Choosing real wood flooring finishes
Lacquered finish
Lacquered finishes are probably the most popular type of finish for real wood flooring. This is because they are tough, water-resistant (to a degree) and require very little maintenance to keep the floor looking good. A lacquered finish is generally a blend of synthetic resins (sometimes known as urethanes or polyurethanes) which form a durable protective coating on the surface of the wood. This protective coating makes lacquered finish wood flooring suitable for use in bathrooms, kitchens and utility rooms. The types of lacquered finish available include high-gloss, semi-gloss, satin, matt and brushed matt. Maintenance of lacquered wooden floors is very straightforward and usually only requires regular sweeping or vacuuming, with occasional use of a special wooden floor cleaning product.
Matt lacquer
Matt Lacquer wood flooring is a popular alternative to the more traditional gloss wood floor finish. This relatively recent development in finishes is designed to give a very similar look to natural oil or waxed finished wood flooring but without the required levels of maintenance. Matt lacquer finishes highlight the natural grain of a wood floor and is highly resistant to scratches.
Brushed matt lacquer
Brushed Matt Lacquer is the most natural looking lacquered finish, highlighting the grain of the wood and giving the floor a very convincing natural look and feel, comparable to that of a traditional brushed and oiled floor. This has the advantage of minimal maintenance and high resistance to scratches.
Natural oil
Natural oil is one of the oldest finishes for wood flooring and if looked after correctly will last forever. It is the easiest finish to re-apply and the easiest to repair and periodic re-oiling will ensure the wood stays well protected and looking its best. This finish soaks into the wood and hardens to form a protective penetrating seal. Natural oiled floors are generally maintained with solvent-based waxes, buffing pastes or cleaning liquids specifically made for wax-finished wood.
UV oil
UV oil protects wood from sunlight and is generally more forgiving of scratches than a lacquered finish. As with natural oil, maintenance is an important part of a UV oiled finish to ensure that your floor looks and feels good for years to come. This is usually by the periodical application of a suitable maintenance oil, but after many years you may wish to sand down and re-oil or stain the wood.
Hand distressed
Hand-distressed or Hand-scraped wood gives a unique look and an aged appearance to the floor. Hand scraping is the most-common distressing technique, and although very labour intensive will result in a new floor that looks aged and full of character. Hand-scraped wooden flooring is available in both solid and engineered construction.
Brushed
Brushing the surface of wood highlights the natural grain and creates additional texture and character. The effect can vary according to the species of wood, and brushing is usually combined with other surface treatments such as staining.
