Selecting the right color and finish for your hardwood floor refinishing is an important decision. N-Hance can help by offering our professional recommendations for your upcoming project!
Each type of hardwood flooring needs a protective finish to protect it and also keep it looking its best. There are various levels of glossiness and durability, and our team can help you determine which is best for your flooring.
Choosing Your Hardwood Floor Finish
- Water-Based Polyurethane. This clear finish is easy to apply, dries fast, and leaves a smooth, high-gloss. It emits low odor and VOCs and comes in many options—like satin and semi-gloss.
- Oil-Based Polyurethane. For high-traffic areas, this is an excellent, affordable option. Do keep in mind that dry times are slower and it does emit VOCs. The color may also yellow over time.
- Moisture-Cure Urethane. If you’re looking for an extremely durable, tough finish, this one’s for you. It does emit very high VOCs and can be difficult to apply, so it should only be used on the right type of floors—like commercial spaces.
- Wax. This emits low VOCs and is easy to apply and touch up. However, its low-sheen finish isn’t very durable and may discolor down the road.
- Shellac. This is a fast drying, more natural, sustainable product. It emits low VOCs, but it can be finicky to apply and is very flammable.
- Penetrating Oil Sealer. This low-shine finish does a beautiful job at highlighting natural wood grain. It’s not the most durable and will need to be applied every few years, making it one of the most expensive options.
- Acid-Cured Finish. For floors made of exotic wood or in elaborate patterns, this finish is ideal. It’s highly durable and fasty drying, but it’s also highly flammable, emits high VOCs, and can be expensive.
- Aluminum Oxide. This low maintenance finish is the hardest and longest lasting. It’s great for high-traffic areas and comes in a variety of levels of glossiness. Something to consider is that it can be difficult to remove—in fact, your floors may need replaced if you want to change the finish.
Hardwood Floor Refinishing In Hampton Roads
N-Hance can care for your specific hardwood floors now and for the years to come.