Environmental Concerns

In a waterborne finish the polyurethane molecules are dispersed in water. When the finish is applied, the water evaporates in 2 to 3 hours and the polyurethane forms the finish layer on the wood floor surface.

When solvent-based finishes are applied the solvent evaporates into the atmosphere leaving harmful fumes and a strong chemical odor that lasts for days as the material dries. These fumes are also highly flammable and some products can even be explosive. Cleaning up after applying these finishes contributes to the problem because mineral spirits or solvent thinners must be used.

Many states such as California, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Oregon and others have recognized these personal and environmental hazards and set limits on the VOC (Volatile Organic Component) content for paints, varnishes and finishes. Waterborne floor finishes are well below these compliance limits. They contain less hazardous solvents and only about 20% of the VOC level of the amount of solvents in a typical solvent-based finish.

Waterborne hardwood floor finishes are now a preferred finish for a new type of building called ECLU (Environmentally Clean Living Unit). These homes are designed for people who have a very low tolerance for chemicals of many kinds. Solid hardwood floors finished with a waterborne finish are much less troublesome for chemically-sensitive people than carpet or vinyl floor coverings.