Choosing a Finish

Timber floor finishes may be oil based, composite finishes (mixes of an oil and solvent borne polyurethanes), solvent borne polyurethanes, and water borne polyurethane.

When choosing a finish it is necessary to consider:

• Wear and the amount of traffic on the floor
• Ongoing maintenance
• Board movement after installation
• The risk of edge bonding
• The gloss level of the finish – gloss, or low sheen
• Odour during application – Will you be living in the house while the work is being done?

A finish similar to that of fine furniture should not be expected, as timber strip floors are not finished in a factory environment.  Different pieces of flooring will sand differently.

The finished floor can be expected to have an even appearance free from heavy sanding marks, blooming or frequent air bubbles in the surface.

A minimal level of contaminants minor sanding marks and small depressions of the finish at board edges and in nail holes etc. may be visible.

Some finishes will yellow with time and if rugs are moved, a contrast in the depth of colour can be expected.

Read about > Types Of Finishes