The benefits of prefinished hardwood flooring

Deciding between prefinished or unfinished hardwood floors will be one of your significant decisions when buying hardwood flooring in Woodstock. Until about 15 years ago, your only choice was to get hardwood floors in an unfinished state and then have it done as part of the installation process. Now it can also be done in the factory. While there are benefits to both, it comes down to your personal preference.

For one thing, with a prefinished wood floor, you’ll know what you're getting, with samples in hand, so you can start the coordination process while the floors are being done.  Since they will be finished in a controlled factory atmosphere, you won’t need to worry about dust or other particles getting stuck in the finish. If, however, you go with an unfinished floor, you will have a wider variety of colors, gloss, and shades. Here are some reasons why factory prefinished may be desirable.

Prefinished can be more time-efficient

When done as part of the installation, several coats of stain and the clear top finish protect the floor.  Each coat must be thoroughly dry before the next one is applied, or you'll end up with a bumpy surface.  Drying times vary based on air circulation and temperature; a water-based finish can take just hours to dry, while oil-based ones can take longer yet.  It can add three to five days to an installation process.

Faster, easier, and more durable

At the factory, a clear aluminum oxide finish is used.  This is a clear, ultra-strong coating that results in stronger boards. It not only makes the installation process faster, without sanding or staining being necessary, but you can walk on the floor immediately.

Are you still having trouble thinking about whether to go with refinished or unfinished hardwood flooring?  Let the experts at Cherokee Floor Covering help you decide so you can make the best decision for your home in Woodstock, Marietta, Canton, Acworth, or Kennesaw, GA.  Our showroom is in the Atlanta suburb of Woodstock, and we provide free hardwood flooring quotes.