Different Finishes for Different Folks

Chris Hubbard

If you’re getting ready to install hardwood floors in your home—or to refinish existing floors—don’t underestimate the importance of the type of finish you choose. You need the right finish to complete the look you’re after. Your choice of finish will also determine how durable and scratch-resistant your floors are. Make sure you read all the way to the end. We have something new to share with you. 

Basic finishing options are:

Polyurethane

This is the most common choice due to its price and easy application. It typically has a glossier sheen. Some people feel it looks “plastic”; others love its shine.

Swedish

Unlike polyurethane finishes—which form a layer on top of the wood—Swedish finishes bond to the floor. This creates a natural look with great color and makes the finish extremely durable. Swedish finish is a very popular choice, and we have established our reputation over 40 years by offering our favorite Swedish finish system, Glitsa.

Water-base

This type of finish is a very hard finish. It also has the advantage of drying faster than most other finishes and a relatively lower odor level. 

Moisture Care Urethane

This is the hardest common finish and is highly water-resistant. It is ideal for high-traffic businesses, such as restaurants or bars.

Wax

This was the finish of choice for generations. It has lost much of its popularity—in part because of constantly having to re-wax but also because it doesn’t offer great protection against scratching. But there’s no denying the uniquely beautiful sheen that wax can bring to hardwood floors.

Natural Oil

A mixture of plant oils, waxes, and stain, this type of finish appeals to people concerned about carbon emissions, because it has no volatile organic compounds. Although the yearly maintenance is a drawback, it is a relatively simple process that can be performed by the homeowner. 

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Tung Oil

This finish gives wood a deep glow that enhances the natural color and grain. It is the most water-resistant of pure-oil finishes, but as with any pure-oil finish, it scratches relatively easy and requires frequent reapplication. Many people love its hand-rubbed look.

UV Cured

As promised, introducing the newest technology available in site-finished hardwood floors!!! A floor that can be lived on the day the last coat of finish is applied. Once the finish is dry to the touch (about two hours after application) a UV light is passed over the surface, curing it instantly. You can walk on it, move your furniture and appliances back on it, and even let the dog back on it immediately. We are very excited about this new addition to our line of finishes!

Choosing Your Finish

It helps to decide on the relative importance of appearance, durability, ease of maintenance, and cost to you. For example, many of the less-durable finishes are nonetheless popular because of their distinctive looks, which are just what some people are searching for. For others, a hard finish is a must. To make the best decision, know your priorities.

We’re glad to talk to you about the different finishing options, including your choice of gloss (high-gloss, semi-gloss, satin, or matte). From what we’ve seen in our years of service, we can tell you about how different finishes, glosses, stains, and woods work together. And we can answer questions about how each option fits your goals.

 

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