Is your wood floor looking dull and tired? A coat of paint might be just what you need.
Many homeowners find it hard to pick the right paint for wood floors. Choose poorly, and you’ll be doing the whole job again before you know it – wasting your time and money.
This guide makes your choice simple. We’ve tested many floor paints and found the five best ones for lasting wear, easy use, and good value. From living rooms to busy hallways, we’ll help you find what works.
Want floors that look good and stay that way? Let’s find the right paint for your project.
With the right tools and these tips, you’ll finish with floors you’ll be happy to show off to friends and family for years to come with these best paints for wooden floors.
Why Paint Wood Floors?
Painting wood floors makes sense for many reasons. First, it costs less than replacing or refinishing them. When floors have many scratches or stains that sanding can’t fix, paint covers these problems.
Paint also lets you change how your room looks without buying new floors. You can pick any color to match your furniture or walls, making your room feel fresh without making big changes.
For old homes with worn floors, paint can save floors that might otherwise need to be torn out. This saves money and keeps the old wood in use.
Finally, paint can make floors last longer by adding a hard layer that protects from daily wear. This means your floors will look good for years with just basic care.
Types of Paint Suitable for Wood Floors
When shopping for wood floor paint, you’ll find several options to consider. Each type has its own strengths and best uses, helping you match the right paint to your specific needs:
| Paint Type | Base | Drying Time | Durability | Best For | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Latex Floor Paint | Water | Quick | Low-Medium | Low-traffic areas | Low odor, easy cleanup |
| Oil-Based Floor Paint | Oil | Slow | High | High-traffic areas | Strong smell, needs paint thinner |
| Porch & Floor Enamel | Water/Oil | Varies | Very High | Indoor/outdoor use | Withstands temperature changes |
| Polyurethane Floor Paint | Mixed | Medium | Very High | Busy rooms | Built-in protection, water-resistant |
| Chalk Paint | Water | Quick | Low (without sealer) | Bedrooms, low-traffic | Aged, matte look, needs sealer |
| Milk Paint | Natural | Quick | Low (without sealer) | Historic homes | Non-toxic, flat finish, needs sealer |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Paint for Wood Floors
Selecting the right paint for your wood floors can make a big difference in how they look and how long the finish lasts. With so many options available, it helps to focus on these important factors when making your choice:
- Room Traffic: Busy areas need tougher paints; less-used rooms can use lighter options
- Finish Type: Matte hides flaws; gloss shows bumps but cleans better
- Drying Time: Some need days or weeks to fully harden
- Cleanup: Water-based (soap and water) vs. oil-based (needs paint thinner)
- Color Stability: Some paints yellow over time, especially oil-based ones
- Cost: Better quality often lasts longer and needs fewer coats
- Indoor Air Quality: Look for “Low VOC” or “No VOC” options
- Floor Condition: Old or damaged floors might need special primer
- Weather: Check that your paint works in your current temperature and humidity
Best Paint for Wood Floors
Finding the right brand makes a big difference in how your floors turn out and how long the paint job lasts. We’ve tested many options and narrowed down the choices to help you find the perfect paint for your home.
Here are five top performers that provide excellent results for most wood floor projects:
1. Benjamin Moore Advance
Benjamin Moore Advance is a premium waterborne alkyd paint designed to provide the benefits of traditional oil-based paints with the convenience of water-based formulations.
It’s suitable for various interior surfaces, including doors, trim, and cabinetry.
The paint offers exceptional flow and leveling properties, resulting in a smooth, durable finish that stands up to repeated washing.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Waterborne Alkyd |
| Sheen Options | Satin, Semi-Gloss, High-Gloss |
| Coverage | Approximately 400-500 sq. ft. per gallon (one coat) |
| Drying Time | 4-6 hours to touch; recoat after 16 hours; full cure in 7 days |
| Application | Suitable for doors, trim, cabinets, walls, and ceilings; ideal for interior woodwork |
| Clean-up | Soap and water |
| VOC Content | Low VOC even after tinting |
| Color Availability | Over 3,500 colors |
Pros:
- Provides a hard-wearing, furniture-quality finish.
- Low VOC content, making it suitable for indoor use.
- Easy cleanup with soap and water.
Cons:
- Longer curing time; may take up to 30 days to reach full hardness.
- Requires careful application to avoid runs, especially in high-gloss finishes.
2. Behr Premium Plus Ultra
Behr Premium Plus Ultra is a mid-range paint known for its durability and stain-blocking properties. It’s suitable for both interior and exterior applications, offering resistance to mildew and a washable finish.
The paint is available in various finishes, including flat, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss, and high-gloss.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Water-Based Paint with Primer |
| Sheen Options | Satin Enamel |
| Coverage | Approximately 250-400 sq. ft. per gallon (one coat) |
| Drying Time | 1 hour to touch; recoat after 2 hours; full cure in 30 days |
| Application | Ideal for family rooms, living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, hallways, and ceilings |
| Clean-up | Soap and water |
| VOC Content | Low VOC |
| Color Availability | Extensive color selection |
Pros:
- Includes antimicrobial agents to resist mildew.
- Provides excellent coverage with fewer coats.
- Offers a range of finishes to suit different preferences.
Cons:
- Longer drying time between coats compared to some other paints.
- Higher cost compared to Behr Premium Plus.
3. Rust-Oleum Ultimate Polyurethane
Rust-Oleum Ultimate Polyurethane is a water-based paint known for its durability and resistance to scratches and stains.
It’s suitable for high-traffic areas and provides a clear, non-yellowing finish. The paint is easy to apply and dries quickly, making it a popular choice for those seeking a reliable floor paint.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Water-Based Polyurethane Paint |
| Sheen Options | Satin, Semi-Gloss |
| Coverage | Approximately 350-400 sq. ft. per gallon (one coat) |
| Drying Time | Dries to touch in 30 minutes; recoat after 2 hours; full cure in 30 days |
| Application | Suitable for high-traffic areas like kitchens or hallways |
| Clean-up | Soap and water |
| VOC Content | Low VOC |
| Color Availability | Clear finish only |
Pros:
- Offers a tough, protective coating for wooden floors.
- Dries quickly, allowing for faster project completion.
- Provides a clear finish that enhances the natural beauty of wood.
Cons:
- May require multiple coats for optimal durability.
4. Sherwin-Williams Porch and Floor Enamel
Sherwin-Williams Porch and Floor Enamel is formulated for both interior and exterior wooden floors. It provides a durable, high-gloss finish that resists scuffs, stains, and wear.
The paint is available in various colors and is suitable for high-traffic areas.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Oil-Based Paint |
| Sheen Options | Gloss |
| Coverage | Approximately 400 sq. ft. per gallon (one coat) |
| Drying Time | 24 hours to touch; recoat after 24 hours; full cure in 30 days |
| Application | Ideal for interior and exterior wooden floors, including porches and patios |
| Clean-up | Mineral spirits |
| VOC Content | High VOC; ensure proper ventilation during application |
| Color Availability | Limited color selection, primarily traditional hues |
Pros:
- Resistant to stains and scuffs, maintaining appearance over time.
- Suitable for both interior and exterior applications.
- Provides a high-gloss finish that enhances the wood’s natural beauty.
Cons:
- Requires proper surface preparation for optimal adhesion.
- May need periodic touch-ups in high-traffic areas.
5. Farrow & Ball Floor Paint
Farrow & Ball offers a range of high-quality paints known for their rich pigments and durable finishes. Their floor paint is designed to provide a tough, washable surface suitable for wooden floors.
It’s available in a variety of colors and finishes, allowing for customization to suit different interior styles.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Oil-Based Paint |
| Sheen Options | Estate Eggshell |
| Coverage | Approximately 300 sq. ft. per gallon (one coat) |
| Drying Time | 4-6 hours to touch; recoat after 16 hours; full cure in 7 days |
| Application | Designed for interior wooden floors; suitable for high-traffic areas |
| Clean-up | White spirit |
| VOC Content | High VOC; ensure proper ventilation during application |
| Color Availability | Exclusive Farrow & Ball color palette |
Pros:
- Provides a durable, washable surface for wooden floors.
- Available in a wide range of colors and finishes.
- Enhances the natural beauty of wood with a rich, lustrous finish
Cons:
- Higher cost compared to some other floor paints.
- May require multiple coats for full coverage.
Maintenance Tips for Painted Wood Floors
Keeping your painted wood floors looking good for years requires regular care. Follow these simple practices to protect your investment and extend the life of your floor paint:
Daily Cleaning: Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dirt that can scratch the paint
Gentle Mopping: Use a damp (not wet) mop with mild soap made for painted floors
Avoid Harsh Cleaners: Skip ammonia, bleach, or abrasive cleaners that damage paint
Prevent Water Damage: Wipe up spills right away to prevent paint peeling
Use Felt Pads: Place under furniture legs to stop scratches when moving items
Control Humidity: Keep indoor humidity between 40-60% to prevent paint cracking
Add Area Rugs: Place in high-traffic spots, but use rugs without rubber backing that can trap moisture
Trim Pet Nails: Keep pet nails short to avoid scratching the paint surface
Touch Up Promptly: Fix small chips or scratches early before they spread
Recoat When Needed: Apply a fresh coat of paint every 3-5 years in busy areas
Conclusion
Picking the right paint for your wood floors comes down to knowing your needs and space.
Before you start, remember to clean and sand your floors well. This simple step makes a big difference in how long your paint job lasts.
Take your time with the process. Two thin coats often work better than one thick layer, and proper drying time between coats is key to a durable finish.
No matter which paint you choose, your floors will thank you for the care and thought you put into them.
With the right paint and proper prep work, your floors will look and stay fresh, making your whole home feel new again.
