Selecting the right finish for your hardwood flooring is important in protecting your investment and ensuring it looks great for years. A good finish will safeguard the wood from stains and damage while highlighting its natural beauty. Here's how to navigate your options.
Assess your lifestyle needs
Before diving into the different types of finishes, consider your household's lifestyle. Do you have pets, children, or high foot traffic? A more durable finish, like polyurethane, might be the way to go. Water-based polyurethane offers a clear finish and will not yellow over time, while oil-based polyurethane adds a warm amber glow to the hardwood floors.
Choose based on aesthetics
The finish you choose will impact the final look of your hardwood flooring. If you're after a more natural appearance, penetrating oils and hard wax oils can be an excellent choice. These finishes soak into the wood and harden, offering a close-to-the-wood feel that many homeowners love for their subtlety.
Consider the maintenance
Different finishes require different levels of care. For example, shellac and lacquer finishes are less common and can be more challenging to repair. On the other hand, modern urethane finishes are known for their ease of maintenance, as they resist scratching and are simple to clean.
Factor in the application process
Some finishes, like aluminum oxide, are only applied in factory settings and offer extreme durability. For on-site finishing, water-based polyurethanes are popular due to their lower odor and quicker drying time compared to oil-based alternatives.
The importance of professional advice
Always seek professional advice when selecting a hardwood floor finish. A hardwood flooring expert can provide valuable insights into which finishes work best with different types of wood and accommodate your specific needs.
Your experts on hardwood floors
Choosing the right finish for your hardwood flooring involves balancing your household's practical requirements with your style preferences and the level of maintenance you're willing to commit to. With careful consideration and professional guidance, you can select a finish that not only protects your floors but also brings out the best in your home’s decor.
Urban Flooring LLC proudly offers a wide selection of solid and engineered wood flooring options. Our showroom in Norman, OK, serves Norman, Moore, Edmond, and Yukon, OK.
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