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Hardwood Floor Refinishing - Polyurethane vs. Swedish

The Drying Times

Why Dry Time on Freshly Refinished Hardwood Matters?

Beyond convenience,ย the dry time significantly impacts how your floors look and their overall durability. Rushing the process can trap moisture or dust, while waiting just long enough ensures a smoother surface and deeper finish bond.

As Dallas says in the video, โ€œItโ€™s not just about drying โ€” itโ€™s about curing. Thatโ€™s where your finishโ€™s real strength comes from.โ€

Polyurethane:ย 

Available in both oil- and water-based formulas โ€” is a popular, durable choice for homeowners. Itโ€™s easy to maintain and offers a subtle sheen.

  • Typical dry time: 6โ€“12 hours between coats

  • Full cure: 2โ€“3 days for water-based, 3โ€“5 days for oil-based

  • Pros: Affordable, simple to recoat later

  • Cons: Longer wait before furniture or rugs

Swedish Finishes (Conversion Varnish)


Swedish finishes, like Glitsaโ€™s professional-grade systems, are acid-cured and cross-linked โ€” meaning they chemically harden faster and last longer.

  • Typical dry time: 2โ€“4 hours between coats

  • Full cure: 3โ€“5 days

  • Pros: Exceptional hardness, rich glow, professional-grade look

  • Cons: Requires professional application and strong ventilation during cure

Glitsa Refinished Hardwood Floor
Glitsa Hardwood Wood Refinish

Expert Tipย 

โ€œA Swedish finish like Glitsaโ€™s conversion varnish dries to the touch quickly โ€” usually within a few hours โ€” but full cure still takes a few days. That chemical reaction is what makes it so durable.โ€

Whether youโ€™re scheduling your first refinishing project or considering a touch-up, knowing your finish type โ€” and its dry time โ€” can save headaches and protect your investment.

For more local insights on floor care and refinishing, visit Dallas Watson Flooring or check out Glitsaโ€™s website for professional product information.

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