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Best Oil Based Polyurethane For Wood Floors (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a way to preserve and enhance the natural beauty of your hardwood floors, then you may want to consider using an oil-based polyurethane coating. This durable, long-lasting finish can help protect your hardwood floors from wear and tear, while also giving them a glossy, polished look.

Before you buy any oil-based polyurethane products, however, there are a few factors that you should consider. For example, you should think about the type of wood flooring you have, as well as the amount of foot traffic your floors typically see. You’ll also want to take into account any specific needs or preferences you have when it comes to appearances, such as the level of glossiness you prefer.

If you’re interested in learning more about how oil-based polyurethane can benefit your hardwood floors, there are a few questions you might want to consider. Have you noticed signs of wear and tear on your floors, such as scratches or scuff marks? Are you tired of constantly having to maintain your hardwood floors with wax or other treatments? Do you want to add a professional, high-quality finish to your floors without breaking the bank? By answering these questions, you’ll be better equipped to decide whether oil-based polyurethane is the right choice for your needs.

10 Best Oil Based Polyurethane For Wood Floors

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This product is ideal for providing a clear and durable finish on wood surfaces.
2
The product is ideal for providing a durable protective finish on wood floors.
3
This product is ideal for providing durable protection and a satin or gloss finish to wood floors.
4
This product is ideal for providing durable and protective finishes to wooden floors, in both satin and semi-gloss.
5
The product is ideal for applying oil-based floor finish and comes with a pole for easier application.
6
This product is ideal for providing durable and protective finishes for wood floors.
7
It is ideal for protecting and enhancing the appearance of hardwood floors, providing a durable and long-lasting finish.
8
The product is ideal for adding a durable, semi-gloss finish to wood surfaces.
9
The product is ideal for providing protection and finishing to wood surfaces with a warm satin, fast-drying formula.
10
Ideal for providing a durable and glossy finish to floors in high traffic areas.
This product is ideal for providing a clear and durable finish on wood surfaces.
The product is ideal for providing a durable protective finish on wood floors.
This product is ideal for providing durable protection and a satin or gloss finish to wood floors.
This product is ideal for providing durable and protective finishes to wooden floors, in both satin and semi-gloss.
The product is ideal for applying oil-based floor finish and comes with a pole for easier application.
This product is ideal for providing durable and protective finishes for wood floors.
It is ideal for protecting and enhancing the appearance of hardwood floors, providing a durable and long-lasting finish.
The product is ideal for adding a durable, semi-gloss finish to wood surfaces.
The product is ideal for providing protection and finishing to wood surfaces with a warm satin, fast-drying formula.
Ideal for providing a durable and glossy finish to floors in high traffic areas.

1. Zar 33912 Oil Based Polyurethane Wood Finish, Qt, Clear

The interior use only MPI Category #57 included tough abrasion resistant finish is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a smooth, self-leveling formula. It is particularly useful for floors and is sure to provide a long-lasting finish that will look great for years to come.

The product's tough abrasion-resistant finish ensures that it can stand up to heavy use, making it ideal for high-traffic areas. It is also incredibly easy to apply, thanks to its self-leveling formula, which means that you don't need to be a professional painter to achieve a great finish.

Overall, this interior use only MPI Category #57 included product is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a durable, long-lasting finish for their floors or other high-traffic areas. Its smooth, self-leveling formula makes it easy to apply, while its tough abrasion-resistant finish ensures that it will look great for years to come.

Pros

  • Provides a tough and durable finish
  • Easy to apply thanks to its self-leveling formula
  • Ideal for high-traffic areas
  • Provides a smooth and even finish

2. Duraseal Satin Wood Floor Protector

The Patented Dura Seal formulation is the perfect solution for those who need extreme durability and tough stain / scratch resistance. This transparent oil-based formula provides a richer and deeper texture retention of floors while having the remarkable ability to remove spills and dirt, making it ideal for homes with pets and kids. The easy DIY application with quick drying time (just 8 hours) after application means that you don’t need to hire professional manpower by following the label instructions. With a high application rate of 500 sq. ft per gallon, it saves you from expensive application costs compared to similar products. Available in 4 diverse sheens (Matte, Satin, Gloss and Semi-Gloss) and package sizes (QT, GAL, 2.5 GAL AND 5 GAL) to suit your custom application requirements and personal preferences.

The Dura Seal formulation is the perfect solution for those who need extreme durability and tough stain/scratch resistance. Its transparent oil-based formula provides a richer and deeper texture retention of floors while removing spills and dirt, making it ideal for homes with pets and kids. Its easy DIY application with quick drying time (just 8 hours) means you don’t need to hire professional manpower by following the label instructions. It has a high application rate of 500 sq. ft per gallon, saving you expensive application costs compared to similar products. With 4 diverse sheens (Matte, Satin, Gloss and Semi-Gloss) and package sizes (QT, GAL, 2.5 GAL AND 5 GAL) available, it suits your custom application requirements and personal preferences.

If you are looking for something that can provide extreme durability and tough stain/scratch resistance, then the Patented Dura Seal formulation is what you need. Its transparent oil-based formula provides a richer and deeper texture retention of floors while removing spills and dirt, making it perfect for homes with pets and kids. Its easy DIY application with quick drying time (just 8 hours) means that you don’t need to hire professional manpower by following the label instructions. It has a high application rate of 500 sq. ft per gallon, which saves you expensive application costs compared to similar products. With 4 diverse sheens (Matte, Satin, Gloss and Semi-Gloss) and package sizes (QT, GAL, 2.5 GAL AND 5 GAL) available, it suits your custom application requirements and personal preferences perfectly.

Pros

  • Provides extreme durability and tough stain/scratch resistance
  • Transparent oil-based formula provides a richer and deeper texture retention of floors
  • Remarkable ability to remove spills and dirt, making it ideal for homes with pets and kids
  • Easy DIY application with quick drying time (just 8 hours) after application
  • High application rate of 500 sq. ft per gallon to save you from expensive application costs
  • Available in 4 diverse sheens (Matte, Satin, Gloss and Semi-Gloss) and package sizes (QT, GAL, 2.5 GAL AND 5 GAL) to suit your custom application requirements and personal preferences

3. Duraseal Wood Floor Sealant – Gloss & Satin

This product features a patented Dura Seal formulation that is specifically designed to provide extreme durability and resistance to tough stains and scratches. Its transparent oil-based formula enhances the texture retention of floors, and efficiently removes spills and dirt, making it an ideal choice for homes with pets and kids. With an easy DIY application process and quick drying time of just 8 hours, there is no need to hire professional manpower to apply it.

This product boasts a high application rate of 500 sq. ft per gallon, which helps to save on expensive application costs compared to similar products. It is available in 4 diverse sheens, including Matte, Satin, Gloss, and Semi-Gloss, and comes in different package sizes such as QT, GAL, 2.5 GAL, and 5 GAL, to suit your custom application requirements and personal preferences.

Pros

  • Patented Dura Seal formulation ensures extreme durability and resistance to tough stains and scratches
  • Transparent oil-based formula enhances texture retention of floors and removes spills and dirt
  • Easy DIY application process with quick drying time
  • High application rate of 500 sq. ft per gallon to save on expensive application costs
  • Available in 4 diverse sheens and different package sizes to suit your custom application requirements and personal preferences

4. Durable Satin Finish For Wood Floors.

This floor sealer features a patented Dura Seal formulation that is designed to provide extreme durability and resistance to tough stains and scratches. Its transparent oil-based formula is ideal for retaining the richer and deeper texture of floors, while its remarkable ability to remove spills and dirt makes it perfect for homes with pets and kids. You can easily apply it yourself with its DIY application and quick drying time of just 8 hours after application, without the need to hire professional manpower. With a high application rate of 500 sq. ft per gallon, it saves you from expensive application costs as compared to similar products. This floor sealer is available in 4 diverse sheens – Matte, Satin, Gloss, and Semi-Gloss – and package sizes ranging from QT, GAL, 2.5 GAL, and 5 GAL to suit your custom application requirements and personal preferences.

This floor sealer is specially designed to provide extreme durability and resistance to tough stains and scratches. Its transparent oil-based formula not only retains the richer and deeper texture of floors but also removes spills and dirt efficiently. This makes it ideal for homes with pets and kids. With a high application rate of 500 sq. ft per gallon, it saves you from expensive application costs. The product is available in 4 diverse sheens and package sizes, making it suitable for custom application requirements and personal preferences. It is also easy to apply yourself with its DIY application and quick drying time of just 8 hours after application.

Pros

  • Patented Dura Seal formulation for extreme durability
  • Tough stain and scratch-resistant
  • Transparent oil-based formula for richer and deeper texture retention of floors
  • Remarkable ability to remove spills and dirt
  • Ideal for homes with pets and kids
  • Easy DIY application with quick drying time
  • High application rate of 500 sq. ft per gallon
  • Available in 4 diverse sheens and package sizes to suit custom application requirements and personal preferences

5. Ettore 33112 Oil-Based Floor Finish Applicator With Pole, 12-Inch

Achieve a smooth and even coating on your hardwood floors with the 12-inch Oil-Based Floor Applicator. This top-quality floor applicator comes with a 53-inch pole handle, wood block, and applicator pad, all designed to provide an easy and efficient application process. The applicator is suitable for a variety of floor sizes, and you can choose from 7, 10, and 12-inch sizes to fit your needs. With its superior quality and design, the 12-inch Oil-Based Floor Applicator is an ideal choice for creating beautifully-finished hardwood floors.

The 12-inch Oil-Based Floor Applicator is a reliable and efficient tool for coating your hardwood floors. The applicator's 53-inch pole handle makes it easy to reach all areas of your floors, while the wood block and applicator pad ensure a smooth and even application. With its various sizes, the applicator is perfect for use on different floor sizes, and it can help you achieve a professional-looking finish every time.

If you're looking for an easy and efficient way to coat your hardwood floors, the 12-inch Oil-Based Floor Applicator is the perfect tool for the job. With its top-quality construction and design, this applicator is sure to provide you with the results you want.

Pros

  • Comes with 53-inch pole handle, wood block, and applicator pad for easy and efficient application
  • Available in various sizes to fit your needs
  • Ideal for creating beautifully-finished hardwood floors

6. Duraseal Matte Wood Floor Finish – Polyurethane Protection

The Patented Dura Seal formulation is an excellent solution for those seeking extreme durability and tough stain and scratch resistance for their floors. This transparent oil-based formula not only retains the richer and deeper texture of the floors but also has a remarkable ability to remove spills and dirt. It is ideal for homes with pets and kids.

This product is easy to apply and has a quick drying time of just 8 hours after application. You do not need to hire professional manpower as the label instructions are easy to follow. With a high application rate of 500 sq. ft per gallon, it is an affordable option compared to similar products.

The product is available in 4 diverse sheens – Matte, Satin, Gloss, and Semi-Gloss and comes in package sizes of QT, GAL, 2.5 GAL, and 5 GAL to suit your custom application requirements and personal preferences.

Pros

  • Patented Dura Seal formulation designed for extreme durability and tough stain/scratch resistance
  • Transparent oil-based formula for richer and deeper texture retention
  • Remarkable ability to remove spills and dirt
  • Easy DIY application with quick drying time
  • High application rate of 500 sq. ft per gallon
  • Available in 4 diverse sheens and package sizes to suit custom application requirements and personal preferences

7. Varathane 6041h Oil-Based Ultimate Polyurethane, Quart, Semi-Gloss Finish

This oil-based formula is specially designed to protect interior wood surfaces such as furniture, cabinets, trim, and doors. It provides maximum durability, ensuring that your wood surfaces stay protected for a long time. The unique formula creates an even finish, leaving your surfaces looking smooth and classy.

With a coverage of up to 150 sq. ft., this wood finish dries to the touch in just 2 hours, making it an ultra-fast-drying option. You can recoat in just 4 hours, which means you can finish the task quickly and efficiently. The semi-gloss finish adds to the aesthetic appeal of your wood surfaces, creating a perfect finish.

This wood finish offers outstanding stain and scratch resistance, ensuring that your wood surfaces remain protected from scratches and stains. You can be sure that your wood surfaces will stay looking new for a long time with this wood finish.

Pros

  • Oil-based formula provides maximum durability
  • Ultra-fast dry time of just 2 hours
  • Outstanding stain and scratch resistance
  • Semi-gloss finish creates a smooth and classy look

8. Minwax Fast Drying Polyurethane Protective Wood Finish, Warm Satin, 1 Quart

The Minwax Polyurethane Wood Finish is an oil-based clear top coat, designed to protect your interior wood projects like furniture, floors, cabinets, and woodwork. It is one of the most durable coatings available, providing long-lasting protection against scratches, spills and other types of damage. The clear finish is available in a variety of sheens, making it ideal for both finished and unfinished wood projects.

This protective coating provides a satin sheen, which gives your wood projects a sleek and modern look. The unique sheen not only protects the natural beauty of the wood but also adds a touch of coziness to your space. Plus, it dries quickly, allowing for quick recoats after 4-6 hours, so you can get your projects done faster.

Minwax is a brand that you can trust. It is America's leading brand of wood finishing and wood care projects, inspiring consumers to keep on finishing since 1904. They offer a complete line of products to meet every wood finishing need, ensuring that your wood surfaces receive the care and protection they deserve.

Overall, if you are looking for a protective coating that provides superior durability, beautiful sheen, and fast-drying capabilities, then the Minwax Polyurethane Wood Finish is the perfect choice for you.

Pros

  • Provides long-lasting protection against scratches, spills, and other types of damage
  • Available in a variety of sheens, making it ideal for both finished and unfinished wood projects
  • Offers a sleek and modern satin sheen, adding coziness to your space
  • Dries quickly, allowing for quick recoats after 4-6 hours
  • Comes from a trusted brand with a complete line of products to meet every wood finishing need

9. Rust-Oleum 130031 Varathane Gallon Gloss Oil Base Premium Polyurethane Floor Finish

Introducing the Oil-based wood floor finish – Classic Clear Gloss, the perfect solution for those who want to achieve a high-quality finish on their wood floors. This product has been specially formulated to provide excellent self-leveling, which eliminates brush marks and ensures a smooth and uniform finish. The finish is clear and glossy, which enhances the natural beauty of wood.

The Oil-based wood floor finish – Classic Clear Gloss is not only aesthetically pleasing, but it also delivers great scratch and mar resistance, protecting your wood floors from wear and tear. The finish is durable and long-lasting, ensuring that your floors remain beautiful for years to come. Additionally, the finish provides a warm, golden glow, which adds warmth and character to any room.

This product is easy to apply and dries quickly, making it ideal for busy households. It is also easy to clean and maintain, ensuring that your floors look great with minimal effort. Whether you are looking to refinish your existing wood floors or install new ones, the Oil-based wood floor finish – Classic Clear Gloss is the perfect choice for achieving a professional-looking finish.

Pros

  • Provides excellent self-leveling, which eliminates brush marks and ensures a smooth and uniform finish.
  • Delivers great scratch and mar resistance, protecting your wood floors from wear and tear.
  • Durable and long-lasting, ensuring that your floors remain beautiful for years to come.
  • Provides a warm, golden glow, which adds warmth and character to any room.
  • Easy to apply and dries quickly, making it ideal for busy households.
  • Easy to clean and maintain, ensuring that your floors look great with minimal effort.

Best Oil Based Polyurethane For Wood Floors FAQs

Can oil-based polyurethane be used on previously finished wood floors?

Yes, oil-based polyurethane can be used on previously finished wood floors. However, there are a few things to consider before doing so. First, it is important to ensure that the previous finish has been completely removed or sanded down to avoid unevenness or peeling of the new finish. Second, oil-based polyurethane tends to yellow over time and may darken the color of the wood, so it is important to take this into account when choosing a finish. Finally, oil-based polyurethane has a strong odor and requires adequate ventilation during application and drying.

It is also worth noting that there are alternative finishes available, such as water-based polyurethane, that offer similar durability and protection without the strong odor or yellowing effect. Ultimately, the choice of finish will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the project. It is always recommended to thoroughly research and test any new finish before applying it to a large area to ensure the desired results.

How long does oil-based polyurethane take to dry on wood floors?

Oil-based polyurethane is a popular choice for finishing wood floors as it provides a durable and protective coat that helps preserve the floor's natural beauty. When it comes to drying time, oil-based polyurethane generally takes around 24-48 hours to dry completely. However, the exact drying time can vary depending on factors such as humidity, temperature, and ventilation.

It's important to note that while the surface may feel dry to the touch after a few hours, it's best to wait at least 24 hours before walking on the floor or placing any furniture on it. This will ensure that the finish has had enough time to cure and harden properly.

In addition, it's recommended to avoid any foot traffic or heavy use of the floor for at least 72 hours after applying the final coat of polyurethane. This will give the finish enough time to fully cure and become resistant to damage.

Overall, while the drying time for oil-based polyurethane may take a few days, the end result is a beautiful and long-lasting finish that will protect your wood floors for years to come.

How many coats of oil-based polyurethane should be applied to wood floors?

When it comes to applying oil-based polyurethane on wood floors, the number of coats required depends on several factors. Generally, two to three coats are recommended for optimal results. However, the number of coats may vary depending on the type of wood, the condition of the floor, and the desired level of sheen.

Before applying polyurethane, it is important to prepare the floor properly. This involves sanding the floor using progressively finer grits of sandpaper to remove any imperfections, dirt, or previous finishes. It is also essential to wipe the floor clean and allow it to dry completely.

Once the floor is ready, the first coat of polyurethane should be applied thinly and evenly using a brush or roller. Allow this coat to dry completely before applying the next coat. Subsequent coats should also be applied thinly and evenly, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.

It is important to note that applying too many coats of polyurethane can result in a thick and uneven finish, which may require additional sanding and refinishing. Therefore, it is best to follow the manufacturer's instructions and apply the recommended number of coats for best results.

What are the benefits of using oil-based polyurethane for wood floors?

Oil-based polyurethane is a popular finish for wood floors due to its numerous benefits. Firstly, it creates a hard and durable protective layer that shields the floor from scratches, dents, and other forms of wear and tear. This makes it ideal for high-traffic areas such as living rooms, hallways, and kitchens. Additionally, oil-based polyurethane is available in different sheens, allowing homeowners to choose the level of shine that suits their preferences.

Another benefit of using oil-based polyurethane is that it brings out the natural beauty of the wood grain. Unlike water-based finishes that tend to create a cloudy or hazy appearance, oil-based polyurethane enhances the natural color and texture of the wood. Moreover, this type of finish is easy to apply and dries quickly, reducing the amount of time and effort needed to complete the project.

Lastly, oil-based polyurethane is resistant to moisture, making it ideal for use in areas that are prone to spills and moisture, such as bathrooms and kitchens. Overall, using oil-based polyurethane for wood floors is a smart investment that not only enhances the beauty of the floor but also protects it from damage, ensuring that it lasts for many years.

What is the best technique for applying oil-based polyurethane to wood floors?

When it comes to applying oil-based polyurethane to wood floors, there are a few techniques that can help ensure a smooth and even finish. The first step is to properly prepare the floor by sanding it and removing any dust or debris. Next, it's important to choose the right type of brush or applicator. A high-quality synthetic brush, foam roller or T-Bar applicator can work well for this purpose. It's also important to apply the polyurethane in thin, even coats, working in sections and overlapping each stroke slightly to avoid leaving any streaks or lines. It's also important to allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next one. Depending on the humidity and temperature levels, this can take anywhere from a few hours to overnight. Finally, once the final coat is dry, it's important to buff the surface lightly with a fine-grit sandpaper or steel wool to remove any imperfections and create a smooth, glossy finish. With these techniques in mind, you can achieve a beautiful, long-lasting finish on your wood floors.

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