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One top 2026 hardwood floor finishing trend: Waterborne systems

Soon, waterborne floor finishing systems emerge as a top 2026 option, with Bona saying investing in them is smart for homeowners seeking water-based, eco-friendly solutions.
More than half of American homeowners prioritize wood floors, boosting interest in waterborne options, which the 2026 Bona Floorcast report notes are typically low-VOC at 150 or less.
Technically, waterborne systems carry resin in water rather than oil, making finishes like Bona Traffic HD walkable in two to three hours and safe for homeowners, pets, plants and food.
Experts note hardwood finishes affect indoor air quality through off-gassing, so GREENGUARD testing verifies emission limits, while proper cleaning and maintenance extend high-quality waterborne finishes beyond 10 years.
Traditional acid-cured, moisture-cured and oil-modified finishes still carry higher VOCs from 275 to over 700, so consumers should look for UL GREENGUARD Certification and GREENGUARD Gold, while homeowners seeking quick-drying solutions benefit from waterborne finishes.

Insights by Ground AI