Oil-modified urethane is generally the most common surface finish and is easy to apply. It is petroleum base with a blend of synthetic resins, with film forming ingredients it produces a durable surface that is moisture-resistant. It is a solvent-base polyurethane that dries in about 8 hours. This type of finish ambers with age, and comes in different sheen levels.

Moisture-cured urethane is a solvent-base polyurethane that is more durable and more moisture resistant than other surface finishes. Moisture-cure urethane comes in non-yellowing and in amber-coloring types and is generally available in satin or gloss. These finishes are extremely difficult to apply, have a strong odor and are best left to be professionally applied. Curing of this type of finish is by absorbing minute quantities of moisture vapor from the air, which causes them to dry and harden. The curing process is very dependent on relative humidity.

Water-based urethane is a water-borne urethane with a blend of synthetic resins, with film forming ingredients producing a durable surface that is moisture-resistant. These finishes are clear and non-yellowing and are different sheen levels. They have a milder odor than oil-modified finishes have and they dry in about 2 to 3 hours. Water-based urethanes are generally more expensive.

Conversion-Varnish Sealers (Swedish Finishes) are two-component acid-curing, alcohol-based sealers. Because of their country of origin, conversion varnish sealers are often referred to as Swedish finishes

Penetrating Sealers are solvent based; they spread on the floor and are allowed to penetrate. The excess sealer is removed with rags or buffed in with synthetic or steel wool pads. This type of finishes often have a color and can be used to stain and seal the wood floor. Penetrating oil sealers are made from tung or linseed oil, with additives improve drying and hardness.

Paste Wax is the oldest, and in some ways the best type of finish. Wax is the easiest to apply, least expensive, fastest drying, easiest to repair, and with proper care will survive forever. Wax should be applied over a penetrating stain; the finish incorporates in the wood so the wear applies to the wood, and not the finish. Wax is spread in thin coats for a surface protection after the stain and/or sealer is applied, then buffed to the desired sheen.

Varnish- Vinyl-alkyd varnishes have superseded natural varnish made from vegetable oils. This product was commonly used before urethane finishes where introduced.