Timber floors have a timeless appeal that adds warmth, durability, and natural aesthetics to Brisbane homes. Understanding the basics of timber floor finishing and polishing is necessary for people planning to get timber floors for their homes.
Budget Floor Sanding Brisbane offers a premium choice of Timber Interior Floor Finishes to suit your preferences. We only use the timber flooring industry’s tried and tested, highest-quality products that always produce beautiful stylish polished timber floors. As the conditions in the interior and exterior of the house are different, the coating materials also differ. This is because verandahs and decks are more exposed to changing atmospheric conditions so; the finishing material applied is impervious and adaptable to harsh environmental conditions.
Let us dive deeply into the guide about timber floor finishes and polishing. The discussion will focus on both interior and exterior applications of floor finishes.
Significance Of Timber Floors in Brisbane
Due to Brisbane’s warm and humid subtropical climate, timber floors are popular among homeowners and businesses. They are easy to maintain, provide a natural cooling effect, and can be customized according to individual preferences. Proper finishes protect the timber from harmful climate conditions. Moisture, UV rays, and daily wear and tear are common factors that influence the floor.
Why Finishing is Important for Timber Floors?
Temperature fluctuations and humidity levels affect the timber. Timber floors are vulnerable to damage from the following without proper finish:
- Sunlight exposure: UV rays from sunlight can fade or discolor timber over time.
- Moisture: The humid weather can cause timber to expand, warp, or discolor if not sealed.
- Mold growth: Unfinished floors provide a favorable habitat for mold growth during rainy seasons.
- Daily wear and tear: Scuffs, dents, scratches, and stains from pets, foot traffic, and furniture can ruin the aesthetic of unfinished floors.
A high-quality timber finish enhances the durability and protection of your floors. Finishing can give a glossy, matte, or satin look and contribute to the floor’s overall appearance.
INTERIOR TIMBER FLOOR FINISHES
Finishes used in the interior house are categorized into four basic classes depending upon their “base” and the finishing effect after their application. Apart from bestowing a glamorous effect on the floor however some drawbacks are associated with each finishing material being used.
Let’s briefly look at each of them so it would be easy for you to decide which coating would be the best fit for your timber floor finishes and polishing!
Living rooms, bedrooms, hallways, and other high-traffic areas make the house interior and require finishes different than the house exterior. A well-applied finish enhances the beauty of timber and protects it, bringing out the grain and natural texture.
Types of Interior Timber Finishes
Depending on the look homeowners want to achieve and the level of protection they need, they have several options for interior floor finish.
Oil-Based Timber Floor Finishes
Oil-based finishes have been the first choice among Brisbane homeowners for many centuries. These are traditional wood floor finishes based on natural oils. Traditional Pure Tung oil is one example. They penetrate deeply into the wood, giving it a rich, warm color by enhancing its natural grain.
These finishes are long-lasting and provide moderate protection. The oil-based timber floor finishes do not wear well and require greater maintenance and your wooden floor will darken with age and possibly yellow in darker areas or where the floor is covered. Edge bonding of the floorboards is unlikely. However, not as durable, oil-based floor finishes do give your wooden floor a beautiful satin appearance.
- Presentation: Oil-based finishes darken the timber, giving it a richer color. They are glossy.
- Strength: They offer moderate protection but may need more frequent reapplication than other finishes.
- Maintenance: The oil-finished floors are easy to spot-finish or repair without refinishing the entire floor.
Common Oil-Based Finishes
- Linseed Oil: It is a traditional finish that brings out the grain. It may require frequent reapplication.
- Tung Oil: This finish is natural, eco-friendly, and provides a subtle, matte sheen. It is extracted from the nuts of the tung tree.
Pros and cons of Oil-Based finishes
Pros:
- Enhanced Grain: Oil finishes penetrate deep and bring out the natural beauty of timber by enriching the wood’s grain.
- Rich Color: They provide a rich, amber hue that becomes more beautiful over time.
- Easy maintenance: Dents, scuffs, and scratches can be repaired by simply spot-applying more oil to the affected area rather than re-sanding the entire floor.
- Natural Appeal: Offers a natural, less plastic-looking finish than modern coatings.
- The oil-based timber floor finishes: provide a warmer effect and high tone in the floor and their coverage is second to none. Oil-based timber floor finishes provides beautiful satin appearance to your Brisbane homes.
Cons:
- Sturdiness and resistance: They are susceptible to scratches and dents and do not offer the same surface protection as polyurethane finishes.
- High-Maintenance: They need periodic application (every 1-2 years in high-traffic areas) to maintain their appearance and protection.
- Slow Drying Time: Oil-based finishes take longer to dry than water-based finishes.
- Darken Over Time: Oil finishes darken the floor over time, which may not be desirable for some homeowners.
- Oil-based finishes do not wear well: Requires greater maintenance and your wooden floor will darken with age and possibly yellow in darker areas or where the floor is covered. Edge bonding of the floorboards is unlikely.
Composite Oil-Based/Solvent-based Interior Floor Finishes
These wooden floor finishes have natural oils combined with urethanes to enhance wear qualities. Interior Floor finishes with a higher urethane content will be more durable than the Pure Tung oil-based finishes mentioned before. These finishes can have gloss levels that vary from high gloss to satin. Water-based versions are available with low VOC emissions but those will cost more.
Solvent-Based Polyurethane Floor Finishes
Solvent-based polyurethane provides the hardest finish of the four timber floor finishing alternatives. They do not have the flexibility of the other floor coatings, but they provide excellent wear qualities. This means that due to their increased durability, little maintenance is necessary. All timber floor gloss levels are available from matt, satin, and very high gloss, and these floor finish options will also darken with age. The odor produced during the dying of the finish is strong but dissipates as the finish dries. Due to its high strength and limited flexibility edge bonding of the wooden floorboards can occur. This hard-wearing timber floor finish is well suited to pet owners as it is the most durable timber floor finishes.
Solvent-based polyurethane has the priority amongst the four types due to the following reasons:
- Provides the hardest finish of the four timber floor finishing alternatives. They provide excellent wear qualities. This means that due to their increased durability, little maintenance is necessary.
- All timber floor gloss levels are available from matt, satin, and very high gloss, and these floor finish options will also darken with age. The odor produced during the dying of the finish is strong but dissipates as the finish dries.
- Due to its high strength and limited flexibility edge bonding of the wooden floorboards can occur.
- This hard-wearing timber floor finish is well suited to pet owners as it is the most durable timber floor finish.
Besides proving to be the most effective floor coating, there are certain drawbacks associated with their use.
- They do not have the flexibility of the other floor coatings.
- They are combustible.
- A longer time is required for re-coating.
- Gives off toxic vapors which last for about five days and have a strong odor that disperses over time.
Water-Based Floor Finishes
One and two-pack eco-friendly water-based polyurethanes are gaining popularity due to their improved durability and better wear qualities for your sanded floors. These timber floor finishes are mostly applied over a sealer coat which helps to enhance the color of the timber floor and also helps reduce the possibility of edge bonding between the tongue and groove flooring. Water-based wood floor finishes come in matt, satin, and gloss, and generally, your floor will darken a little with age, but less than solvent-based timber floor finishes. Water-based interior floor finishes cure faster and produces fewer fumes, so this may be an option if you need to stay in your home while the floor sanding and polishing are being done. If anyone in your home suffers from respiratory issues, water-based finishes are the best option. The biggest advantage of pursuing water-based floor finishes is that you will have almost no exposure to VOCs (volatile organic compounds).
Water-based finishes are popular due to their environmental benefits and quick drying times. They preserve the natural color of the timber without yellowing over time and provide a clear finish. One and two-pack eco-friendly water-based polyurethanes are gaining popularity due to their improved durability and better wear qualities for your sanded floors. These timber floor finishes are mostly applied over a sealer coat which helps to enhance the color of the timber floor and also helps reduce the possibility of edge bonding between the tongue and groove flooring.
- Presentation: These are clear and non-yellowing, which keeps the timber’s natural hue intact. Water-based wood floor finishes come in matt, satin, and gloss, and generally, your floor will darken a little with age, but less than solvent-based timber floor finishes.
- Strength: Water-based finishes resist wear, stains, and moisture effectively.
- Maintenance: They are easy to maintain but may need occasional reapplication for high-traffic areas.
Common Water-Based Finishes:
- Water-Based Polyurethane: Their durable layer protects against scratches and moisture. Low VOCs and quick drying make it an environmentally friendly choice.
- Acrylic Finishes: They impart a smooth, glossy sheen to the timber. Their UV-resistant property makes them a good choice for rooms with large windows.
Pros and cons of water-based polyurethane finishes
Pros:
- Durable: Provides a tough, protective layer that resists scratches, stains, and moisture effectively.
- Non-Yellowing: These finishes are ideal for light-colored woods as they maintain the natural timber color without darkening or yellowing over time.
- Quick Drying Time: Water-based finishes dry more quickly than oil-based finishes, allowing for faster turnaround times during floor renovations.
- Low VOCs make them a healthy option: The low volatile organic compounds (VOCs) make them a safer option for better indoor air quality, especially in homes with children and pets. Water-based interior floor finishes cure faster and produce fewer fumes, so this may be an option if you want to stay in your home while the floors are sanded and polished. A water-based finish is the best option for residents with respiratory issues.
Cons:
- Plastic Appearance: Water-based finishes give a more “plastic” appearance, as they don’t enhance the timber’s grain as much as oil-based finishes.
- Require Periodic Application: Frequent coats of water-based finishes are required rather than oil-based for protection and gloss.
- Less Penetration: Unlike oil-based finishes, water-based options don’t penetrate the wood deeply, which can result in less nourishment for the timber.
Hard Wax Oil Finishes
Hard wax finishes are a combination of oils and waxes. This combination is beneficial in providing a durable, breathable surface. Hard wax is popular for a natural, low-sheen look.
- Presentation: It is a soft, matte finish that brings out the wood’s grain’s natural texture.
- Strength: it provides a moderate level of resistance and protection from certain elements like spills, scratches, and moisture.
- Maintenance: Regular cleaning and periodic reapplication of wax on timber floors is required to maintain its appearance and protection.
Pros And Cons Of Hard Wax Oil Finishes
Pros:
- Natural Appeal: The natural feel of this finish is due to the low-sheen and matte appearance that highlights the natural texture and grain of the timber.
- Easy Maintenance: Easy to clean and maintain as spills and minor scratches can be spot-treated without needing to re-sand or refinish the entire floor.
- Low VOCs: Made from natural ingredients, it is an eco-friendly option with low VOCs.
Cons:
- Less Durable: Hard wax is durable and easy to maintain, yet it is not as tough as polyurethane, making it more susceptible to scratches and dents in high-traffic areas.
- Require Frequent Maintenance: compared to polyurethane finishes, hard wax-coated timber floors require more frequent reapplication.
- Long Drying Time: Multiple coats of hard wax finish may be required and takes longer to fully dry and cure.
Raw Untreated Scandinavian-Looking Timber Floors With Invisible Protect
With the progress of time, new techniques have developed which bring modernity to the timber floor. One of these practices is the use of invisible protect.
What is invisible protect?
Invisible Protect is a new water-based timber floor coating that retains the natural appearance and feel of untreated timber.
What’s new in it?
Its almost invisible layer is extremely scratch-resistant and the wood floor coating has outstanding wear resistance. There is no enhancement of the timber color and the original floorboard color is retained. Invisible Protect also has an Anti-slip rating of R9.
Where can invisible protect be applied?
This floor finishing product is ideal for cork, parquetry, and interior wooden floors. Loba’s Invisible Protect is the latest from Germany’s technology leader in environmentally friendly, waterborne timber floor finishes.
How to Choose the Right Finish for Your Interior Timber Floors?
It’s important to consider several factors while choosing an interior timber floor finish for your Brisbane home. Some of the factors are:
- Desired floor appearance: the desired outcome is the primary feature in selecting the type of floor finish. Finishes can darken the timber or retain the natural color.
- Flow of foot traffic: High-traffic areas like living rooms and hallways require more durable finishes, such as polyurethane.
- Maintenance preferences: Some finishes require more frequent maintenance than others like hard wax oil. Easy-to-clean and maintained finishes are the first choice for homeowners who can spend a little time on floor maintenance.
- Environmental factors: Water-based finishes with low VOCs are ideal for homes with elderly, children, or pets.
EXTERIOR TIMBER DECK FINISHES
It is important to protect exterior timber elements just like interior ones, such as decks, patios, verandas, and other outdoor spaces. High levels of humidity, sunlight, and heavy rains in Brisbane can take a toll on exterior timber if it’s not properly treated.
As Brisbane’s climate is perfect for outdoor living, Budget Floor Sanding Brisbane regularly maintains, recoats, and restores timber decks. We also have a specialized long-nosed edging machine to reach in under your handrails to complete a professional deck restoration.
Common coating materials acquired for outdoor finishing are as follows:
Sikkens Deck is a premium oil-based timber coating offering excellent weather resistance for the harsh outdoor environment Brisbane decks endure. It is a high water-repellent, UV-resistant, exterior deck finish with a satin appearance that allows the wood grain to remain visible.
Decking Oil is an economical floor sanding deck finish but requires more frequent applications to maintain the condition of your wooden deck after the floor sanding process.
Both the above exterior timber deck finishes have their advantages and disadvantages.
The timber finish on outdoor timber decks does not last as long as interior finishes due to the harsh ultraviolet light it receives. If decks are not maintained the finish deteriorates and eventually flakes off leaving the raw timber deck exposed and vulnerable to timber rot. Damaged timber boards can lead to the timber deck needing a more expensive repair or replacement.
Restore your deck to its absolute best with Brisbane’s deck sanding specialists, Budget Floor Sanding Brisbane.
If you are uncertain which timber floor finishes best suit your circumstances and need floor sanding and polishing advice, contact us and let us help you with your floor sanding renovation questions.
Importance of Finishing Exterior Timber in Brisbane
Without proper maintenance and protection, exterior timber in Brisbane is vulnerable to getting damaged by:
- UV rays: Strong sunlight contains harmful UV rays that can cause timber to fade, crack, or become brittle over time.
- Moisture: Humidity, leaking pipes, rain, and dew can cause timber to warp, swell, and eventually rot if not properly sealed.
- Pests: Untreated timber is susceptible to termites. Pests and other wood-boring insects make holes in the floorboards, loosening the structure.
Types of Exterior Timber Finishes
There are many types of finishes available for exterior spaces in the house. These offer varying degrees of protection and aesthetic appeal.
Oil-Based
These finishes penetrate deep into the wood, nourish it, and provide long-term protection against the elements. Their ability to withstand Brisbane’s harsh climate makes them ideal for outdoor timber.
- Appearance: Oil-based finishes appear as a rich warm color that enhances the natural grain of the timber.
- Strength: These finishes offer strong protection against moisture and UV rays, making them a first choice for outdoor use.
- Maintenance: Easy-wearing oils require periodic reapplication, especially in high-exposure areas.
Common Oil-Based Finishes for Exterior Timber:
- Decking Oils: These oils protect against water and UV damage while allowing the wood to breathe.
- Sikkens Deck is a premium oil-based timber coating offering excellent weather resistance for the harsh outdoor environment Brisbane decks endure. It is a high water-repellent, UV-resistant, exterior deck finish with a satin appearance that allows the wood grain to remain visible.
- Teak Oil: Teak oil is a deep-penetrating oil that brings out the natural beauty of timber and protects it. It is ideal for hardwoods.
Water-Based Exterior Timber Finishes
Water-based finishes are a popular choice for exterior timber due to their ease of application and environmental benefits. They protect timber from moisture and UV damage by forming a protective barrier on the surface of the timber.
- Appearance: Water-based finishes are clear and non-yellowing. This property maintains the natural color of the wood.
- Strength: Highly resistant to UV rays and moisture, making it suitable for decks and outdoor furniture.
- Maintenance: Water-based finishes are easier to apply and clean up and require less maintenance than oil-based finishes.
Common water-Based Exterior Finishes:
- Acrylic Finishes: These finishes form a tough, weather-resistant barrier for exterior timber protection.
- Water-Based Sealers: preserve the natural appearance of the timber with a durable, protective coat that shields the timber from UV damage and moisture.
Stains and Varnishes
Availability in a variety of shades and a high level of protection makes stains and varnishes a popular choice among Brisbane homeowners.
- Appearance: Stains add color to the timber while keeping the natural grain look. Varnishes add a glossy or matte finish to the floor.
- Strength: Stains and varnishes are highly durable and provide excellent protection against moisture, UV rays, and daily wear and tear.
- Maintenance: This may require periodic reapplication, especially in high-traffic or sunlight-exposed areas.
Popular Stains and Varnishes:
- Timber Deck Stain: Add color to the timber and protect the wood from weather damage. Available in a wide range of colors to suit individual aesthetics.
- Marine Varnish: It is a high-gloss varnish that is designed for exterior timber floors. It provides excellent protection against moisture and UV damage.
Factors to Consider When Selecting an Exterior Timber Finish
Restore your deck to its absolute best with Brisbane’s deck sanding specialists, Budget Floor Sanding Brisbane. The timber finish on outdoor timber decks does not last as long as interior finishes due to the harsh ultraviolet light it receives. If decks are not maintained the finish deteriorates and eventually flakes off leaving the raw timber deck exposed and vulnerable to timber rot. Damaged timber boards can lead to the timber deck needing a more expensive repair or replacement.
The following factors are worthy to consider when selecting an exterior timber finish for your Brisbane home:
- Environmental exposure: Areas that receive a lot of sunlight or rain will require a more durable finish, such as oil-based or water-based sealers.
- Desired appearance: Stains can be used to achieve the required color. Some finishes darken the wood, while others maintain their natural look.
- Maintenance requirement: Exterior timber requires more maintenance and care than interior timber Choose a finish that suits your maintenance preferences.
- Type of timber: Different timbers may require different finishes. Hardwoods like teak and jarrah require oil-based finishes to enhance their appeal.
Timber Floors Polishing: The Key to Longevity
Polishing is crucial for the long-lasting beauty and durability of your timber floors. Whether you have interior or exterior timber floors, regular polishing protects the surface from daily wear and tear and will enhance the finish.
Importance of polishing timber floors
Polishing is important in a way that it enhances the floor’s appearance and adds a protective layer. It is crucial for the floor’s longevity as it:
- Restores shine by enhancing the glossy or matte finish of your floors.
- Enhances durability by preventing the scratch formation and warping and bending of the floorboards.
- Improves hygiene as dust and dirt particles cannot penetrate the crevices of the floorboards.
What Should Be The Frequency Of Polishing Timber Floors?
The frequency of polishing depends on the type of finish and the level of foot traffic your floors receive. As a general rule polish high-traffic areas every 6-12 months and other areas of the house every 1-2 years.
The Process of Polishing Timber Floors
Polishing timber floors involves the following key steps:
- Cleaning the premises: The floor must be thoroughly cleaned to remove any dirt, dust, or debris before polishing by sweeping, vacuuming, and mopping.
- Buff the floor: A floor buffer evens out any scratches or imperfections in the finish. This step prepares the surface for the polish.
- Polish application: The desired polish (wax, oil, or polyurethane-based) is applied to the surface by a mop or an applicator pad.
- Drying: Allow the polish to dry completely before walking on the floor. Depending on the type of polish used, the drying time varies from a few hours to a full day.
- Re-buff: For a glossy finish, the floor can be buffed again after the polish has dried.
How to decide which finish is best for Your Timber Floors?
Selecting the right finish for your timber floor depends on the type of timber, the location (interior or exterior)of the floor, and your lifestyle.
Here’s a summary of finishes that are best for different timber types:
Best Finish For High-Traffic Areas:
- Water-Based or Oil-Based Polyurethane – Best for Oak, jarrah, and other hardwoods that require strong surface protection. It provides the highest level of protection against wear and tear, making it ideal for busy households and commercial areas.
For a Matte Appearance:
- Hard Wax Oil– Hard wax or penetrating oils offer a natural, breathable finish that enhances the wood’s grain with a matte finish. Softwoods like pine or Tasmanian oak, are suitable for the nourishing effects of oil-based finishes.
For Decks and Verandas(Exterior Timber):
- Oil-Based Finish – Best for exterior timber as it provides the best protection against Brisbane’s humidity and sunlight while enhancing the natural grain of outdoor timber. Merbau, spotted gum, and others that need strong moisture and UV protection benefit from an oil-based finish.
Low-Maintenance Finishes:
- Polyurethane (Water-Based) –Water-based polyurethanes offer long-lasting protection with minimal maintenance.
Eco-Friendly Finishes:
Natural Oil or Water-Based Finishes – These have low VOC which makes them better for the environment and indoor air quality.
At Budget Floor Sanding, we understand that every timber floor has unique needs When selecting a finish for your timber flooring, it is essential to evaluate factors such as durability, aesthetic appeal, and maintenance needs. Whether you decide on oil-based, water-based, polyurethane, or wax finishes, our expert team at Budget Floor Sanding is here to support you in achieving the optimal look and protection for your timber flooring.
Frequently Asked Questions About Timber Floor Finishes and Polishing Brisbane
What are the different categories of interior timber floor finishes?
Interior timber floor finishes are categorized into four basic classes based on their “base” and finishing effect: oil-based finishes, composite oil-based/solvent-based finishes, solvent-based polyurethane finishes, and water-based finishes.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of oil-based timber floor finishes?
Advantages: Oil-based finishes provide a warm and high-tone effect to the floor, and they have excellent coverage. They also give the wooden floor a beautiful satin appearance.
Disadvantages: Oil-based finishes require more maintenance, as they do not wear well. With age, the wooden floor may darken and possibly yellow in darker areas or where it is covered. Edge bonding of the floorboards is unlikely.
How do composite oil-based/solvent-based interior floor finishes differ from pure tung oil-based finishes?
Composite oil-based/solvent-based finishes combine natural oils with urethanes to enhance wear qualities. They offer greater durability compared to pure tung oil-based finishes. Gloss levels can vary from high gloss to satin. Water-based versions with low VOC emissions are also available but at a higher cost.
What are the characteristics of solvent-based polyurethane floor finishes?
Solvent-based polyurethane provides the hardest finish among the four alternatives. It has excellent wear qualities and requires little maintenance. Gloss levels range from matt to very high gloss. The finish darkens with age, and there is a strong odor during application, which dissipates as it dries. Edge bonding of the floorboards can occur due to their high strength and limited flexibility.
Are water-based floor finishes a better option for those with respiratory issues?
Yes, water-based floor finishes are a better option for those with respiratory issues. They produce fewer fumes and have lower VOC emissions compared to solvent-based finishes. Water-based finishes cure faster and are environmentally friendly, providing improved durability and wear qualities.
How do water-based floor finishes compare to solvent-based finishes in terms of curing time and fumes?
Water-based finishes cure faster than solvent-based finishes. They produce fewer fumes during application and have lower VOC emissions. This makes water-based finishes a suitable choice if you need to stay in your home while the floor sanding and polishing process is being done.
What are the benefits of using raw untreated Scandinavian-looking timber floors with invisible protect?
Raw untreated Scandinavian-looking timber floors with invisible protect retain the natural appearance and feel of untreated timber. The almost invisible layer is extremely scratch-resistant, providing outstanding wear resistance. The original floorboard color is retained, and it has an anti-slip rating. This option is suitable for cork, parquetry, and interior wooden floors.
Where can invisible protect be applied, and what are its features?
Invisible protect, a water-based timber floor coating, can be applied to cork, parquetry, and interior wooden floors. It retains the natural appearance and feel of untreated timber while offering exceptional scratch resistance, wear resistance, and an anti-slip rating of R9.
What are the common coating materials used for exterior timber deck finishes?
Common coating materials for exterior timber deck finishes include Sikkens Deck, a premium oil-based timber coating that offers excellent weather resistance and allows the wood grain to remain visible, and Decking Oil, an economical option that requires more frequent applications.
How long do exterior timber deck finishes last, and what happens if they are not properly maintained?
The longevity of exterior timber deck finishes is influenced by various factors such as the quality of the coating, exposure to sunlight, weather conditions, and maintenance. Generally, exterior finishes do not last as long as interior finishes due to the harsh ultraviolet light they receive. If exterior timber deck finishes are not properly maintained, the finish can deteriorate over time. This can result in flaking off, leaving the raw timber deck exposed and vulnerable to timber rot. Damaged timber boards may require more expensive repairs or even replacement. It is essential to regularly maintain, recoat, and restore timber decks to ensure their longevity and preserve their aesthetic appeal. Professional deck sanding specialists, like Budget Floor Sanding Brisbane, have the expertise and specialized equipment to perform deck restoration effectively.
Are timber floor finishes pet-friendly and safe for children?
Yes, most timber floor finishes are safe for children and pets after the curing time has passed. It is better to opt for finishes with low VOCs in the house with pets and children. Water-based finishes are particularly suitable as they emit fewer VOCs, but it’s best to keep children and pets off the floor during the curing period.
How soon after polishing can I walk on the floor?
The minimum time to use or to walk on the floor after polishing with a water-based finish is 24 hours. Oil-based finishes require a longer drying time, often up to 48 hours or more. Avoid placing or dragging household items on the freshly cured floors for a week.
What are VOCs, and what is their role in floor finishes?
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are chemicals emitted as gases from certain finishes, especially oil-based products. High-VOC finishes pollute indoor air and cause serious breathing problems. Water-based finishes have low VOCs, making them a popular choice in Brisbane homes.