Swapped from water-based to oil-based polyurethane on a walnut desk last weekend and the depth of color blew me away.

I always figured water-based was just easier and good enough, but the oil-based really brought out the grain in a way I never saw before. Anyone else had a similar surprise switching finishes?

3 comments

3 Comments

john_cooper28d ago

Had a buddy try the same switch and his walnut desk ended up looking like a million bucks.

nancyw9728d ago

Just to clarify a little, oil-based poly usually has an amber tone that warms up the wood, while water-based stays clearer so you don't get that same richness in the grain. Your mileage may vary on the look though, it depends on the wood.

daniel_lane3026d ago

Oil-based poly also flashes off more fumes, so if you're spraying in a garage with the door cracked in winter, water-based is way more forgiving on the sinuses.