Floor finishing -- Poly alternative

I need to finish new white oak floors and would love to hear from anyone who has used a non-polyurethane solution. I am hoping to achieve a light to medium brown matte/satin finish. So far, I’ve heard about Rubio Monocoat and Waterlox. I am concerned that the Waterlox will not give me the brown color I am seeking without the redish tone. And, I am concerned about the durability of the Monocoat — I have two very active kids and entertain quite a bit. Any experience with the durability of either of these products or suggestions for alternatives is greatly appreciated. Thanks

VAtoBK

in About Brooklyn 10 years and 11 months ago

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bliz | 10 years and 11 months ago

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If you’re going to finish the floor yourself with the Monocoat and you’re using a lighter finish, make sure you do a nice job with the sanding. Sanding flaws will show, though I think if you go with a darker finish they show less. Good luck!

VAtoBK | 10 years and 11 months ago

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Thanks. I think I will give the Monocoat a try. Hope it holds up well to kids.

bliz | 10 years and 11 months ago

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We have Rubio Monocoat on 2 different floors, one yellow pine and the other white oak. We are 2 adults and a large dog and for us it’s great. We first used it on the pine because we can do spot-repairs. It looked so amazing and held up so well that we used it on the oak. I love that it’s low VOC and application is relatively easy. I finished both floors myself and bought the Monocoat at Downtown Floor Supply on Lex in Manhattan.

presidentstps | 10 years and 11 months ago

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We used Bona Traffic w/ first a minwax stain on our upstairs white oak plank floors. We wanted something a bit lighter on the parlor, and did Waterlox with no stain and I really like how it turned out. Both seem durable so far (last year) with a dog and kids. Note that the Waterlox takes several days for the smell/fumes to dissipate vs the Bona.