Alternatives to polyurethane on wood floors. It penetrates into the wood unlike a film finish which sits on the surface. Although polyurethane gives natural wood floors a beautiful long lasting sheen it is also a toxic chemical and should be used with caution. As a result homeowners are turning to environment friendly natural and less toxic polyurethane alternatives. If youre into home repair or diy projects or renovating your own home you can definitely find alternatives to polyurethane wood sealant to make do without it.
By trying to eliminate all minor scratches and evidence of everyday living these floors are taking on an artificial look and losing their ability to reflect the natural patina of living that enhances their beauty. Three alternatives to polyurethane floor finishes. That penetration gives a depth to the woods grain thats hard to achieve with a film finish. It kind of hangs out on top and gets.
And because there are so many options out there here is a list to get you started on non toxic substitutes of polyurethane. This all natural plant derived product gives the wood a softer appearance and feel than synthetic finishes and allows the wood to breathe and age naturally. Alternatives to polyurethane a lot of people dont know how toxic coatings and paint used in ordinary situations can hamper their health. Hardwood doesnt work for all circumstances nor all budgets.
The oil never really makes it into the wood enough to finish. Polyurethane is available in two types water and. Ive read that danish oil type finishes can only be used on virgin or untreated surfaces so applying over stain wont work. The current emphasis on more and thicker layers of polyurethane and other polymer finishes is creating a generation of wood floors that look more like sheet vinyl.
Hardwood floor alternatives that are less expensive and wont break the bank. Some of these options will solve watermoisture issues some will save you moneyand some will do both. With the resurgence of antique looking floors contractors are going back to wax to create this look. Our grandmothers used to wax their floors.
Unfortunately polyurethane is very flammable and toxic. Applying danish oil is simple you dip a cloth in the finish then use it to flood the woods surface photo below let it soak in for 15 minutes and work more into areas that absorb the oil. Wax floors are warm and inviting. Simply breathing in or coming into contact with this product can trigger asthma attacks eye and skin irritation as well as cause a string of respiratory problems.
Even though organizations like the environmental protection agency epa are trying to raise awareness about this subject standard paints and chemicals today are still highly toxic. Their soft buttery finish gives the wood a beautiful depth that simply glows. What i really like about the danish oil is it finishes in the wood not on it.