There’s nothing quite like the timeless beauty of hardwood floors. They’re warm, they’re inviting, and they add a touch of sophistication to any room. It’s no surprise that in 2023 alone, the hardwood flooring market in America surpassed over 4 billion dollars!
If you want your wood flooring in Seattle to maintain its pristine look, especially with Seattle’s weather, choosing the right finish is essential.
At Five Star Hardwood Floor, we’ve dedicated over 13 years to mastering hardwood flooring in the Seattle area. We know that the right finish not only enhances your floor’s beauty but also protects it from wear, tear, and the elements.
At Five Star Hardwood Floor, we’ve dedicated over 13 years mastering hardwood flooring in the Seattle area.
We understand that the right finish not only enhances your floor’s beauty but also protects it from wear, tear, and the elements.
So, without further ado, let’s get into the best finishing options for your hardwood floors.
1. Oil-Based Polyurethane: The Classic Go-To
For a finish that’s as tough as it is glossy, oil-based polyurethane is a tried-and-true option. This finish gives your hardwood floors a rich, amber tone that deepens over time, adding character and warmth. It’s also highly durable, making it great for high-traffic areas like living rooms or hallways.
However, oil-based polyurethane has a slower drying time, so if you’re in a hurry, you might want to plan accordingly. But the wait is worth it—the durability and shine will protect your floors from scratches, moisture, and daily wear for years to come.
2. Water-Based Polyurethane: Fast, Clear, and Low Maintenance
If you’re after a finish that dries quickly and doesn’t yellow over time, water-based polyurethane is the way to go. It’s a popular choice for homeowners who want a clear, natural look for their wood flooring in Seattle. With its quick drying time, you can apply multiple coats in one day, which is a huge plus for anyone on a tight schedule.
This finish provides excellent durability but without the heavy shine of oil-based options. It’s great for kitchens and bedrooms where you want protection without a glossy appearance. As an eco-friendly flooring finishing option, water-based polyurethane emits fewer VOCs (volatile organic compounds), making it a greener choice.
3. Penetrating Oil Sealer: The Natural Look Lover’s Dream
One of the best finishing options for your hardwood floors is penetrating oil sealers. This option is for those who love the look and feel of natural wood. Instead of sitting on top like polyurethane, this finish soaks into the wood, giving it a soft, matte appearance. It’s perfect for highlighting the natural grain of the hardwood floor of your Seattle home, making it an excellent option for rustic or vintage interiors.
While not as protective as polyurethane, penetrating oil sealers are easy to maintain. You can touch up small areas without having to refinish the entire floor. But, because it doesn’t create a thick barrier on the wood, it’s not ideal for homes with heavy foot traffic unless you’re willing to reapply as needed.
4. Acid-Cured Finish: The Tough-as-Nails Option
Looking for the most durable finish available? Acid-cured finishes (also known as Swedish finishes) are incredibly tough and can withstand just about anything. This option offers a beautiful high-gloss look while providing maximum protection from moisture, scratches, and stains. It’s a popular choice for exotic hardwoods because it enhances the natural color of the wood.
One thing to note: this finish has a strong odor during application, so be prepared to air out your space for a few days. It’s a good idea to hire a professional wood lamination in Seattle to handle this finish due to its complexity and fumes.
5. Wax Finish: Timeless and Low Sheen
For a more traditional, understated look, a wax finish might be what you’re after. Wax has been used for centuries to protect wood floors, giving them a soft, low-sheen glow. This finish is perfect for vintage homes or anyone who prefers a less glossy, more natural appearance.
The downside? Wax requires a bit more maintenance than other finishes. You’ll need to buff your floors regularly and reapply the wax every couple of years. Also, it’s not the best option for high-moisture areas, so think twice before using it in kitchens or bathrooms.
6. Aluminum Oxide Finish: Maximum Durability for Busy Households
If your household feels more like a racetrack with kids and pets running around, you’ll want the heavy-duty protection of an aluminum oxide finish. This finish is often used on prefinished floors, offering unmatched durability that can last up to 25 years.
It provides a strong layer of protection against scratches, wear, and tear, making it ideal for busy homes. The downside? Aluminum oxide finishes can’t be easily refinished. Once they’re applied, they’re pretty much there to stay, so keep that in mind if you plan on changing your floor’s look in the future.
7. Hard Wax Oil: The Best of Both Worlds
Hard wax oil is a newer option that combines the durability of polyurethane with the natural look of penetrating oil. It forms a protective layer on the surface while also soaking into the wood to highlight its grain and texture. Plus, it’s available in both matte and satin finishes, allowing you to choose the level of sheen that suits your style.
It’s an excellent middle ground if you want a finish that’s easy to maintain, provides protection, and still gives your floors that natural wood feel. Unlike traditional wax, hard wax oil doesn’t require constant buffing, making it a low-maintenance alternative for busy households.
Want Hardwood FloorRefinishing? Call Five Star Hardwood Floor in Seattle!
Choosing the best finishing option for your hardwood floor is an important decision—it affects both the look and longevity of your wood flooring in Seattle. And if your floors have seen better days, it might be time to refinish. Five Star Hardwood Floor has been refinishing and protecting wood floor installation in Snohomish for over 13 years, with a range of services to keep your floors in top shape.
Not only do we offer affordable hardwood floor refinishing, but our other hardwood flooring services in Seattle such as waterproofing, are perfect for those who want an extra layer of protection against Seattle’s infamous rain.
So, contact us or give us a call at (425) 802-7517.