finish
Durability: extremely durable
Ease of application: hard
Drying time: quick
Of all commercial wood floor finishes, acid-cured finish (aka Swedish finish) beats even the polyurethanes for durability. The shine achieved through this finish avoids damage from chemicals and scratches.
Unfortunately, it’s very high in VOCs, demanding pro-only applications. However, it stands up to wear and tear exceptionally well, especially in commercial spaces, while bringing the beauty of a wood floor to the forefront.
Aluminum oxide
Durability: extremely durable
Ease of application: hard
Drying time: only available on prefinished wood planks
Choose aluminium oxide if you need a finish that exceeds them all in hardiness. Scratches, fading, and water are no match for this finish, which protects like nothing else. You can choose your level of matte or shine, but you will only be able to get this surface on prefinished wood planks.
This finish may not be easy to restore or switch to a different finish, but when it can last up to 25 years, why change it? A good, extremely durable finish that you can set and forget.
Enjoy top wood finishes with Floorcon
At Floorcon, we deeply understand various wood floor finishes so we can recommend the best option for your commercial space. Some can be done in situ, while others come pre-finished from a factory. We can help you choose the right finish according to your criteria. Contact us today to find out more.
