If you’re looking at hardwood flooring for your home, you may have noticed that there are prefinished options available. You may be wondering if prefinished hardwood is a good option or if having your flooring company custom finish your floors may be better for your situation. There are pros and cons to both.
Pros & Cons of Prefinished Hardwood Flooring
Prefinished hardwood comes ready to install. The installation process itself takes about the same time as installation of unfinished boards. However, the big difference is that once it’s installed, it’s done. You don’t have to wait to walk on it. Your furniture can be placed back the same day installation is finished. Also, you’ll find that the finish stands up better to wear and tear because the finishing process takes place in a factory where more layers are able to be applied.
With all those benefits, you’ll find a few drawbacks of prefinished hardwood floors. First, it’s a bit more expensive than unfinished flooring. This is because of the added layers of finish. It also can’t be screened and refinished. Once it needs to be refinished, it will require total sanding and refinishing. And if you’re looking for a particular color or sheen, it might not be available in a prefinished option.
Benefits & Drawbacks of Custom Finished Hardwood
Custom is custom. You and your flooring company can create the exact look you want for your new flooring. However, the biggest negative to installing bare wood and finishing is the time it takes. Depending on what you want, you many not be able to walk on your new floors for a week or more. You may also be advised not to place your furniture for even longer. Additionally, the smell of the finish may linger.
You will be able to rescreen your custom hardwood for a streamlined refinishing process, and you can often fix small areas of surface damage. If you would like to mix and match different board widths or want a specific species of wood, you’ll likely need to choose a custom finish rather than prefinished hardwood.
Overall, you have more options when you choose unfinished boards for your new floors. However, if durability or the ability to use the space immediately is more important, then you might want to look at the options available in prefinished hardwood. Seer Flooring can help you with all your flooring needs and guide you to the best option for your home, budget and family. Call us today for your free consultation at (727) 469-7963.