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Know-How · Flooring
Buyer’s Guide to Clear Finishes
by GreenHomeGuide Staff, 11/21/06This buyer’s guide compares and contrasts clear finishes on their environmental and health qualities, and includes selection tips. Use it to find the best clear coating for your project.
For a list of clear finishes approved by our subject editors, see GreenHomeGuide’s Clear Coatings Directory.
| Material | Selection Tips | Pros | Cons |
| Lacquer | Acrylic-based lacquers are more durable for floors. Look for VOC levels below 250 g/L and avoid lacquers with xylene and toluene. | * Nitrocellulose binder is derived from wood or cotton | * High VOC content * Often contains solvents like toluene and xylene * High impact on indoor air quality * More susceptible to damage than varnish or water-based sealers |
| Natural Oils | Check the product’s MSDS for carcinogens arsenic, beryllium, chromium, cadmium and nickel, and probable carcinogen lead. | * Minimally processed * Derived from renewable materials (seeds and nuts) * Lower VOC content than lacquer or varnish |
* Requires 3–6 coats and long drying times * Must reapply yearly * Lower water and surface protection |
| Shellac | Avoid shellac made with methanol. For flooring applications, shellac is best suited for low-traffic areas. | * Derived from renewable materials (insect resin, corn) * Dries quickly, reducing duration of impact on indoor air * Low emissions when dry |
* High air quality impact during application * Low durability if left unsealed * Subject to wear and scuffs |
| Varnish | Look for varnishes with VOC content of 350 g/L or less. Urethanes are more expensive but more durable than acrylic varnishes. | * Most durable finish, so less frequent application * Best heat, water and chemical resistance |
* High VOC content * Highest level of VOC offgassing during application * Requires 3–4 coats and long drying time |
| Water-Based Sealer | Look for products with VOC levels as low as 50 g/L. Dries totally clear, preserving surface color. Lasts almost as long as varnish. | * Solvent is primarily water, reducing environmental impact * More durable than other finishes (except oil-based varnish) * Good water and scuff resistance * Cleans up without solvents |
* Environmental impacts of urethane or other synthetic binders * May contain toxic glycol ether solvents |