If you have hardwood flooring installed in your house, or if you already have wood floors and you get them refinished, workers will apply a finish to protect the wood and enhance its appearance. Choosing a hardwood floor finish can feel overwhelming. Here are some things you should know.
Types of Hardwood Floor Finishes
A surface finish creates a protective layer on top of a floor, while a penetrating finish is absorbed into the wood to prevent damage and enhance its natural beauty. Water-based and oil-based polyurethane surface finishes are some of homeowners’ top choices.
A water-based finish:
- Is durable
- Dries clear
- Is easy to maintain
- Provides a more natural look than an oil-based finish
- Has less of an odor
- Emits fewer volatile organic compounds
- Dries and cures faster than an oil-based finish
- Requires more coats during the application process
An oil-based finish:
- Has a glossier appearance than a water-based finish
- Can darken the color of wood flooring
- Takes longer to dry and cure
- Is a good choice for areas that get a lot of foot traffic
Which Hardwood Floor Finish Is Right for Your Home?
Choosing a hardwood floor finish is a personal decision. A finish that works well in your neighbor’s house might not be the best choice for your home.
Wood flooring is made from several species with different colors and grain patterns. The finish that you select should complement the wood’s natural characteristics.
Your hardwood floor finish must also fit your family’s lifestyle. If you have young kids and/or pets, durability should be one of your top priorities.
Do You Need Help Choosing a Hardwood Floor Finish?
It’s common for homeowners to feel a bit lost when selecting a new finish for their wood floors. The number of options can seem overwhelming, and people want to choose a finish that will provide the protection they need and impress their guests.
Barbati Hardwood Flooring has a team of experts ready to help. We have installed and refinished wood flooring at homes and businesses across Pennsylvania. We can help you select the best finish for your house. Call (484)354-8869 to learn more.