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Best Varnish For Hardwood Floors (2024 Update)

When it comes to hardwood floors, choosing the right varnish is key to protecting their natural beauty while maintaining a brilliant shine. With so many options on the market, it can get overwhelming determining which varnish is best for your needs. Before making a purchase, consider the sheen, durability, ease of application and any special requirements you may have.

Will you prefer a satin, semi-gloss or high gloss finish? Do you need maximum protection from spills, pets and high traffic? Are you looking for a varnish that goes on easily without streaks or bubbles? Is low odor a priority? Are you seeking a water-based or oil-based formula? Answering these questions will help narrow your choices.

You’ll also want to think about prep work. Does your floor require sanding first or can the varnish be applied directly? How long will the varnish take to dry and cure before furniture can be moved back in? Investing a little time upfront considering these factors will ensure you select the ideal hardwood floor varnish for your home.

With some careful research and planning, you’ll be able to reveal the true radiance of your hardwood floors. Their natural elegance will shine through for years to come with the right protective barrier. Get ready to be amazed at the transformation the proper varnish can bring.

10 Best Varnish For Hardwood Floors

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for sealing, staining, and protecting interior wood surfaces like floors, furniture, cabinets, and doors in one step.
2
The product is ideal for restoring the finish and caring for interior wood furniture, table tops, stone, and metal.
3
The product is ideal for providing a durable and attractive satin finish on various surfaces.
4
The product is ideal for adding a protective coating to wooden floors, increasing their durability and enhancing their appearance.
5
The product is ideal for waterproofing and finishing natural wood.
6
The product is ideal for providing a smooth satin finish on surfaces, such as wood, that require a protective coating.
7
Ideal for wood finishing, staining, and protecting, providing a smooth and durable finish in just one step.
8
The product is ideal for creating a high-gloss finish on various surfaces, including wood, metal, and plastic.
9
Ideal for protecting and finishing wooden surfaces with a clear, satin finish in a fast-drying formula.
10
The product is ideal for staining and finishing wood with a golden oak color.
Ideal for sealing, staining, and protecting interior wood surfaces like floors, furniture, cabinets, and doors in one step.
The product is ideal for restoring the finish and caring for interior wood furniture, table tops, stone, and metal.
The product is ideal for providing a durable and attractive satin finish on various surfaces.
The product is ideal for adding a protective coating to wooden floors, increasing their durability and enhancing their appearance.
The product is ideal for waterproofing and finishing natural wood.
The product is ideal for providing a smooth satin finish on surfaces, such as wood, that require a protective coating.
Ideal for wood finishing, staining, and protecting, providing a smooth and durable finish in just one step.
The product is ideal for creating a high-gloss finish on various surfaces, including wood, metal, and plastic.
Ideal for protecting and finishing wooden surfaces with a clear, satin finish in a fast-drying formula.
The product is ideal for staining and finishing wood with a golden oak color.

1. Saman Interior One Step Wood Seal, Stain And

For over two decades, SamaN has been the preferred choice of professional woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts across North America. They are committed to promoting greener products for a more sustainable future.

SamaN Interior Fine Wood Seal Stain and Varnish is a safe and odorless product that is low in VOC. It poses no risk to the health of its users, pets, or the environment.

This high-quality product allows you to seal, stain, and varnish your furniture and fine wood in one super quick step. There is no need for sanding or stripping, making it an easy-to-use solution for those short on time.

With over 20 colors to choose from, SamaN Interior Fine Wood Seal Stain and Varnish offers a wide range of options to help you achieve your desired look.

Simply use a foam brush or a good quality brush to apply the product and achieve a unique look quickly. This fast-acting, one-coat-only product will help you achieve the makeover you've been dreaming of in no time.

2. Furniture Clinic Linseed Oil Restore & Shine

Furniture Clinic Wood Stain is a highly concentrated and fast-drying solution that is effective on both indoor and outdoor wooden surfaces. Its superior formula allows for excellent coverage and even color penetration, resulting in a natural matte finish within just 10 minutes.

With 12 different colors to choose from, ranging from dark to light, you can easily restore old and tired-looking wood with just one coat. This wood stain is available in multiple sizes, making it a versatile solution for any project.

Furniture Clinic Wood Stain is water-based, environmentally friendly, and safe to use. Its low odor and non-toxic composition make it ideal for use on all interior wood projects, including furniture, cabinets, doors, trim, floors, and more.

For best results, it is recommended to use Furniture Clinic Wood Waxes, Wood Varnishes, or Wood Oils to seal in the stain after application. This will enhance the color and provide additional protection while giving you the option to alter the finish to either satin or gloss.

Furniture Clinic understands that protecting wooden surfaces can be a precise task, and their experts are available to answer any questions you may have before purchasing. Additionally, if you're not satisfied with the results (although they expect you will be), they offer a money-back guarantee, ensuring customer satisfaction.

3. Loba Ws 2k Supra – Satin

The Lobadur two-component waterborne finish is an excellent choice for those looking for an environmentally friendly solution. This finish is designed to be easy to use and can be applied with a T-Bar, brush, lambswool, or roller. With its non-yellowing properties, this finish will maintain its original color for years to come.

The Lobadur finish is a two-component waterborne solution that is both eco-friendly and easy to use. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking for a high-quality finish that is also sustainable. The finish can be applied using a variety of tools, including a T-Bar, brush, lambswool, or roller, making it versatile and easy to work with.

One of the key benefits of the Lobadur finish is its non-yellowing properties. This means that the finish will maintain its original color over time, even with exposure to sunlight and other environmental factors. This is especially important for those looking to maintain the natural color and beauty of their wood surfaces.

4. Minwax 13021000 S-Gls Floor Poly

This premium Interior Oil Based Semi-Gloss Finish is the perfect solution for those seeking to protect and enhance the beauty of their hardwood floors. Specially formulated for hardwood floors, this product provides long-lasting protection while leveling to a smooth and even sheen.

Application of the product is a breeze, thanks to its easy-to-apply formula. Additionally, this semi-gloss finish dries exceptionally quickly, making it an ideal option for those who want to quickly restore the look of their floors without having to wait for days on end.

The finish offers an unparalleled level of durability, ensuring that it can withstand heavy foot traffic, spills, and other common sources of wear and tear. The semi-gloss finish enhances the natural beauty of your hardwood floors, giving them a subtle shine that is sure to impress.

This product is a must-have for anyone looking to protect and enhance their hardwood floors. Don't settle for subpar finishes that can't stand up to the demands of everyday life. Order this Interior Oil Based Semi-Gloss Finish today and give your floors the protection and shine they deserve!

5. Hope's 100% Pure Tung Oil, Waterproof Natural Wood Finish And Sealer, 32 Fl Oz, 1 Pack

Craftsmen recognize Tung oil as a natural oil that provides the ultimate hand-rubbed finish for all fine woods. Hope's Tung Oil is easy to use; simply wipe on and allow the oil to cure at room temperature. Unlike other finishes that form a film on the wood's surface, tung oil penetrates deep into the wood fibers, cures to a flexible non-oily solid, and becomes part of the wood itself. This permeating characteristic makes it resistant to moisture, alcohol, oil, and everyday wear, offering lasting beauty and protection. It lasts many times longer than mineral oil and wax-based products.

Hope's Tung Oil is versatile and provides amazing results on almost any surface that will allow the oil to penetrate. It works wonders on new unfinished wood, weathered wood, stripped wood, concrete floors and countertops, and even brick, stone, and cast iron.

Moreover, Hope's Tung Oil is an excellent choice for food contact surfaces. Since tung oil is considered non-toxic when dry, it is great for cutting boards, butcher blocks, countertops, wooden bowls, wooden utensils, and more.

Hope's Tung Oil is 100% pure and is considered the “best of the best” pure Tung oil grades. The brand only uses premium oil, pressed from the best Tung nut crops from growers around the world.

When choosing a Tung oil brand, Hope's is the #1 best-selling brand, recognized by experts. The company, with 50 years of experience, stands by its product, ensuring customers get the best results for their fine woods.

6. Loba Ws Easy Finish Satin

The Lobadur one-component waterborne finish is the perfect solution for those who desire both an environmentally friendly and high quality finish for their flooring. This product is easy to apply with a T-Bar, brush, lambswool or roller, ensuring a seamless finish every time. As an added bonus, this finish is non-yellowing, ensuring that your floor stays looking beautiful for years to come.

Not only is this product eco-friendly, it is also designed with ease of use in mind. The straightforward application process allows for a quick and efficient finish, without any complicated steps or specialized equipment. Whether you are a professional or a do-it-yourselfer, this product is perfect for achieving a stunning finish on your flooring.

The Lobadur one-component waterborne finish is formulated with high-quality ingredients to ensure a durable and long-lasting finish. This finish is designed to protect your flooring from scratches, scuffs, and other types of wear and tear. Additionally, its non-yellowing formula ensures that your flooring will maintain its original color, even after years of use.

7. Varathane 225250h One-Step

The interior wood finishing projects are now made easy with the Varathane One-Step Stain & Polyurethane. This product is perfect for intricate moldings, wood furniture, trim, cabinets, doors, and paneling.

The oil-based formula provides an exceptional deep, rich color and a renowned Varathane polyurethane finish in just one easy application. With a thorough dry time of only 3 hours, it can cover up to 100 sq ft. The stain and polyurethane technology together provide a long-lasting and durable protective coating that creates a smooth, semi-gloss finish.

This product offers even color without any brush marks, and it has premium protection for all your interior wood finishing projects. The water-based formula offers fast application and easy soap and water clean-up.

With its exceptional quality and ease of use, the Varathane One-Step Stain & Polyurethane is a must-have for any DIY enthusiast or professional woodworker. Order yours today and experience the ease of use and superior finish of this amazing product.

8. Loba Ws Easyfinish – Gloss

The Lobadur one-component waterborne finish is an environmentally friendly option for those seeking a high-quality finish. It offers an easy-to-use application process, allowing users to apply it with a T-Bar, brush, lambswool, or roller. This versatile product delivers a non-yellowing finish, ensuring that the surface maintains its original color and appearance over time.

Crafted with the environment in mind, this one-component waterborne finish is a great solution for those looking for a sustainable option. It offers a straightforward application process, allowing users to achieve professional results with ease. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a DIY enthusiast, this product is perfect for achieving a high-quality finish on a variety of surfaces.

With its non-yellowing properties, this finish is ideal for use on surfaces that require long-lasting protection. It maintains the original color of the surface, ensuring that it looks as good as new for years to come. Additionally, its compatibility with various application tools, such as T-Bars and rollers, makes it an incredibly versatile option for any project.

9. Minwax Super Fast Drying Polyurethane Protective Wood Finish, Clear Satin, 1 Gallon

The Minwax Super Fast-Drying Polyurethane for Floors is a top-of-the-line product that offers superior protection and durability for hardwood floors. This clear top coat is specifically formulated to enhance the natural beauty of your wood floor projects.

One of the standout features of this product is its fast-drying technology. You can get more done in less time, as this protective coating doesn't require sanding between coats. Plus, it has an optimized drying formula that results in a faster recoat time.

If you're looking for a sleek finish for your wood projects, the satin sheen of this clear varnish is an excellent choice. It not only protects your wood, but also offers a soft, unique sheen for a modern, cozy, and on-trend look.

This clear coat is easy to apply thanks to its advanced anti-settling formula. It ensures less stirring, resulting in a smooth and even application for a beautiful, clear sheen.

When it comes to wood finishing and care products, Minwax is a brand you can trust. They have been inspiring consumers to "Keep on Finishing" since 1904 and offer a complete line of products to meet every wood finishing need.

10. Minwax 70001444 Wood Finish, Golden Oak Stain, Quart

The Minwax Wood Finish is an exceptional oil-based wood stain that provides beautiful, even color and enhances the natural wood grain in just one coat. It is a perfect solution for interior wood staining projects, such as cabinets, doors, and wood furniture.

What's more, this wood stain dries quickly, thanks to its special formula that enables it to deeply penetrate wood pores within 5 minutes of application. It resists lapping and dries in just two hours, making all your wood projects quick and easy.

The Minwax Wood Finish is also easy to apply. You can use a clean cloth or wood stain brush to apply the stain in the direction of the grain. After 5-15 minutes, wipe away the excess stain. The longer you wait, the richer and darker the color becomes. You can reapply coats for deeper color.

This natural wood stain has a beautiful, rich light oak color that provides a classic look to a wide variety of projects. It is a great choice for anyone who wants to create a warm, inviting atmosphere in their home.

Minwax is America's leading brand for wood finishing and wood care projects. They have been inspiring consumers to "Keep on Finishing" since 1904 by offering a complete line of products to meet every wood finishing need. You can trust the quality and durability of Minwax products for all your wood staining and finishing projects.

Best Varnish For Hardwood Floors FAQs

Are there any environmentally-friendly varnishes available for hardwood floors?

Yes, there are several environmentally-friendly varnishes available for hardwood floors. Traditional varnishes contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which can be harmful to human health and the environment. However, eco-friendly alternatives have emerged in recent years to address this concern.

One option is to use water-based varnishes, which contain lower levels of VOCs and are less harmful than traditional varnishes. They are also easier to clean up and have a faster drying time. Another option is to use natural oil-based varnishes, such as linseed oil or tung oil, which are made from renewable resources and contain fewer harmful chemicals.

It's important to note that eco-friendly varnishes may have different application and maintenance requirements than traditional varnishes, so it's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Additionally, some eco-friendly varnishes may not be as durable as traditional varnishes, so it's important to weigh the benefits and drawbacks before making a decision. Ultimately, using an environmentally-friendly varnish can help reduce the impact of your hardwood floor installation on the environment.

Can you apply the varnish yourself or is it best to hire a professional?

You can definitely apply varnish yourself, especially with the availability of DIY varnish kits. However, it's important to keep in mind that applying varnish can be a time-consuming and somewhat challenging process, especially if you don't have prior experience. If you're willing to put in the effort to learn and practice the process, then you can certainly achieve good results with a DIY approach.

On the other hand, if you're short on time or don't want to risk making mistakes, hiring a professional to apply the varnish for you might be the better option. A professional will have the necessary tools, skills, and expertise to ensure a smooth and flawless finish. Additionally, a professional will be able to advise you on the best type of varnish to use for your specific needs and provide maintenance tips to ensure the longevity of the varnish.

Ultimately, the decision to apply varnish yourself or hire a professional will depend on your personal preferences and circumstances. Just make sure to do your research and choose the option that works best for you.

Can you recommend a high-quality varnish for hardwood floors?

Yes, I can recommend a high-quality varnish for hardwood floors. One of the best varnishes available in the market is the Bona Mega Wood Floor Finish. It is a water-based, low VOC (volatile organic compounds) varnish that is widely used by professionals for its excellent durability, clarity, and resistance to wear and tear.

Bona Mega is specially formulated for hardwood floors and provides a clear, non-yellowing finish that enhances the natural beauty of wood. It is also easy to apply, dries quickly, and has a low odor, making it a great choice for both residential and commercial applications.

Another great option is the Varathane Ultimate Polyurethane, which is an oil-based varnish that provides superior protection against scratches, stains, and water damage. It has a self-leveling formula that ensures a smooth and even finish and is available in different sheens, including matte, satin, semi-gloss, and gloss.

In summary, both Bona Mega and Varathane Ultimate Polyurethane are high-quality varnishes that can provide excellent protection and enhance the natural beauty of your hardwood floors.

How does the best varnish for hardwood floors protect against scratches and wear?

The best varnish for hardwood floors is designed to provide a protective layer that helps prevent scratches and wear. It typically contains polyurethane, which is a durable and water-resistant material that creates a hard, protective layer on the surface of the wood. This layer acts as a shield against scratches, scuffs, and other types of damage caused by foot traffic, furniture, and other objects.

Additionally, some varnishes may also contain additives that increase their scratch resistance and durability further. For instance, some varnishes contain aluminum oxide or ceramic particles that enhance their abrasion resistance, making them more resistant to scratches and wear.

Moreover, the best varnish for hardwood floors will also provide UV protection, which prevents the wood from fading or discoloring over time due to exposure to sunlight. This is important because the natural color of hardwood floors can change over time, which can affect their overall appearance.

In summary, the best varnish for hardwood floors provides a protective layer that prevents scratches and wear, contains additives that enhance abrasion resistance and durability, and offers UV protection to prevent discoloration.

How long does the varnish last on hardwood floors?

The lifespan of varnish on hardwood floors depends on several factors such as the quality of the varnish, the amount of foot traffic the floor receives, and how well the floor is maintained. Generally, a high-quality varnish can last up to 10 years or more with proper maintenance. However, if the floor experiences heavy foot traffic or is not properly maintained, the varnish may wear off sooner.

To ensure the longevity of the varnish on your hardwood floors, it is essential to clean the floors regularly and avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage the finish. Additionally, placing rugs or mats in high traffic areas can also help protect the varnish from wear and tear.

If you notice that the varnish on your hardwood floors is starting to wear off, it may be time to reapply a fresh coat of varnish. This will not only protect the floors from damage but will also enhance their appearance and prolong their lifespan.

How many coats of varnish are needed for hardwood floors?

The number of coats of varnish needed for hardwood floors depends on various factors, such as the type of wood, the level of foot traffic, and the desired level of gloss or shine. Typically, most hardwood floors require at least two to three coats of varnish for optimal protection and durability. However, some hardwood floors may require more coats to achieve a desired level of shine or gloss.

It is important to note that the first coat of varnish is the most important as it penetrates deep into the wood and creates a strong bond. Subsequent coats help build up the protective layer, but the first coat is crucial for long-lasting protection against wear and tear. It is also important to ensure that each coat is applied evenly and allowed to dry completely before applying the next coat.

It is recommended to consult with a professional hardwood floor installer or refinishing expert to determine the number of varnish coats needed for your specific hardwood floors based on their condition, type, and usage.

Is it necessary to sand the floors before applying the varnish?

Yes, it is necessary to sand the floors before applying the varnish. Sanding helps to remove any existing finish, scratches, and imperfections on the floor surface, creating a smooth and even surface for the varnish to adhere properly. Without sanding, the varnish may not adhere correctly, and the finish may not look even and smooth.

Before sanding the floors, it's essential to ensure that the surface is clean and dry to avoid any damage to the sander. Sanding can be done using a drum sander, edger, and a buffer to achieve the desired smoothness and level of the surface.

After sanding, it's crucial to remove all the dust and debris on the floor by vacuuming or sweeping to ensure that the varnish adheres correctly to the surface. Once the surface is clean and dry, the varnish can be applied using a paintbrush or roller to give it a beautiful finish.

In summary, sanding the floors before applying the varnish is necessary to achieve a smooth and even surface and ensure that the varnish adheres correctly for a beautiful and long-lasting finish.

What are the benefits of using the best varnish for hardwood floors?

Using the best varnish for hardwood floors can provide numerous benefits. Firstly, it acts as a protective layer that shields your hardwood floors from scratches, stains, fading, and other types of damage. This enhances the longevity of your floors and saves you money in the long run. Secondly, varnish improves the overall appearance of your hardwood floors by giving them a smooth, glossy finish that makes them look brand new. This is particularly important if you want to sell your home or impress guests. Thirdly, varnish makes it easier to clean your hardwood floors since it prevents dirt, dust, and liquids from penetrating the wood surface. This means that spills can be easily wiped away without causing any damage to your floors. Lastly, using the best varnish for hardwood floors can increase the value of your property. This is because it shows potential buyers that you have taken good care of your home and that your hardwood floors will last for many years to come.

What is the drying time for the best varnish for hardwood floors?

The drying time for the best varnish for hardwood floors can vary depending on the type of varnish you use. Water-based varnishes generally dry faster than oil-based varnishes. On average, water-based varnishes can dry within 2-4 hours, while oil-based varnishes can take up to 8-10 hours to dry thoroughly.

It is worth noting that the drying time can also depend on the temperature and humidity of the room. High temperatures and low humidity can speed up the drying process, while low temperatures and high humidity can slow it down. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and provide adequate ventilation during the application and drying process.

It is also recommended to avoid walking on the freshly varnished floors until they are completely dry to prevent any damage or scuff marks. With proper application and drying time, the best varnish for hardwood floors can provide a durable and long-lasting finish.

What type of varnish is best for hardwood floors?

When it comes to choosing the best varnish for hardwood floors, there are several options available in the market. However, the most recommended type of varnish for hardwood floors is a polyurethane varnish.

Polyurethane varnish is known for its durability and long-lasting finish. It provides a protective coating that can resist scratches, spills, and stains, making it an ideal choice for high traffic areas such as hallways, living rooms, and kitchens. Additionally, polyurethane varnish comes in two types: water-based and oil-based.

Water-based polyurethane varnish is known for its fast-drying time and low odor, making it an ideal choice for people who are sensitive to strong odors. On the other hand, oil-based polyurethane varnish is known for its durability and resistance to wear and tear.

It's important to note that before applying any varnish to your hardwood floors, you must prepare the surface properly by sanding and cleaning it thoroughly. This will ensure that the varnish adheres properly and provides a smooth and long-lasting finish.

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