Hardwood floors add beauty and value to any home.
And it is the finish that really brings out that natural beauty of the wood and protects it from the abuse it gets underfoot. When it comes to selecting a finish for your floor there are some important things you should consider.

First there are two basic types of finish - solvent-based and waterborne.

Waterborne finishes are a relatively new development pioneered by BonaKemi in Sweden. These finishes have a low VOC (Volatile Organic Component) because they use water instead of solvents to carry the urethane molecules. They dry very quickly, approximately 2 to 3 hours, with a light, clean odor. Solvent-based finishes have a high VOC content, take much longer to dry (often 8 hours or more) with a strong chemical odor that can linger for days. If you are going to be finishing a residential floor you may want to consider one of the waterborne products, they are least disruptive to home life - you'll be able to use those rooms more quickly.

Second are the solvent-based polyurethanes.

Minwax® Super Fast-Drying Polyurethane for Floors Description is one example.   Minwax® Super Fast-Drying Polyurethane for Floors is a clear, oil-based, durable protective finish specifically formulated for hardwood floors. It applies more easily than regular polyurethane to floor surfaces. It gives long lasting protection and beauty to floors in a super fast drying, easy to apply formula that levels to a smooth, even sheen.

Your next consideration is sheen - the relative glossiness of the finish.

People have different preferences when it comes to sheen. Some people prefer a high gloss finish while others like a soft satin look. Some finishes dry very clear while others add a rich warm glow to the floor. Whatever your preference for color and sheen, Norton Floors will help you find a finish that will work wonders on your floor.

The last consideration is color.