Stains & Finishes Tips | Stains Color Choices
Oil Based Finish System | Water Based Finish System

Stains & Finishes Tips

Let us offer you a few tips on selecting a finish system for your home.

Hardwood floors add beauty and value to any home.
And it is the finish that really brings out that natural beauty of the wood and protects it from the abuse it gets underfoot. When it comes to selecting a finish for your floor there are some important things you should consider.

First there are two basic types of finish - solvent-based and waterborne.
Waterborne finishes are a relatively new development pioneered by BonaKemi in Sweden. These finishes have a low VOC (Volatile Organic Component) because they use water instead of solvents to carry the urethane molecules. They dry very quickly, approximately 2 to 3 hours, with a light, clean odor. Solvent-based finishes have a high VOC content, take much longer to dry (often 8 hours or more) with a strong chemical odor that can linger for days. If you are going to be finishing a residential floor you may want to consider one of the waterborne products, they are least disruptive to home life - you'll be able to use those rooms more quickly.

Your second consideration is sheen - the relative glossiness of the finish.
People have different preferences when it comes to sheen. Some people prefer a high gloss finish while others like a soft satin look. Some finishes dry very clear while others add a rich warm glow to the floor. Whatever your preference for color and sheen, BonaKemi has a finish that will work wonders on your floor.

The last consideration is cost.
It is true that the waterborne products are more expensive but finishes represent only a small portion of the overall cost of the job. BonaKemi premium waterborne products are formulated with state-of-the-art technology and are more durable than solvent-based formulas. Quick drying, low odor and environmental friendliness are advantages that weight the decision in favor of waterborne finishes.