Unfinished vs Prefinished Hardwood Flooring

Deciding between Unfinished Hardwood or Prefinished Hardwood Floor can be difficult. To help you decide which type of wood flooring is right for you home, here are some helpful information.  

Two Main Types of Hardwood Flooring

 

Wood Floors can be broken down into two main categories, prefinished and unfinished. Both floorings have their unique advantages and drawbacks, so it is important for you to educate yourself on each. Both hardwood floor types can provide a beautiful look to your home décor; however only you will know what’s right for your house.

When to choose Pre-finished         

•  If you are installing the wood flooring in an existing home, pre-finished flooring is generally easier to install.
• Pre-finished wood works better in areas that receive high traffic and heavy wear and tear because it provides a more durable finish.
• If you are trying to avoid fumes and a big mess, pre-finished flooring is cleaner to install.
• If cost is a concern, pre-finished flooring is typically less expensive.
• If you are installing the floor in a room with high humidity, pre-finished flooring resists buckling and warping and is suitable for changes in climate.
• If you are looking for a fast and easy installation, pre-finished flooring is the choice to make.
• If you are looking to use engineered wood, most come pre-finished.

                                                                   

When to choose Unfinished               

• When trying to match to an existing floor or trim, unfinished wood is generally easier to stain to match.
• If you are having the floors installed throughout your entire home, having the floor finished on site will provide a more uniform color and finish.
• If you are looking for an unusual wood species or specific plank width, unfinished wood flooring offers the most options.
• Unfinished flooring would be most appropriate if your home has historical significance or if you are trying to maintain the architectural integrity of it.
• If your floor is not precisely level, you may opt for unfinished flooring because it doesn’t depend on a precisely level subfloor the way a pre-finished floor does.

If you are still unsure as to which type of wood flooring to choose, call our office at (914) 438-8778 or fill out the form below to get a consultation with our wood installation professionals. Ask about the different types of wood flooring. We can bring samples of different finishes and wood types so that you can see them. Samples would allow you to visualize the flooring with the lighting in your home and with your furnishings.