Finishes

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Simply put,the finish is the wear layer.Its the coating that protects the raw wood from wear,abrasive damage,scuffs,spills and that type of damage.It doesn't protect against impact damage.

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One of the most popular questions I receive when refinishing a floor is whether I can match the old floor's amber finish while using a water based product.Typically water based products are non ambering and customers appreciate their advantages but love the golden/amber color of oil based finish .The answer is yes,we can make a water based finish look like an oil based finish by adding an ambering solution.

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Below are some key differences between the two types of finish.

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Water-Based Finishes

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• Relatively low VOC

• Doesnt smell strongly

• Will not yellow with time

• Very hard when fully cured

• Faster application of coats

• Easier to repair should damage occur

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Oil Based Finishes

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• Relatively high VOC content

• Smells strongly for up to two weeks

• Ambers/yellows with time

• Wear reasonably well

• Only one coat per day can be applied

• Difficult to repair if damaged

• Has a beautiful golden/amber tint when applied

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