Subscribe
Smily Homes
No Result
View All Result
  • HOME DECOR
    • BEDROOM
    • BATHROOM
    • LIVING ROOM
    • DINING ROOM
    • KIDS ROOM
    • OFFICE ROOM
    • KITCHEN
    • SPACE ORGANIZING
    • DOOR
  • GARDENING
    • GARDENING IDEAS
    • PLANTING
    • BACYARD SAFETY
  • REAL ESTATE
    • CONSTRUCTION
    • FINDING HOUSE
    • HOUSE PRICE
    • SELLING HOUSE
  • HOME IMPROVEMENT
    • HOME SECURITY
    • LIGHTING
    • AC REPAIRING
    • FLOORING
    • GARAGE
    • HOUSE CLEANING
    • FURNACE SERVICE
    • HVAC SERVICE
    • PLUMBING
    • PAINTING
    • HOME RENOVATION
    • ROOFING
    • RECONSTRUCTION
    • SEWER REPAIRING
    • SOUNDPROOFING
  • SMART HOME
    • WIFI ROUTERS
    • CAMERA
    • DOORBELL
    • HUMIDIFIERS
    • AIR PURIFIERS
    • LOCKS
    • THERMOSTATS
    • VACUUM CLEANER
  • BUYING GUIDE
    • BLANKETS
    • AIR FRYER
    • BIKES
    • CLEANER
    • DISHWASHER
    • ELLIPTICAL
  • HOME DECOR
    • BEDROOM
    • BATHROOM
    • LIVING ROOM
    • DINING ROOM
    • KIDS ROOM
    • OFFICE ROOM
    • KITCHEN
    • SPACE ORGANIZING
    • DOOR
  • GARDENING
    • GARDENING IDEAS
    • PLANTING
    • BACYARD SAFETY
  • REAL ESTATE
    • CONSTRUCTION
    • FINDING HOUSE
    • HOUSE PRICE
    • SELLING HOUSE
  • HOME IMPROVEMENT
    • HOME SECURITY
    • LIGHTING
    • AC REPAIRING
    • FLOORING
    • GARAGE
    • HOUSE CLEANING
    • FURNACE SERVICE
    • HVAC SERVICE
    • PLUMBING
    • PAINTING
    • HOME RENOVATION
    • ROOFING
    • RECONSTRUCTION
    • SEWER REPAIRING
    • SOUNDPROOFING
  • SMART HOME
    • WIFI ROUTERS
    • CAMERA
    • DOORBELL
    • HUMIDIFIERS
    • AIR PURIFIERS
    • LOCKS
    • THERMOSTATS
    • VACUUM CLEANER
  • BUYING GUIDE
    • BLANKETS
    • AIR FRYER
    • BIKES
    • CLEANER
    • DISHWASHER
    • ELLIPTICAL
No Result
View All Result
Smily Homes
No Result
View All Result
Home HOME IMPROVEMENT FLOORING

What Kind of Floor Finish Should I Choose?

by Sophia Rose
February 23, 2023
in FLOORING, HOME IMPROVEMENT
best-hardwood-floor-finishing

Table of Contents

  • Can I Finish (or Refinish) a Floor Myself?
  • Popular Finishes for Hardwood Floors
    • Oil-Based Polyurethane Finishes
    • Water-Based Polyurethane Finishes
    • Wax Finishes
    • Acid-Cured Finishes
    • Aluminum Oxide Finish
  • Factors to Consider When Choosing a Finish for Your Hardwood Flooring
    • Type of Wood and Color of Existing Flooring
    • Traffic Levels in the Space
    • Desired Look and Feel of the Finished Floor
  • Summary

A hardwood floor finish is a protective coating that is applied to the surface of a wooden floor. It serves several purposes, including protecting the wood from damage, providing a smooth and attractive appearance, and preventing dust and dirt from accumulating.

The most common types of finishes for flooring installation in Ottawa are oil-based polyurethane and water-based urethane. Other finishes include waxes, shellacs, stains, lacquers, varnishes, and sealants.

Ultimately, the best finishing option for hardwood floors depends on personal preference and lifestyle needs.

Can I Finish (or Refinish) a Floor Myself?

Floor maintenance has never been an easy task. Finishing a hardwood floor yourself can be an appealing option for someone looking to save money, but it is important to note that there are several caveats. The most important one is the dust created during sanding.

Renting a floor sander may seem like an easy solution, but most people opt to hire professionals who have experience containing the dust and other debris created during the process. It is also important to remember that this isn’t a job you will want to do twice; it requires significant effort and time.

If you decide to take on this project yourself, make sure you have adequate supplies and knowledge of the process before starting in order to ensure the best results.

Popular Finishes for Hardwood Floors

Hardwood floors can be a beautiful addition to any home, but one important step in the process is selecting the right finishing option. Popular finishes today include urethane, oil-based polyurethane, water-based polyurethane, varnish and wax.

Waxing your hardwood floors is a traditional option but requires frequent reapplication to maintain protection from scratches or spills. With so many choices available today, it’s important to research each option before deciding which best fits your needs.

Oil-Based Polyurethane Finishes

Oil-based polyurethane finishes are another popular choice for hardwood flooring. Unlike water-based options, oil-based polyurethane provides a durable and lasting finish that is more resistant to scratches and wear.

These finishes can be applied in multiple coats to achieve a glossy, high-shine look that further highlights the natural finishing. However, oil-based polyurethane takes longer to dry, has a strong odour, and requires better ventilation when applied.

This type of finish also requires more maintenance over time than water-based options, so it’s best suited for floors with minimal traffic.

Despite its drawbacks, oil-based polyurethane provides an excellent protective shield against everyday wear and tear while still allowing the beauty of the wood’s natural grain to show through.

Water-Based Polyurethane Finishes

Water-based polyurethane is a popular choice for hardwood floor finishes due to its quick drying time and low odour. It offers a clear finish that magnifies the natural grain of the wood while providing protection from everyday wear and tear.

Water-based polyurethane is easy to apply without creating strong odours or fumes, making it ideal for use in homes with young children or pets. Despite its advantages, water-based polyurethane may not be as durable as oil-based options and may require periodic reapplication to maintain a protective shield against spills and scratches.

However, overall this type of finish can be an excellent choice for homeowners looking for an easy-to-use finishing option with minimal maintenance needs.

Wax Finishes

Wax finishes are another popular option for hardwood floors. Waxes provide a warm, natural look that is easy to maintain and repair.

Waxes are applied in thin layers, giving the floor a soft sheen while still allowing the wood’s natural grain and color to show through. This type of finish is also easily buffed and polished, so it can be used to bring back lustre over time with minimal effort. Waxes do not provide as much protection against everyday wear and tear as oil-based polyurethane or water-based finishes, so they may need more frequent maintenance if the floor has high traffic.

However, the wax provides an attractive and timeless look that will last for many years with proper care.

Acid-Cured Finishes

Acid-Cured Finishes are a great option for hardwood floors that need extra protection against scratches, scuffs, and everyday wear and tear. This type of finish is applied in thin layers, allowing the natural grain and colour of the wood to remain visible.

Acid-cured finishes also create a warm, satin-like sheen that can be buffed or polished over time. However, these finishes take longer to dry compared to water-based or wax options. Additionally, they require more frequent maintenance if the floor has high traffic.

Despite this, acid-cured finishes offer an attractive look while providing superior durability when properly cared for. With proper care and maintenance, acid-cured finishes will last for many years and provide an attractive finish for hardwood floors.

Aluminum Oxide Finish

Aluminum Oxide Finish is a durable coating that is ideal for hardwood floors. It provides superior protection against scratches, scuffs and everyday wear and tear.

This finish produces a high-lustre and glossy finish that highlights the natural colours of the wood, giving it an attractive look. Aluminum Oxide Finish is applied in thin layers with a brush or roller, allowing the floor to dry quickly without leaving any residue behind.

Unlike acid-cured finishes, this type of finish does not require frequent maintenance or buffing, making it ideal for busy households. With proper care and maintenance, this finish can last for many years and provide an elegant and durable finish to hardwood floors.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Finish for Your Hardwood Flooring

When choosing a finish for your hardwood floors, there are several factors to consider. Aluminum Oxide Finish is an excellent option as it provides superior protection against everyday wear and tear, producing a high-luster and glossy finish that highlights the natural colours of the wood.

This type of finish does not require frequent maintenance or buffing and can last for many years with proper care. Other popular choices include oil-based polyurethane, water-based polyurethane, and wax finishes.

Oil-based polyurethane adds warmth and depth to the wood while water-based polyurethane has less odour and dries quickly. Wax finishes provide a classic appearance but may need to be reapplied more often than other types of finishes.

Regardless of which finish you choose, make sure it offers the right level of protection for your hardwood flooring so it can look its best for years to come.

Type of Wood and Color of Existing Flooring

The type of wood and colour of existing flooring can play an important role in deciding the best finish for hardwood floors. Hardwoods such as oak, hickory, cherry, and maple are generally more durable than softer woods like pine or fir.

Darker woods tend to show scratches more easily than lighter-coloured woods so a robust finish such as aluminum oxide may be a better choice. On the other hand, if you have lighter-coloured wood, oil-based polyurethane will give the floors a warm and inviting look while water-based polyurethane offers less odor and faster drying time.

Wax finishes may work better on darker woods but may require more frequent reapplication. No matter which finishes you choose, make sure that it provides the right level of protection for your floors so they will look beautiful for years to come.

Traffic Levels in the Space

Traffic levels in the space can have a huge impact on the type of finish chosen for hardwood floors. For example, high-traffic areas like entryways or hallways may require a more durable finish such as aluminum oxide to withstand wear and tear.

On the other hand, if the space is rarely used then an oil-based polyurethane or wax finish might be best. The colour of existing flooring should also be considered when selecting a finish and darker woods tend to show scratches easier than lighter woods.

No matter what finish you choose, make sure it provides the necessary protection and durability for your floors so they will look beautiful for years to come.

Desired Look and Feel of the Finished Floor

The look and feel of a finished hardwood floor can be just as important as the type of finish chosen. For a modern, sleek look, consider a polyurethane or aluminum oxide finish that will give the floor an extra shine and protect it from daily wear and tear.

For more of a rustic look, an oil-based polyurethane or wax finish is a great option as these finishes tend to bring out the grain in the wood. If you want a soft sheen on your floors, an acrylic finish is perfect for creating a matte look that won’t show scratches easily.

No matter what type of finish you choose, always make sure it provides enough protection while still allowing you to enjoy the beauty of your floors.

Summary

Refinishing your floor( like changing tiles and installing new hardwood flooring) has several benefits. The most important is protection from damage and wear and tear, as the finish creates a barrier between the floor and elements that could cause harm.

Finishes also offer an attractive appearance, with options ranging from glossy to matte finishes. Additionally, finishes can help prevent dust and dirt buildup, making it easier to keep your floors clean. With so many different types of finishes available, you can find the perfect option for your home.

Finally to give an extra appealing finishing to your hardwood floor, you can also use fabulous.

Oil-based polyurethane provides a durable, glossy finish while water-based urethane offers ease of application with little odour.

Other options include waxes, shellacs, stains, lacquers, varnishes, and sealants. With the right finishing option for your hardwood floors, you can enjoy lasting beauty and protection in your home.

Share122Tweet77Share31
Previous Post

Why Invest in a High-Quality Bed Frame for Your Adjustable Bed?

Next Post

Everything About Winslow Homer’s Less Famous Paintings

Sophia Rose

Sophia Rose

Hello & welcome to my blog! My name is Sophia Rose and I love to talk about home decor, home improvement, and home fixes. Prior to this blogging, I was working as a home decor expert in Boconcept Home Designer LLC. I worked there for more than an year and then, I worked as a home inspection and plumber supervisor in Ariel Services, Inc. Talking about my skills, I clearly identify the home improvement fixes that a person needs. Also, I can do plumbing fixes, roofing fixes, and flooring fixes. In 2022, I decided to start sharing about my expertise through internet so that I can make home improvement easy and DIY. Please let me know if you have any tips that you think should be shared on my blog.

Related Posts

therma tru and masonite doors
DOOR

Therma Tru VS Masonite Fiberglass Doors [Expert Advice]

March 10, 2023
pebble tile shower floor problems featured image
FLOORING

10 Pebble Tile Shower Floor Problems [Personal Experience]

March 9, 2023
Moving Tips
HOME IMPROVEMENT

Why Do You Need Professional Help for Moving?

March 9, 2023
retractable_awnings
HOME IMPROVEMENT

What Are the Benefits of Retractable Awnings?

March 4, 2023
how to install ac
AC REPAIRING

How to Install a Split System Air Conditioner?

February 21, 2023
remove-scratches-from-mirror
HOME IMPROVEMENT

How to Remove Scratches From Mirror? [5 Most Effective Ways]

February 18, 2023

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Disclaimer

This website smilyhomes.com is a participant in amazon associate affiliate program. Earning from affiliate products is the main source of income for this site. However, please note that we never recommend BIASED products. We take research and product selection seriously.

Important Links

  • About us
  • Amazon Affiliate Disclosure
  • Contact
  • Privacy Policy

Popular Post

  • nespresso frother not working

    Nespresso Frother Not Working? [9 Fixes That Really Works]

    320 shares
    Share 128 Tweet 80
  • Spectrum Router Red Light? [These 9 Hacks Fixed My Router]

    316 shares
    Share 126 Tweet 79
  • Peloton Won’t Turn On? – [Troubleshooting Bike & Bike+]

    310 shares
    Share 124 Tweet 78
  • Nest Thermostat Not Cooling: 10 Fixes [That Worked For Me]

    307 shares
    Share 123 Tweet 77
  • Honeywell Thermostat Flashing Cool On? – [10 Fixes That Works]

    307 shares
    Share 123 Tweet 77

Recent Posts

  • Therma Tru VS Masonite Fiberglass Doors [Expert Advice]
  • 10 Pebble Tile Shower Floor Problems [Personal Experience]
  • 6 Critical Inclusions When Building a House
  • Why Do You Need Professional Help for Moving?
  • What Are the Benefits of Retractable Awnings?

Disclaimer

This website smilyhomes.com is a participant in amzon associate affiliate program. Earning from affiliate product is the main source of income for this site. However, please note that we never recommend BIASED product. We take the research and product selection seriously.

Recent Post

therma tru and masonite doors

Therma Tru VS Masonite Fiberglass Doors [Expert Advice]

March 10, 2023
pebble tile shower floor problems featured image

10 Pebble Tile Shower Floor Problems [Personal Experience]

March 9, 2023
Building a house

6 Critical Inclusions When Building a House

March 9, 2023

Popular Post

Can You Use Fabuloso on Laminate Floors? – [Do’s & Don’ts]

Nest Thermostat Not Cooling: 10 Fixes [That Worked For Me]

Spectrum Router Blinking Blue? – [Fix In Minutes]

Peloton Won’t Turn On? – [Troubleshooting Bike & Bike+]

Nespresso Frother Not Working? [9 Fixes That Really Works]

Is Your Nest Thermostat Blinking Red? [7 Working Tricks]

  • About us
  • Privacy Policy
  • Contact
  • Disclaimer
  • Write For Us

© 2023 Smily Homes - Home Decor and Home Improvement Blog

No Result
View All Result
  • HOME DECOR
    • BEDROOM
    • BATHROOM
    • LIVING ROOM
    • DINING ROOM
    • KIDS ROOM
    • OFFICE ROOM
    • KITCHEN
    • SPACE ORGANIZING
    • DOOR
  • GARDENING
    • GARDENING IDEAS
    • PLANTING
    • BACYARD SAFETY
  • REAL ESTATE
    • CONSTRUCTION
    • FINDING HOUSE
    • HOUSE PRICE
    • SELLING HOUSE
  • HOME IMPROVEMENT
    • HOME SECURITY
    • LIGHTING
    • AC REPAIRING
    • FLOORING
    • GARAGE
    • HOUSE CLEANING
    • FURNACE SERVICE
    • HVAC SERVICE
    • PLUMBING
    • PAINTING
    • HOME RENOVATION
    • ROOFING
    • RECONSTRUCTION
    • SEWER REPAIRING
    • SOUNDPROOFING
  • SMART HOME
    • WIFI ROUTERS
    • CAMERA
    • DOORBELL
    • HUMIDIFIERS
    • AIR PURIFIERS
    • LOCKS
    • THERMOSTATS
    • VACUUM CLEANER
  • BUYING GUIDE
    • BLANKETS
    • AIR FRYER
    • BIKES
    • CLEANER
    • DISHWASHER
    • ELLIPTICAL

© 2023 Smily Homes - Home Decor and Home Improvement Blog

  • HOME DECOR
    • BEDROOM
    • BATHROOM
    • LIVING ROOM
    • DINING ROOM
    • KIDS ROOM
    • OFFICE ROOM
    • KITCHEN
    • SPACE ORGANIZING
    • DOOR
  • GARDENING
    • GARDENING IDEAS
    • PLANTING
    • BACYARD SAFETY
  • REAL ESTATE
    • CONSTRUCTION
    • FINDING HOUSE
    • HOUSE PRICE
    • SELLING HOUSE
  • HOME IMPROVEMENT
    • HOME SECURITY
    • LIGHTING
    • AC REPAIRING
    • FLOORING
    • GARAGE
    • HOUSE CLEANING
    • FURNACE SERVICE
    • HVAC SERVICE
    • PLUMBING
    • PAINTING
    • HOME RENOVATION
    • ROOFING
    • RECONSTRUCTION
    • SEWER REPAIRING
    • SOUNDPROOFING
  • SMART HOME
    • WIFI ROUTERS
    • CAMERA
    • DOORBELL
    • HUMIDIFIERS
    • AIR PURIFIERS
    • LOCKS
    • THERMOSTATS
    • VACUUM CLEANER
  • BUYING GUIDE
    • BLANKETS
    • AIR FRYER
    • BIKES
    • CLEANER
    • DISHWASHER
    • ELLIPTICAL