A Primer on Hardwood Flooring Sheen

Hardwood flooring has long been a favorite of homeowners for its classic, timeless look and durability. If you are to invest in one, you have to consider several things, including the type of sheen. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of hardwood flooring, as well as some tips on selecting the right floor sheen for your home.

Hardwood Floor Sheen Options  

When choosing a finish for your hardwood flooring, there are three main options: matte, semi-gloss, and high-gloss. Here’s an overview of each:

• Matte Finish. A matte finish provides no illumination but still protects against wear and tear while allowing natural beauty to show better than glossy finishes. It is popular among those who prefer a more traditional aesthetic.

• Semi-Gloss Finish. This type of finish offers medium-level shine, which allows more light from natural or artificial sources to be reflected off surfaces. This creates an inviting atmosphere without being overly shiny. This is a perfect choice if you want something subtle yet noticeable when looking closely at it from certain angles.

• High Gloss Finish. It is the highest level of shine available, but also the most expensive. It provides maximum reflection from any angle, giving rooms an almost mirror-like look. A high gloss finish is ideal if you’re looking for maximum impact. Keep in mind, however, that dust and fingerprints tend to stand out much more on high gloss than on lower gloss finishes, so frequent cleaning will be necessary if you don’t want these imperfections dotting the surfaces of your hardwood floor.

Tips for Choosing the Right Sheen

Before settling on the right sheen for your hardwood floors, you have to take these things into account:

• Room Lighting. When selecting a sheen, consider the amount of natural or artificial light in the room. For instance, matte finishes work best in rooms with low lighting, while semi-gloss and high gloss finishes work better in brighter rooms.

• Traffic Patterns. High-traffic areas such as hallways and kitchens may benefit from higher sheens that are more resistant to wear and tear due to their glossy finish. In contrast, bedrooms can afford lower levels since these tend not to get as much foot traffic throughout day-to-day life.

• Financing and Budget. When it comes time to budget for your new hardwood floor, keep in mind that higher gloss finishes cost more than lower ones, so be sure you’re aware of what each type will require financially before making a commitment.

Envy Home Services is the trusted name in sunroom additions and other home renovation services in and around Arlington Heights, IL. To get started on your remodeling project, give us a call at (888) 847-7954, or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.