Why Aluminum Oxide is the Best Low-VOC Hardwood Floor Finish
Posted: December 9, 2024Author – Ryan Palma Owner/CEO Sustainable Lumber Co.
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Why an Aluminum Oxide Hardwood Floor Finish Should Be Your Top Choice
If you’re shopping for a new hardwood floor, you’ve likely encountered various finishes, each with its own pros and cons. One standout option, known for its safety and durability, is a hardwood floor finished with aluminum oxide. Here’s why this low-VOC hardwood floor finish deserves serious consideration:
What is Aluminum Oxide?
Aluminum oxide is a chemical compound of aluminum and oxygen, commonly found in nature in the form of sapphire and ruby gemstones. Beyond its use in jewelry, this compound is extensively utilized in industries for its abrasive qualities, notably in sandpaper. Ground into a fine powder, it is added to water-based finishes to create a low-VOC hardwood floor finish. This finish not only enhances the wood’s natural grain but also adds a robust, scratch-resistant layer.
Durability and Protection
Hardwood flooring finished with aluminum oxide boasts several layers (typically 5-10) of this protective coating. Each layer penetrates the wood, enhancing its durability:
Scratch Resistance – Daily wear and tear from pets, furniture, or foot traffic is significantly reduced.
Oxidation Guard – The finish prevents the wood from oxidizing (yellowing, darkening, or ambering over time), helping to maintain its original look and color over time.
Enhanced Longevity – This protective shield ensures your floor remains beautiful and functional for years, reducing the need for frequent refinishing.
Concerns About Off-Gassing
One common concern with flooring materials is off-gassing, where VOCs (volatile organic compounds) are released into the air. Fortunately, aluminum oxide finished floors are exceptionally safe in this regard:
Pre-Finished Flooring – These hardwood floors are UV-cured at the manufacturing facility, which means they emit very little to no VOCs after installation.
Site-Finished vs. Pre-Finished – Unlike site-finished floors which can off-gas for weeks and have a less durable finish due to not being UV-cured, pre-finished aluminum oxide floors are ready to use without these concerns.
However, if you ever need to refinish, doing so on-site can be challenging due to dust and fumes, but thanks to the durability of aluminum oxide, refinishing is seldom necessary. Instead, spot re-touching is recommended as a safer, less costly alternative to maintain the floor’s appearance.
Conclusion
Choosing a prefinished aluminum oxide hardwood floor means opting for a low VOC flooring option that offers a blend of safety, beauty, and durability. It’s ideal for anyone looking for a hardwood floor that looks great and stands up well to daily life and the test of time. Whether you have a high-traffic home or are sensitive to chemicals, aluminum oxide hardwood flooring offers both peace of mind and a polished, durable surface. For a long-lasting investment in wood flooring, consider the enduring benefits of an aluminum oxide finish.
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