Timber Floor Finishes

Oil based Alkyds

Composite

Solvent based

Water based

Tung
oil

Linseed
oil based
varnishes

Oil modified
Urethanes
(OMU)

Urethane
oil/alkyd
‘Tung oil’

2 pack
Polyurethane

Single pack
Polyurethane
(moisture cured)

Polyurethane/
Acrylic

Polyurethane
(Single and two
pack)

Less wear resistant finish requiring more frequent maintenance
Unlikely to edge bond boards #

High wear resistant finish May edge bond boards#. There is a
reduced risk of edge bonding when applied over an appropriate sealer.

Moderate to high wear resistant
finishes
Unlikely to edge bond boards # when
applied over an appropriate sealer

6-24 hour drying by solvent evaporation
Some tolerance to waxes
Moderate to strong odour on application
Avoid inhalation and contact

1-4 hour drying by chemical reaction
Not tolerant to waxes
Strong odour on application
Avoid inhalation and contact

2-4 hour drying by evaporation and reaction
Not tolerant to waxes
Minimal odour on application
Avoid inhaling cross-linkers and
hardeners

Matt to gloss levels
Darkens with age

Matt to very high gloss levels
Darkens with age

Matt to gloss levels
Less darkening with age

Generally ready for use 2-5 days from completion*

Generally ready for use 2-3 days from
completion*

Generally ready for use 2 days from
completion*

*Varies with weather conditions and product. Full curing may take a longer time.
# Edge bonding relates to the finish acting as an adhesive and bonding board edges together.
When board shrinkage occurs, this can result in wide irregularly spaced gaps at board edges or splitting of boards.