Timber Flooring Finishes: Which One is Right for Your Home?

Timber Flooring Finishes: Which One is Right for Your Home?

12th Mar 2024

Timber Flooring Finishes: Which One is Right for Your Home?

When starting a home renovation project, selecting the ideal finish for your timber flooring affects more than just looks; it impacts the harmony of your room's design, as well as preserving and enhancing your floors' inherent beauty. The proper maintenance underscores the natural beauty of the wood while protecting it from deterioration and blending in well with the overall theme of the room.

Canterbury Timbers takes great pride in offering a wide range of wood flooring treatments to suit any style preference. This guide explores the significance of choosing the right finish and offers advice to help you make the best decision for your house.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Finish

More than just a finishing touch, a timber floor finish provides an essential barrier against deterioration. It establishes the resilience of your flooring to wear and tear, which impacts its longevity, aesthetic appeal, and upkeep needs. The correct treatment can give your flooring a completely new look, showcasing its inherent colour and texture, or even changing it to better fit the style of your house.

Whether your room radiates sleek modernism, classic elegance, or a cosy, rustic feel, our collection guarantees that your flooring will not only complement but also enhance the aesthetics of your house, producing a unified look that suits both your taste and the architectural design of your property.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Finish

Your decision will be influenced by your aesthetic tastes and way of living.

Consider the amount of activity in your house, the amount of sunlight the floors will receive, and your desired maintenance schedule when choosing a finish for your timber flooring. Rooms with lots of natural light require a finish that won't fade or discolour over time, while high-traffic areas could need something more resilient. Additionally, consider the appearance you wish to get. Which finish type is your favourite: matte or glossy?

Types of Timber Flooring Finishes

A variety of finishes are available at Canterbury Timber & Building Supplies, each with unique advantages.

  • Polyurethane finishes: These are good for high-activity areas because they provide a tough, protective covering. Available in satin, semi-gloss, and glossy sheens.
  • Oil-Based Finishes: These finishes create a warm, matte finish that goes well with traditional or rustic decor by penetrating the wood to bring forth its inherent beauty.
  • Water-Based Finishes: Ideal for modern homes, they dry fast and preserve the original colour of the wood. They are very simple to maintain and have a mild smell.

Matching Finishes to Your Home

It's important to choose a finish that complements the design of your house.

  • Water-based coatings provide a clean, modern appearance for modern dwellings.
  • Oil-based treatments add depth and warmth to traditional settings.
  • Polyurethane finishes are sufficiently adaptable to fit into any style and provide a range of sheen levels to suit your taste.

Pros and Cons of Each Finish

  • Polyurethane Finishes: Advantages include moisture resistance and longevity. Cons include a prolonged drying time and possible discolouration over time.
  • Oil-Based Finishes: The benefits include ease of spot fixes and a pleasant, natural appearance. Cons include frequent maintenance and lengthier drying times.
  • Water-Based Finishes: Benefits include no yellowing, rapid drying times, and environmental friendliness. They can not be as resilient as polyurethane alternatives, which is a negative.

Elevating Your Space with the Ideal Timber Flooring Finish

Choosing the proper timber flooring finish will have a significant impact on the appearance, feel, and longevity of your floors, making it an important choice for any home makeover.With a vast range of options and professional assistance, Canterbury Timber & Building Supplies is here to help you make the right choice and make sure your floors are a perfect fit for your house. Reach out to us today and get started on the path to fulfilling your vision.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of timber flooring finishes?

The main goal is to shield the wood from damage and dampness while bringing out its inherent beauty and coordinating with the interior design of your house.

Are polyurethane finishes suitable for high-traffic areas?

Yes, polyurethane finishes are a good option since they produce a protective coating that's perfect for locations with a lot of foot activity and are extremely durable.

Can stain finishes be customised to match my home decor?

They can! Because stain treatments may be custom-matched and come in a range of hues, you can easily match or enhance your current home design.

How do I maintain timber flooring with different finishes?

Depending on the finish, maintenance differs. While oil-based coatings could require frequent oil reapplications, polyurethane finishes only need to be damp mopped occasionally. In particular, wood floor cleansers should be used sparingly while cleaning water-based finishes.

Do Canterbury Timber offer trade accounts and discounts?

Canterbury Timber are proud to offer trade accounts and pricing. To find out more and apply for a trade account, visit our website