The finish of the wood flooring that you choose is extremely important. It can mean the difference between your floor looking and feeling natural, glossy or even distressed. A wood flooring finish can also slightly alter the texture of the surface of your floor.
All wooden floors must have a finish added to the surface. This is to protect the hardwood from damage and provide additional layers of strength. Most hardwood flooring is already pre-finished. This means that the floor has already had the finish added during the manufacture process. Alternatively, you could choose an unfinished floor. You will be getting the raw wood and must apply a surface finish once it has been installed. Here are some of the different flooring finishes available:
Natural Oiled Wood Flooring
Hardwood flooring with an oiled finish means that the natural beauty of the species of wood has been adequately protected using layers of air-dried matt oil. This maintains the character and attractiveness of the wood. This floor is ready to be used once the installation process is complete.
UV Oiled Wood Flooring
A UV oiled finish means that the oil has been cured with an ultra violet light. Consequently, more oil can be used, which makes it a stronger surface finish than natural oil. The character and charm of the wood and grain pattern is maintained, and it can be used as soon as it has been installed.
Brushed and Oiled Wood Flooring
A brushed and oiled hardwood floor is when the surface of the flooring has been lightly brushed. This exposes the natural qualities and charm of the wood without causing any damage. The planks of flooring are then protected with a matt oil. This floor is ready to be used once the installation process is complete.
Lacquered Wood Flooring
A wooden floor with a lacquered finish can be found with either a matt finish or a satin matt finish. The lacquer adds additional strength and protection to the hardwood whilst maintaining its natural character and charm. This floor is ready to be used once the installation process is complete.
Hand Scraped Wood Flooring
With a hand scraped wooden floor, the surface of the hardwood has been scraped, by hand, to add extra definition and uniqueness. The surface of the flooring planks are then protected with layers of a matt lacquer. This floor is ready to be used once the installation process is complete.
Distressed Wood Flooring
A distressed wooden floor has been intentionally aged by giving it a distressed and worn appearance. To do this, slight imperfections are added to the surface of the floor to enhance its charm and charisma. The flooring is then protected with layers of oil. This floor is ready to be used once the installation process is complete.
Unfinished Wood Flooring
An unfinished hardwood floor is the raw wood made into planks, without any protective layers of lacquer or oil added. It is really important that once it has been installed, the surface of the flooring is protected with layers of oil or lacquer before it can be walked on. Choosing an unfinished floor is perfect if you are looking to create a totally unique floor. You have the ability to add your own choice of colour stain and protective top layers.
