Expectations
Is an oil finish more durable than a polyurethane finish?
The short answer is no to a complex question.
Polyurethane provides a protective film that repels water and stains, but it can be difficult to repair once damaged. Its protective coating scratches and wears down over time, making it necessary to sand and recoat the entire floor every few years.
In contrast, WOCA Oils penetrate the wood and create a layer of protection from the inside out. Minor scratches and everyday wear and tear can be repaired by applying more oil to the affected area. With the recommended cleaning products, oiled floors have better resistance to stains and water damage.
Without proper care, oiled floors can be more susceptible to stains and damage.
WOCA Oiled floors do not require sanding when it's time to "refinish". It is a less invasive process than standard refinishing. The process is clean and apply a maintenance coat of oil, only to the areas that need it.
What is the life expectancy of the natural oil finish?
Forever, if the recommended care and maintenance is done.
It depends on many factors, but generally speaking a residential setting should expect to need a maintenance coat of oil in 5-10 years.
A commercial setting should expect to need a maintenance coat of oil in 1-3 years.
How does an oil finish hold up to pets?
An oil finish can tolerate moderate wear from dogs and cats. Scratch and spills can be repaired and cleaned as long as it is done in a timely manner.
Do I need a separate product to topcoat an oil finish to make it more durable?
No.
The sheen is too dull. How can I make it look shiny?
All WOCA Oils have a matte sheen. To achieve a satin sheen polish in the 2nd coat with patina discs or apply Maintenance Gel as the 2nd coat.
Is it harder to maintain an oil finished floor versus a sealed polyurethane floor?
Not really, both floors need to be cleaned and refinished.
With an oiled floor, we are very specific about which products to use to clean and maintain compared to a polyurethane floor.
In the long run an oiled floor is easier to maintain because refinishing does not require sanding. An oiled floor is cleaned and a fresh coat of maintenance oiled is applied. Only refinishing traffic patterns and specific rooms can be done with oil as well.
In contrast, refinishing a polyurethane floor requires sanding the entire floor and starting over the finishing process.
Can I use your oil finish on cabinets, trim, doors, decorative beams? Is maintenance the same?
Yes. WOCA Interior Oils can be used on any unfinished interior wood surface. Maintenance is the same but less frequent than flooring as beams and trim do not receive and foot traffic.
Can I use the Diamond Oil Active or Master Color Oil on a butcher block counter or table?
Yes, they can be used, but the are not rated as food contact safe, like WOCA Worktop Oil.