Bona's oil and wax-based finishes offer a fundamentally different aesthetic to their waterborne polyurethane range — a more natural, matte appearance with a tactile feel that some clients strongly prefer. Understanding the difference between the two main options helps you recommend the right system.
Bona Hard Wax Oil
Bona Hard Wax Oil is a penetrating oil-wax finish — it soaks into the timber rather than forming a surface film. The result is a natural matte look with a soft, slightly tactile surface feel. It enhances the grain without adding the "coated" look of a polyurethane system.
Key properties:
- Penetrating finish — no surface film build
- Natural matte appearance — shows timber grain and texture
- Easy spot repair — damaged areas can be touched up without full recoat
- Requires periodic maintenance with compatible oil products to maintain performance
- Not as abrasion-resistant as a 2K polyurethane system
Best for: Residential floors where a natural, living-surface aesthetic is the priority. Clients who want easy spot maintenance. Less suitable for high-traffic commercial areas or floors with heavy wear expectations.
Bona 2K Craft Oil
Bona 2K Craft Oil is a two-component oil finish that combines the natural appearance of an oil with improved durability from the 2K chemistry. It penetrates the timber like a traditional oil but cures harder and provides better resistance than a standard 1K oil product.
Key properties:
- 2-component oil — mix before use, improved hardness vs 1K oils
- Natural appearance — penetrating, grain-enhancing
- Better durability than standard hard wax oils for higher-wear residential applications
- Still requires oil-based maintenance products (not compatible with waterborne refreshers)
Best for: Higher-end residential floors where the client wants oil aesthetics but needs more durability than a standard hard wax oil. Suitable for open-plan living areas with moderate foot traffic.
Oil vs Polyurethane — When to Choose Which
| Factor | Oil Finish | Polyurethane (Traffic HD / Wave) |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Natural, tactile, matte | Clear film, various sheen levels |
| Durability | Lower — better for lighter use | Higher — commercial-grade available |
| Maintenance | Spot repair easy, periodic re-oil required | Cleaner + periodic maintenance coat |
| Recoat | Easier — no full sand-back needed if maintained | Screen and recoat or full sand-back |
Both Bona Hard Wax Oil and 2K Craft Oil are available from Sand-Aid. Contact us for trade pricing from our Toronto NSW warehouse.