When it comes to preserving hardwood floors, several finishes can provide long-term beauty and durability. Most options fall in the satin, semi-gloss, and gloss categories. The following guide discusses these hardwood floor finish options, their pros and cons, and which style is ideal to use in certain rooms. 

Gloss

A gloss finish will typically give your hardwood floors maximum shine. The sheen provides an elegant appearance and can transform spaces into warm and inviting environments. Given their high luster, this hardwood floor finish may require more maintenance because dirt, dust, and shoe scuff marks are more visible.

If your floor is in a high-traffic area, foot and paw prints will stand out, too. Consider a gloss finish in a room that doesn’t have a lot of surface use, such as a master bedroom.

Semi-Gloss

If your preference is shine without heavy-duty maintenance, a semi-gloss finish might be the solution. Hardwood floors with this application reflect more natural light, which elevates the grain and swirls in the wood.

A dining room or living room with lots of windows is ideal for a semi-gloss finish. As with the gloss option, semi-gloss tends to show dirt and grime more. While the finish offers durability, it may require additional professional upkeep, such as sanding, to preserve the floor’s luster. 

Satin

One of the main benefits of a satin finish is its ability to accommodate a wide range of hardwood floor styles. From oak and cherry to maple and walnut, this hardwood floor finish highlights the unique features in most natural woods and manufactured materials.

Its low luster can conceal dirt, minor nicks, and other imperfections. A child’s bedroom or the family room is perfect for a satin finish because the application will stand up to frequent room usage. Because the hardwood floor finish doesn’t have the shine of a gloss or semi-gloss, more frequent applications may be needed to restore the sheen. 

Old Reliable Floor Co is your trusted partner for top-quality hardwood floor finish services. Since 1949, the Cincinnati, OH-based company has served the area by providing durable and exquisite stain applications performed by experienced technicians. If your existing hardwood floors need restoring, let the professionals amaze you with incredible results. To receive a free estimate and schedule an appointment, call (513) 922-5598. Visit the website for information about the firm’s full lineup of services.