(BPT) - Key takeaways:
- Waterborne floor finishing systems are water-based and environmentally friendly.
- With low VOCs, waterborne options are better for indoor air quality.
- Waterborne finishes are durable and can last a decade or more.
- Always use cleaning and maintenance products made for your type of flooring.
Hardwood flooring is in high demand, adding style, dimension and value to a home. In fact, more than half (61%) of American homeowners say wood flooring was a priority when deciding to design or purchase their home, according to the 2026 Bona Floorcast report.
There are many reasons people choose hardwood flooring. It's a warm, natural material that offers near endless design and color options. It's also durable and timeless. With proper care, hardwood flooring can last for many years.
When it's time for an update, many homeowners choose to keep their hardwood floors, opting to refinish rather than remove the flooring material. Three-quarters of American homeowners would rather restore their existing wood floors than replace them, with refinishing offering a more environmentally responsible way to preserve a floor's natural beauty and extend longevity, the Bona report found.
Hardwood floors are a smart choice, but the finishing system you choose is just as important as the flooring itself. Finishes and sealers can impact the durability and integrity of the flooring, plus some options are more harmful to the home environment than others. Doing your research can help you determine the best system for your home.
Why flooring experts recommend waterborne finishing for hardwood
"Whether a new build, renovation or refresh, it's important to research the types of products used to treat your wood floors," said Matt Casey, Director of Professional Marketing & Bona Certified Craftsman Program, Bona. "When it comes to hardwood floor finish, the best choice is a waterborne finish."
To help homeowners decide the right option for them in 2026 and beyond, Matt answers common questions about waterborne floor finishing systems for hardwood.
Hardwood floors are a smart choice, but the finishing system you choose is just as important as the flooring itself.
What hardwood floor finish is best for indoor air quality?
Waterborne, sometimes referred to as water-based, is a wood finish system where water is the carrier for resin particles rather than oil or chemicals. Waterborne finishes are durable, sustainable and have low VOC emissions, making them better for the indoor environment. They are safe enough for homeowners, pets, plants and food to remain in the home during the entire finishing process.
Other hardwood floor finishing systems like acid cured (also called Swedish finish) and moisture-cured finishes, which use toxic ingredients like formaldehyde, and oil-modified are high in volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
What are VOCs in hardwood floor finishes?
VOCs are human-made chemicals present in many household products. Off-gassing occurs when VOCs and other chemicals are emitted from the manufactured products during use. While all hardwood finishing systems have some level of VOCs, waterborne are most often the lowest and therefore better for indoor air quality.
Acid-cured and oil-modified finishes have high VOC levels ranging anywhere from 275 to more than 700. Waterborne finishes are considered low VOC typically at 150 or less.
What labels and certifications matter for a hardwood floor finishing system?
Look for finishing systems with UL GREENGUARD Certification. GREENGUARD is a third-party organization that ensures products used for indoor spaces meet strict chemical emission limits.
For example, Bona Traffic HD is a high-durability waterborne finish that is GREENGUARD Gold certified. The GREENGUARD Gold certification has stricter criteria and considers safety factors for sensitive individuals like children and the elderly.
How durable are waterborne finishes?
Advancements in waterborne finishing systems mean they are more durable than ever. High-quality waterborne floor finishes can often last well over 10 years depending on use and maintenance. Plus, unlike oil-based polyurethane that will amber over time, the color of waterborne finishes tends to maintain a more natural look.
How long does it take for waterborne finishes to dry?
Getting back to normal life as soon as possible is a priority when researching hardwood finishing systems. A waterborne finish is ready to walk on hours before an oil-based polyurethane finish dries. For example, Bona Traffic HD dries within two to three hours before it can be walked on in socks, with a full cure happening in three days.
"Investing in waterborne finishing systems for hardwood flooring is a smart choice for homeowners," said Matt. "They create durable floors, allow for a range of color options and support a healthier home and environment."
Once hardwood floors are refinished, what's the best way to care for them?
Proper maintenance keeps floors looking their best and extends their lifespan. When choosing cleaning products, opt for a microfiber mop, which controls moisture better than a traditional string mop. Use a pH-neutral, residue-free cleaner formulated specifically for your type of wood flooring. The right cleaning products protect the finish, and keep newly refinished floors looking beautiful longer.
To learn more about the benefits of waterborne flooring systems visit Bona.com.
