Wood Floor Finishes

There's nothing like a glowing, well-finished wood floor to provide an atmosphere of warmth and richness that truly makes a house into a home. Of course, that healthy glow needs to be maintained and occasionally renewed over time, so it's essential for new homeowners to know exactly how their wood floors were finished. Ask your home builder of the floor finisher if you know who it is, and note the type of finish and any model numbers so you can quickly source it when needed.

There are two main types of finishes for new wood floors. These are surface finishes and penetrating seals. For each type of finish there are several varieties, and each one has its own benefits and drawbacks. Surface finishes were once restricted to shellac, varnishes and laquer. These traditional finishes have largely been replaced by modern polymer finishes. The plastic hardeners in these finishes provide greater resistance to fading and discoloring, as well as being more water resistant. Laquer finishes are also extremely flammable until they dry completely.

Urethane and polyurethane wood floor finishes are composed of a blend of synthetic resins that cover and protect the surface of the wood. They're ideal in kitchen areas where their water resistant properties are especially useful. These durable finishes are available in a full range of surface textures from matte to high-gloss. Here are some of the more popular surface finishes and their properties:

Polyurethane - This is the most popular finish, as it ages well and acquires subtle amber overtones.

Urethane - The hardest finishes, urethanes may be water-based or moisture cured. Some have anti-yellowing ingredients added.

"Swedish" finish - Also known as "acid curing urethane," Swedish finishes are harder than polyurethane and are known for their fast drying and anti-yellowing qualities.

Penetrating seals are liquid finishes that soak into the wood and hardens, protecting it from the inside. The sealer sometimes contains a stain if the wood is to be tinted a different color. Wood floors finished with a penetrating sealer typically present a satiny finish that is enhanced by a coat of wax from time to time, while waxing is not usually recommended for floors that have surface finishes. There is a huge variety of waxes, polishes and other treatments that are available to maintain and appearance of your home's wood floors. Proper can go a long way towards keeping your wood looking good!