How to choose the right finish for your wood flooring
When it comes to choosing the right finish for your wood floor, it can be quite confusing to understand, however there are only a few things to consider. The type of wood, the location of the flooring, and your personal preferences, are the three primary determining factors to consider.
Firstly, it is important to understand the different types of finishes that are widely available. The most common finishes for wood flooring include oil, lacquer, or Hard Wax.
Brushed and Oiled Wood Flooring
The most popular finishes for wood flooring within the UK is brushed and oiled. This finish is created by brushing the surface of the wood with a wire brush, this removes the slightly softer parts of the wood and leaves the harder, more durable parts exposed. The wood is then oiled to protect it from moisture and other environmental factors. Not only does having a brushed floor mean the hardest bits of oak are left on the surface, but it also helps to enhance some of the key characteristics that real wood has to offer. Another benefit of brushed and oiled finishing is that it has a natural, rustic appearance that is perfect for traditional or country-style homes. The oil also helps to enhance the natural color and grain of the wood, giving it a warm and inviting look. Additionally, the oil helps to protect the wood from environmental factors, such as humidity, helping to increase the longevity of the product.
Lacquered and Brushed Matt Lacquered Wood Flooring
Another popular finish for wood flooring is using a lacquer. Lacquered floors overall are very similar to Oiled floors. Lacquered floors typically tend to have a higher level of gloss on the surface than an oiled floor. However, you are looking at fine margins. With Lacquered floors there is a wider scope to play around with the gloss level on the surface, anywhere from a Matt Lacquer which looks most list an oiled floor, through to a high gloss which allows more light to bounce off the surface of the floor. Most commonly in Lacquered flooring you would come across standard lacquer or matt lacquered, These can also sometimes be brushed as per the above oiled floors. One of the benefits of matt lacquered flooring is that it has a smooth, less glossy finish that is perfect for modern or contemporary homes. The lacquer also helps to protect the wood from moisture and other environmental factors. Additionally, the lacquer is easy to clean and maintain, making it a great option for busy households. However, as lacquer is a thin finish, it can be more prone to seeing scratches appear, and remedial corrections can be a little more difficult.
Hard Wax Wood Flooring
Hard Wax is a traditional finish for wood flooring, and it can give the flooring a warm, natural look. However, it is not as durable or resistant to scratches and scuffs as high performance polyurethane coating (HPPC), and it will need to be reapplied on a regular basis to maintain its appearance. Hard Wax is certainly making a comeback as a finish, helping to improve the aesthetic appearance of vintage products, such as our Timba Floor Old Town Collection.
In addition to the types of finishes available, it's also important to consider the location of the flooring. For example, if the flooring is in a high-traffic area or a room that is prone to spills, a more durable and water-resistant finish like a lacquer would be a good choice. On the other hand, if the flooring is in a low-traffic area or a room that is not prone to spills, a finish like wax or oil would be a great choice due to its more matt appearance, enhancing the natural characteristics of the boards.
Lastly, it's important to consider your personal preferences. Do you prefer a more natural, traditional look for your wood flooring? If so, wax may be the best choice. Do you prefer a more modern, polished look for your wood flooring? If so, a lacquered finish would be a good choice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing the right finish for your wood flooring, it's important to consider the benefits and drawbacks of each option. Brushed and oiled flooring has a natural, rustic appearance that is perfect for traditional or country-style homes, but it requires regular maintenance. Matt Lacquered flooring has a smooth, glossy finish that is perfect for modern or contemporary homes, but it can be a little more slippery when wet. Ultimately, the best option for you will depend on your personal preferences, the style of your home, and your lifestyle. If you want a natural and rustic look and don't mind a little extra maintenance, brushed and oiled flooring could be a great option. If you want a smooth finish and don't mind the potential slip hazard, lacquered flooring could be a great option. It's also important to consider the durability and long-term maintenance of each option before making a final decision.