Generally Polyurethane is the most durable and economical finish available. Polyurethanes are available in a solvent base or water base. Traditionally solvent based polyurethanes have been widely used however many of the modern high water based coating are equally as durable. The performance of the coatings depends on the sheen levels which range from full gloss to satins to low sheen.
Timber floor finishes can be grouped into four broad categories. These are oil based finishes, composite finishes (mixes of oil-based and solvent borne polyurethane finishes), solvent borne polyurethane finishes and water borne finishes.
Oil based finishes are the traditional types of finish made by reacting a natural oil (e.g. linseed and tung) with another chemical. Varnishes and the traditional tung oils fall within this category and are associated with the polished and waxed timber floors of the past. These types of finishes are still available but require greater regular maintenance than the other finishes. However with the use of acrylic floor polishes, they have become easier to maintain.
Oil based finishes with the addition of urethanes provide a finish with reasonably good abrasion resistance. These finishes provide a subdued, satin to semi-gloss appearance. They darken with time and require more frequent maintenance particularly in high traffic areas than polyurethanes. Acrylic floor polishes can be used to protect the finish.
Solvent borne polyurethanes (one pack and two pack) were developed during the 1950's and 1960's. They provided a harder finish, generally with limited flexibility but much greater abrasion resistance. As a result this greatly reduced the level of routine maintenance. They currently provide some of the hardest finishes available today with gloss levels from matt through to a very high gloss. These finishes will generally darken with time and although hard may scratch if care is not taken. Repairing such damage is sometimes not as easy as with other finishes. The odour after application is also very strong.
Water borne polyurethane/acrylic mixes and straight water borne polyurethanes are gaining in popularity. They are normally applied over a sealer (either solvent or water based) that not only enhances the colour of the timber but also greatly reduces the risk of edge bonding. There are matt through to gloss finishes available and many of these finishes do not darken significantly with time. There is very little odour associated with water borne finishes.
Some movement usually occurs in timber floors after laying and although floor finishes may delay this movement they will not prevent it. In applications where greater movement is expected after finishing (e.g. from seasonal changes, use of wide boards, air-conditioning installed after floor installation), a flexible finish is recommended that will permit boards to move individually.
If flexible finishes are not used, adjacent boards may become glued together by the finish penetrating into the joints. With subsequent shrinkage, wide gaps, between groups of four or five boards may occur or boards could split. A less flexible finish should be used only where minimal movement is expected after installation. This usually applies only to a permanently controlled environment.
The figure below outlines the type of finishes available and various characteristics of each.
Queensland Parquetry and Cork Floors Pty Ltd has been supplying and installing flooring products in and around Brisbane since 1978. We have a proud history of being innovative and providing an exceptional product and service to our customers. We specialise in a wide selection of floor coverings including: cork, parquetry, tongue and groove, floating floors, sanding and finishing.
Queensland Parquetry and Cork Floors Pty Ltd, incorporating Contract Floor Sanding and Comflor Commercial Floor Coverings operate throughout Brisbane and the rest of Queensland. For the widest possible choice in practical flooring solutions, visit our Brisbane showroom or call us today.
