A Complete Guide to Unfinished Solid Hardwood Flooring
If you’re in the market for hardwood flooring, you’ll find that there are two main types: prefinished and unfinished. Prefinished hardwood flooring is sanded, stained, and finished before it is sold. Conversely, unfinished hardwood flooring is unprocessed wood that needs to be sanded, stained, and finished on location after it has been installed.
Unfinished solid hardwood flooring has gained popularity because of its numerous benefits. One of the most significant benefits of unfinished solid hardwood flooring is that it is customizable. By using unfinished flooring, you can choose the precise color and finish that you desire, ensuring that your flooring complements your home’s design perfectly. Unfinished solid hardwood flooring is also more durable than prefinished hardwood flooring. This is because unfinished flooring can be sanded down and refinished several times over the course of its lifespan. This means that if your floors become scratched or damaged, you can simply sand them down and refinish them instead of having to replace them entirely.
When considering unfinished solid hardwood flooring, there are several things to consider. First, note that installing unfinished solid hardwood flooring takes longer than installing prefinished flooring. This is because the flooring must be sanded, stained, and finished on-site, which can add several days to the installation process. Another factor to consider is that unfinished solid hardwood flooring necessitates regular upkeep and maintenance. This entails regular cleaning, polishing, and refinishing as required to preserve the flooring’s attractiveness and longevity. While the maintenance requirements may seem daunting, it’s important to remember that properly caring for your unfinished solid hardwood flooring can extend its lifespan and keep it looking beautiful for years to come.
Secondly, unfinished solid hardwood flooring is more vulnerable to moisture damage than prefinished flooring. This is due to the fact that unfinished flooring is not sealed until after installation, making it more vulnerable to water damage. It is critical to keep this in mind and take measures to prevent moisture damage, such as using a moisture barrier and maintaining the proper humidity levels in your home.
Lastly, it is crucial to have your unfinished solid hardwood flooring installed by a professional. This is because the sanding and finishing process can be tricky and requires specialized equipment and expertise to achieve the desired results. By hiring a professional, you can be confident that your flooring is installed correctly and that the finish is applied evenly and without any flaws. You can read more on the subject here!
In conclusion, unfinished solid hardwood flooring is a fantastic option for those seeking a customizable, durable, and long-lasting flooring solution. While it may require more time and effort to install and maintain, the benefits of unfinished solid hardwood flooring make it well worth the investment.