Sealer, Stain, and Finish Options
Water Polyurethane:
Water-based finish polyurethane offers a durable and eco-friendly solution for sealing and protecting various surfaces, ranging from hardwood floors to furniture pieces. Unlike traditional oil-based polyurethane, this formulation emits fewer fumes and has a faster drying time, making it ideal for indoor applications where ventilation may be limited. Its clear finish enhances the natural beauty of wood while providing excellent resistance to scratches, stains, and yellowing over time. Additionally, water-based polyurethane is easy to clean up with soap and water, reducing the hassle of post-application maintenance. Its low odor and quick recoat time make it a popular choice among DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike for achieving a professional-grade finish with minimal environmental impact.
Oil Polyurethane:
Oil-based finish polyurethane is a classic choice for sealing and protecting wood surfaces, prized for its deep, rich appearance and exceptional durability. This type of polyurethane creates a tough, glossy finish that enhances the natural grain of the wood, giving it a warm and timeless appeal. While it typically requires longer drying times and adequate ventilation during application due to its higher VOC content, oil-based polyurethane offers superior resistance to wear, moisture, and heat compared to water-based alternatives. Its amber hue adds warmth to wood surfaces, making it particularly popular for antique restoration projects or achieving a traditional aesthetic. Despite its longer drying time and stronger odor, many woodworkers and professionals continue to choose oil-based polyurethane for its unmatched durability and classic finish.
WOCA vs. Polyurethane
To color and protect your wood floors, we offer two distinct options:
- WOCA penetrating oil
- Stain/sealer with polyurethane finish
Either are wonderful options, but we made this reference page to help you decide which route is ideal for your flooring project.
WOCA is a Danish wood treatment company with roots dating back to the 1960’s. They have a huge presence in Europe and are expanding their distribution to North America. Lance from Timberwolf attended the first-ever WOCA Craftsman School at the NWFA Headquarters in St. Louis, MO in 2018 (our entire crew attended in 2019).
We are proud to be ambassadors of such a tremendous product.
The WOCA penetrating oils are entirely different from the typical stain and polyurethane finish route. Instead of sitting atop the wood, these oils penetrate (and harden) into the wood. This protects your floor from the inside and outside, while allowing the wood to “breathe” naturally. The result is a natural wood look and feel, instead of the cool, artificial surface of a polyurethane finish.
WOCA’s products are remarkably “green” when compared to polyurethane options. They are plant-based and low in VOCs (volatile organic compounds). For families with young children and pets, this is a huge advantage.
As beautiful as they are, wood floors are still floors. Cast iron pans will be dropped, kids will rollerblade, dogs will get zoomies. Which product will hold up better over time? The honest answer is whichever you take better care of.
Certainly WOCA will show fewer surface scratches than polyurethane because the oil-treated wood is deeper and stronger than most polyurethane finishes (we do offer upgraded heavy duty traditional finishes). With routine cleaning and periodic maintenance, your WOCA floor will actually look better as time goes on. It is also easier to fix any deep gouges or cuts on a WOCA floor without any major sanding.
We hope this has helped you get an idea for the products we use. Our team will be happy to help you determine which product is the best option for your home.