At David Potter Flooring, we specialize in European Hardwax oil finishes — and for good reason. Unlike polyurethane, which sits on top of the wood as a thick plastic-like film, hardwax oils penetrate the wood to enhance its natural beauty while providing durable protection. Here’s why we love them and why our customers do too:

Natural Look & Feel
Hardwax oils don’t create a layer on the surface, so your hardwood keeps its natural grain and texture. The result is a soft, matte finish that feels like real wood — not plastic. This is perfect for homeowners who want their floors to look and feel authentic.

Color Options
European Hardwax oils can be pigmented during the finishing process, allowing us to achieve custom colors without adding extra steps. They highlight the wood’s natural character while giving you flexibility to create a unique look.

Low VOC & Eco-Friendly
Most hardwax oils have very low or even zero VOCs, making them safe for you, your family, and the environment. Unlike some polyurethanes, they don’t require strong ventilation or harsh chemicals.

Fewer Coats, Less Fuss
Hardwax oils are easy to apply — often in just a single coat — and excess is simply wiped away. Polyurethane, by comparison, usually requires multiple coats, careful sanding between applications, and a dust-free environment.

Protection & Repair
Hardwax oils provide excellent protection from liquids and daily wear. Light scratches blend naturally, and localized repairs are simple — no full sanding or refinishing required like with polyurethane.

Maintenance Made Simple
Maintaining your floors is easy. Periodic re-oiling restores protection and beauty without moving furniture or sanding. Polyurethane floors require more intensive maintenance, including full sanding and recoating.

In Short:
We choose hardwax oils because they enhance the natural beauty of your hardwood, are durable, safe, and eco-friendly, and make repairs and maintenance simple. For floors that feel as good as they look, this is our finishing method of choice.

For a detailed comparison of hardwax oils and polyurethanes, see https://www.rubiomonocoatusa.com/blogs/blog/hardwax-oil-vs-polyurethane?srsltid=AfmBOoql6mzTgGFmIDGgKd2xtRWhbiwE6v5MQZH0WjWC5w9S4yy2qNUf ›