When choosing between polyurethane and water-based varnish for parquet, it’s crucial to understand their benefits and drawbacks. Is the cost a downside of water-based varnish? Which varnish should you choose if wear resistance is a priority?
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Polyurethane Varnish: Pros and Cons
Advantages:
- Durability: Polyurethane varnish is known for its exceptional durability. When applied to a well-laid parquet on a properly prepared surface, it creates a flooring solution that can last for decades.
- Wear Resistance: These varnishes are highly resistant to wear. Many users find the level of abrasion resistance almost unbelievable.
- Aesthetic Enhancement: Polyurethane varnish can give wood a certain hue, often imparting a warm, slightly yellowish tone to light-colored wood. Depending on personal preference, this can be seen as either an advantage or a disadvantage.
Disadvantages:
- Strong Odor: One significant downside is the strong smell of fumes during application, which can be harmful. Adequate ventilation is necessary during this process.
- Lingering Odor: In renovation projects, the strong smell can persist for months, potentially causing discomfort if the space is already inhabited. Factors like room ventilation, temperature, and humidity can influence this.
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Water-Based Varnish: Pros and Cons
Advantages:
- Non-Toxic: The primary benefit is its non-toxicity. During application and drying, only water evaporates.
- Comparable Quality: Modern water-based varnishes have reached the quality levels of polyurethane varnishes. While there have been complaints about the quality in the past, today’s formulations are much improved.
- Color Stability: Water-based varnishes minimally change the wood’s color during application. Pigments can be added if a specific hue or enhanced texture is desired. Over time, these varnishes do not yellow or develop a patina when exposed to sunlight.
- Faster Drying: On average, water-based varnishes dry faster than polyurethane ones. However, drying time depends on factors such as layer thickness, temperature, humidity, and room ventilation.
Disadvantages:
- Wear Resistance: While water-based varnishes have improved significantly, polyurethane varnishes are still the more reliable choice if wear resistance is the top priority.
- Cost: Initially, the cost was a major advantage of polyurethane varnishes. However, with the increased popularity and availability of high-quality water-based varnishes, prices have become more comparable. Nonetheless, it’s recommended to opt for top-quality products when choosing water-based varnishes.
Making the Right Choice
When installing new parquet or refurbishing an old one and choosing varnish over oil, wax, or other protective finishes, both polyurethane and water-based varnishes offer distinct advantages and disadvantages. Your choice will depend on your specific needs, such as wear resistance, color preference, and sensitivity to odors and toxins.
Photo: Freepik, Andrews Coatings