Finish Systems

Choose Your Finish Type

The right finish isn’t about preference—it’s about matching the job.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the core systems we carry and when to use each.

Water-Based Finishes

Low odor. Fast cure. Non-ambering. This is the modern standard.

Water-based systems dominate today’s professional market—especially 2-component (2K) finishes, which deliver the highest durability available in a waterborne system.

  • Best for: fast turnaround, occupied homes, high-traffic durability

  • Look: clear, non-yellowing

  • Performance: 2K systems lead the industry

What we carry:
Berger-Seidle, Loba, Bona, and DuraSeal—contractor-grade systems that perform under real jobsite conditions.

Most of our contractor systems are built around high-performance 2K water-based finishes.

Oil-Based Polyurethane

The industry standard for warmth, reliability, and forgiveness.

Oil poly has long open times, strong chemical resistance, and a rich amber tone that deepens over time. It remains one of the most forgiving systems to apply.

  • Best for: traditional look, slower working pace

  • Look: warm amber tone

  • Performance: durable, highly resistant, and tolerant of minor contamination

What we carry:
DuraSeal and Masterline—proven oil-based systems contractors trust.

Hardwax Oil Systems

Natural look. Repairable. Completely different category.

Hardwax oils penetrate into the wood rather than building a surface film, giving you a true “in-the-wood” feel with unmatched ease of maintenance.

  • Best for: natural matte appearance, spot repair

  • Look: raw wood, low-build finish

  • Performance: easy to clean, easy to touch up

What we carry:
Rubio Monocoat with one of the largest in-store selections in the United States—full color range and all sizes available.

Oil-Based Stains

Color control that works with both oil and water-based systems.

Oil-based stains remain the most reliable way to achieve consistent color while providing a forgiving application window and strong base for topcoats.

  • Best for: consistent color, longer working time

  • Compatibility: works under oil or water-based finishes

  • Performance: proven, predictable results

What we carry:
Full color lines from DuraSeal and Berger-Seidle.

How to Choose

  • Need speed and durability → water-based (2K)

  • Want warmth and forgiveness → oil poly

  • Want natural look and repairability → hardwax oil

  • Need color control → start with oil-based stain

If the floor has contamination or unknown history, start with a system instead.
Problem Floors Page

Need Help Choosing?

Text a photo and what you’re trying to achieve and we’ll point you in the right direction.

👉 Tap to Call/Text (612) 812-3628