First you have to determine what type of finish you have. For this article we will discuss the most common types of finishing. Here are some easy techniques to help you determine which one you have.
surface finishes
Surface finishes are very popular today because they are durable, waterproof, and require minimal maintenance. The surface finishes are mixtures of synthetic resins. These finishes, often referred to as urethanes or polyurethanes, remain on the surface of the wood and form a protective layer. They are generally available in high gloss, semi-gloss, satin and matte. Surface finishes are more appropriate for rooms like the kitchen and bathrooms.
Varnish/shellac finishes
If the floor was installed or last serviced before the mid-1960s, you should assume that the finish used was varnish or shellac. To determine this, scratch the surface with a corner or other sharp object in a corner or other inconspicuous space. If the finish is chipping, it’s probably shellac or varnish. Shellac and varnish are rarely used and require thorough sanding to remove before applying a surface finish or wax finish.
wax finish
To check if your floor has a wax finish, go to an inconspicuous area, either a corner or behind a door, then apply two drops of water. If white spots appear under water drops within ten minutes, the floor has a wax finish. To remove white spots, gently rub the spots with #000 steel wool moistened with wax. If the finish does not flake when scratched with a corner and no white spots appear from water droplets, the floor has a surface finish and should be maintained accordingly.
Now let’s take a look at some of the less heard finishes and their features.
Swedish finish or acid cure urethane
Both have a clear, quick-drying finish. They are durable and do not yellow. These finishes have an extremely strong odor and should only be applied by a highly qualified wood flooring professional.
Aluminum oxide finishes
The newest in hardwood floor finishes, aluminum oxide offers a more durable coating than previous hardwood floor finishes. Aluminum oxide finishes carry a 20-year limited warranty and are the latest trend from leading manufacturers of prefinished hardwood floors.
Wax finishes and penetrating stains
Penetrating wax and stain finishes penetrate the pores of the wood and harden to form a penetrating protective seal. The wax gives a low-gloss satin shine that wears off on its own as the wood wears. It will not chip or scratch and is usually maintained with additional thin applications of wax. Wax finishes are generally applied more frequently than surface finishes. Only solvent-based (never water-based) waxes, polishing pastes, or cleaning fluids made specifically for hardwood floors should be used.
Modified Urethane Finishes
Modified urethane finishes are generally the most common surface finishes and are easy to apply. It is a solvent-based polyurethane that dries in about eight hours. This type of finish turns amber with age.
Waterborne Urethane Finishes
Waterborne urethane is a waterborne urethane that dries by evaporation of water. These finishes are transparent and do not yellow. They have a milder scent than oil-modified finishes and dry in about two to three hours. Water based urethanes are generally more expensive.
wax finishes
Wax Finishes is the oldest and, in a way, the best. Wax is the easiest to apply, the least expensive, the fastest drying, the easiest to repair, and with proper care, will survive forever. Wax over a penetrating stain and the system will be in the wood, so it will wear down the wood, not the finish. Proper care involves maintenance with colored waxes. Water will stain the waxed surface and must be removed (or prevented). Polishing is required.
custom finishes
“Custom” by definition means made to individual specifications. Custom refinishing of hardwood floors is done in the home on newly installed flooring or to refinish a previously finished floor. The custom finish allows the decorator and homeowner to select from a full range of colors and styles.
So now that you know what sets them apart, how to test to see what you can have, and the best methods for maintaining the finish, it’s time to make and maintain your hardwood floors glorious.
Here are some other finishes, paints, stains, and tints that may be of interest to you that are not covered in this article:
or acid cure
o Gym Finishes
o High solids urethane
o Membership Promoters
or Penetrating Oil
or Urethane-Moisture Cured
o Varnish conversion
sealant
o Modified with urethane oil
o Curable Sealers-Finishes
o Anti-stain oil base
o Urethane-UV-Cured
o Finishing strippers
o Stay in the water based on
o Urethane-Latex-Water Based
o Game Line Paintings
or Dyes
