The decision to add new hardwood flooring to your home requires you to make a number of decisions, including the choice between pre-finished or unfinished wood. Floor refinishing is one of the final steps in installation and can either be performed ahead of time or on-site after the wood has been set. By understanding each process and working with a flooring company you trust, you can determine which is best for you.

Pros & Cons of Pre-Finished Flooring

Pros

For most, the biggest concern surrounding floor refinishing is how long the process will take and when homeowners can move their furniture back their original places. The best way to tackle this issue is to choose pre-finished wood, as the planks are stained and coated beforehand, so you can walk on the surface as soon as the boards are in place. If you opt for unfinished wood, the boards must be stained and coated with polyurethane after they are laid down. This can take a significant amount of time, as you must wait for the initial clear coat to dry and cure before putting the furniture back in the room.

By choosing pre-finished flooring, you can also eliminate the safety risk that comes from toxic vapors emitted by polyurethane during installation. 

Cons

While there is much to be said about options for pre-finished boards, there are a few challenges that should be considered beforehand. Because the boards are sealed off-site, there is bound to be a seam between each piece that might be prone to collecting dust or grime over time. Luckily, this can be easily avoided with consistent cleaning. Homeowners should also keep in mind that pre-finished hardwood can only be refinished once (if you’re lucky for engineered) before the material gets too thin and must be replaced, unless it is solid 3/4” thick. Finally, some homeowners may not prefer the slightly-rounded, beveled edges that are consistent with pre-finished flooring.

The choice between pre-finished and finished wood depends largely on your personal preference, schedule, budget, and stylistic preferences. To decide which is right for your space, talk to your floor refinishing experts about their recommendations. 

Ready to add new floors to your home in Springfield, MA? Let the team at JT’s Floor Refinishing give you a hand. For the last 25 years, they have provided comprehensive floor installation, repair, and floor refinishing services. Using effective and eco-friendly techniques, their team of contractors will bring your floors back to life. Visit them online for more help or reach out at (413) 788-6149.