Four Floor Finishes
amrit.p • March 17, 2021
There are four flooring finishes you can choose from: Matte, Satin, Semi-Gloss and High-Gloss
There are four finishes for flooring that give the appearance of a different luster or sheen on the finished wood: matte, satin, semi-gloss, and high-gloss finishes are available.
A glossmeter
measures the amount of reflected light from a light beamed at a given angle onto the floor. Thus, giving us our scale with matte on one end being the least glossy and reflective and high gloss on the other end being the shiniest and most reflective of all the finishes available. It is much like photography with the sheen of finishes.
What are the differences between the finishes?
The most basic difference between each finish is the way light reflects off of it. All of the finishes are very durable and withstand abuse. The matte level of sheen is the end of the low gloss finish, where you are less likely to see scratches, scuffs, or dirt on your hardwood floors because light reflects half a finish, and this is the lower reflection of light.
Matte:
Matte polyurethane has an extremely low luster/sheen level. Finishing floors in matte is a newer flooring trend. This flooring trend has some people concerned because it is very dull looking. Like a photograph with a matte finish, there is almost no shininess to the finish, described as bland and dull. The other end of the spectrum is a high gloss finish; just like a glossy photograph, it will show fingerprints.
Satin:
Satin finishes have a medium to low sheen/luster and hide dirt and scratches better than a gloss or high-gloss polyurethane finish. Matte hides the most. The satin finish is the middle ground of the sheen levels; it's almost the best of both worlds. The satin finish is popular today because it is easy to live with and maintain and does not appear dull or bland.
Semi-gloss:
Semi-gloss is the next option on the sheen/luster scale. This is usually as far as most people prefer to go when finishing the hardwood flooring in their homes for shininess. This makes the flooring look clear and beautiful, but it requires less maintenance and upkeep than a high-gloss finish. The semi-gloss finish is a bit shinier in oil-based polyurethane, than a water based polyurethane. Semi-gloss polyurethane is transparent, glossy, and not recommended for a household with pets or small children because you will notice scratches, dents, and all imperfections, even dirt on the floor will show up. Nothing is invisible on a semi-gloss floor; it reveals it all.
High-gloss:
The high-gloss has the highest luster of all of the finishes and is not often used for high-traffic hardwood floors. A high-gloss finish would drive you crazy if you thought about having it in your dining room with small pets and small children. Usually, we only see this installed on a beautiful exotic hardwood floor or a wooden floor border.
Floors for Less is excellent at hardwood floor refinishing. Call us
today for an estimate.
Upgrade your flooring today with engineered hardwood and enjoy a stylish, long-lasting solution tailored for Madison’s climate!
Stay ahead of the trends this winter by upgrading your flooring with stylish and practical options that suit Madison’s climate.
Madison, WI, experiences a challenging freeze-thaw cycle during the winter months, which can take a toll on your flooring. Fluctuating temperatures and moisture can cause floors to expand, contract, and even warp if not properly prepared. Here’s how to protect your floors and ensure they withstand Madison’s winter conditions.  Understand the Freeze-Thaw Cycle’s Impact on Flooring The freeze-thaw cycle refers to the repeated freezing and thawing of moisture in and around your home. This cycle can: Cause hardwood floors to expand and contract, leading to gaps or buckling. Lead to moisture seeping into tile grout, causing cracks or loosening tiles. Result in water damage to carpets and other porous flooring materials. Steps to Prepare Your Floors 1. Seal Hardwood Floors Sealing hardwood floors helps prevent moisture from penetrating the wood. A high-quality sealant acts as a barrier, reducing the risk of warping or swelling during temperature changes. 2. Use Floor Mats and Rugs Place floor mats at entryways to trap snow, salt, and moisture brought in from outside. Adding rugs in high-traffic areas can provide an extra layer of protection for your floors. 3. Maintain Humidity Levels Use a humidifier to keep indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50%. This prevents hardwood floors from drying out or expanding due to excess moisture. 4. Clean Regularly Dust and debris can scratch floors and make them more susceptible to damage. Sweep, vacuum, and mop floors regularly with appropriate cleaning solutions to maintain their integrity. 5. Inspect and Repair Grout For tiled floors, check the grout for cracks or signs of wear. Repairing damaged grout prevents water from seeping beneath the tiles, which can cause lifting or cracking during freeze-thaw cycles . 6. Apply Waterproofing Solutions For areas prone to moisture, such as basements or mudrooms, consider applying a waterproofing solution to your floors. This added protection minimizes water-related damage. 7. Use Non-Slip Rugs and Pads Winter can make floors slippery, increasing the risk of accidents. Use non-slip rugs and pads to enhance safety while protecting your floors. Benefits of Preparing Your Floors Longevity : Proper preparation extends the lifespan of your flooring. Cost Savings : Avoid costly repairs or replacements caused by winter damage. Enhanced Comfort : Well-maintained floors contribute to a warm and inviting home environment. To explore durable and winter-ready flooring options, visit Floors for Less. Let us help you find the perfect solution for Madison’s challenging winters. FAQs About Protecting Floors During Freeze-Thaw Cycles What is the freeze-thaw cycle? It refers to the repeated freezing and thawing of moisture during winter months. How does the freeze-thaw cycle affect hardwood floors? It can cause expansion, contraction, and warping if floors are not properly prepared. What type of flooring is best for freeze-thaw conditions? Hardwood with proper sealing, waterproof tiles, and moisture-resistant materials work best. How can I prevent moisture damage to my floors? Use sealants, waterproofing solutions, and maintain proper humidity levels indoors. Should I use rugs during winter? Yes, rugs protect floors from scratches, moisture, and salt brought in from outside. How often should I inspect my floors in winter? Regularly check for signs of damage, especially after extreme weather changes. Are waterproof flooring solutions worth it? Yes, they provide added protection against water damage and are ideal for high-moisture areas. Preparing your hardwood floors for Madison freeze-thaw cycle is essential to protect your investment and ensure your home remains cozy and safe throughout the winter. Contact Floors for Less today for expert advice and premium flooring solutions!
