HARDWAX
OILS & FLOOR LACQUERS 

Benefits of polyurethane Lacquers:

• Fast-drying water-based version cuts coating time in half compared to oil-based polyurethane and traditional oil or wax finishes.

• Most durable floor finish available.

• Easy to clean and maintain; no reapplication needed between recoats.

Downsides of polyurethane:

• You can't apply oil-based over water-based polyurethane.

• The thin resin layer can crack or lift, exposing raw timber below.

• Touching up damaged areas is challenging and often requires redoing a large section, with patches not blending easily.

• Over time, polyurethane can become scuffed and scratched, necessitating recoating every decade or so, depending on usage.​

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Benefits of hard wax oil:

• Non-toxic and low odour during application.

• Warm sheen and depth of colour enhance the character and grain of timber.

• Wax provides added stain resistance compared to oil alone.

• Hard-wearing with excellent water resistance.

• Flexible surface doesn't crack or lift like polyurethane.

• Easy to apply and maintain, suitable for non-professionals.

• Simple repairs; spot touch-ups blend easily with the floor.

• Easy to clean.

• Quick-drying clear hard wax oil allows for recoating in one day.

• Maintains appearance well over time; regular wax applications strengthen the surface.

• Open and breathable finish; water-repellent and dirt-resistant.

Downsides of hard wax oil:

• Higher viscosity may require more labor to apply than oil or polyurethane.

• Not as hard or long-lasting as polyurethane.

• Requires recoating every two to three years in high-traffic areas; needs more frequent cleaning with special soaps.

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Benefits of wood oil:

• Non-toxic and low odour during application.

• Low sheen and depth of colour enhance the character and grain of timber.

• Easy to apply and maintain, suitable for non-professionals.

• Repairs are easier than with polyurethane; scratches can be buffed and blended easily with the surrounding floor.

• Maintains appearance well over time with regular oil applications.

• Provides an open and breathable finish.

Downsides of wood oil:

• Not as hard or long-lasting as polyurethane.

• Requires recoating every two to three years in high-traffic areas.

• Long drying times between coats extend the finishing process.

• Oiled floors need more frequent cleaning with special soaps.