If you need to replace your floors, prefinished hardwood is a wise choice. This durable, attractive, and high-quality material is a popular option for homeowners. If you aren't familiar with prefinished hardwood flooring, learn more about it below. 

What to Know About Prefinished Hardwood Flooring 

What is it? 

This flooring type consists of real wooden planks that have been stained and sealed before installation. The planks are made from various types of hardwood, such as oak, maple, or teak. Then, they're sealed with an aluminum oxide coating to prevent scratches, dents, and other damage. The flooring comes in many different colors, sizes, and shapes, meaning it can be customized to match your interior design perfectly. 

How does this flooring differ from engineered wood? 

You may hear about engineered wood during your search for new floors. Unlike real hardwood, this is a synthetic product that only mimics the appearance of wood.

It also comes prestained, but it doesn't have the same level of durability or longevity as real hardwood. If you want real wood that's prepped and ready for installation, prefinished hardwood flooring is the best option. 

How can I determine which wood to use? 

You can evaluate the resilience of wood by looking at the Janka hardness scale. This scale measures how well different types of wood hold up to wear and tear. Highly rated options are especially resistant to scratches, dings, and dents, while woods that are low on the scale aren't meant to handle as much use. Oak is the most common choice for hardwood flooring, and it's rated between 1200 and 1400 on the Janka hardness scale. 

How do I choose a stain for my flooring? 

Consider the style of your home and its color palette. For example, if you have a warm palette with brown, red, or cream tones, you'll probably want to choose a warm finish for the flooring. Consider a deep brown or maroon to tie the room together. 

Cooler colors such as white, blue, green, or purple match nicely with lighter stains. A whitewashed or light brown finish will contribute to a cohesive look for your space. 

If you're interested in prefinished hardwood flooring, contact Monroe Floor Resurfacing in Rochester, NY. This contractor has nearly 40 years of experience installing, refinishing, and fixing various types of floors. They'll help you achieve beautiful results in your home. Learn more about their services online, or inquire about their availability by calling (585) 953-6926.