Even after a new coat of paint, window treatments, or furniture set, your renovation may feel incomplete without a hardwood floor installation. Once you’ve decided on a wood type and stain color, you’ll need to zero in on the perfect finish. Use this quick guide to consider three popular options and how they’ll suit your interior design.

3 Types of Hardwood Floor Finishes

1. Wax

This finish is recommended for homeowners who crave a more matte, rustic look to their hardwood floors. Wax is more of an old-world, traditional finishing method, and isn’t as shiny as more modern finishes. Over time, wax may cause hardwood to yellow or darken. Use this finish in rooms with Shaker-style or Colonial-era furnishings in warm colors like golden yellow, olive green, or barn red.

2. Water-Based Polyurethane

If you want to show off the natural shade of your hardwood floors and add a bit of shine, opt for water-based polyurethane. This plastic finish is crystal clear, so you won’t see any yellowing over time. It’s often used on naturally beautiful shades of hardwood, such as mahogany or cherry. Once the finish cures, it’s easy to maintain—you’ll just need to sweep and dry mop the floors every few weeks.

3. Penetrating Oil

This sealant is made from natural materials, which means it doesn’t release harmful VOCs, and is safer for kids and pets. It doesn’t provide drastic shine, but it still accentuates the wood’s natural grain, which is why it’s so popular in historic homes with oak floors. While penetrating oil is easy to apply, it will wear away with foot traffic, so you’ll need to set aside time to reapply it every few years.

If you’re still stumped on which finish to choose, reach out to Georgia Direct Carpet for guidance. This Hamilton, OH, team has over a century of combined experience refinishing hardwood floors. Their staff members can help you choose the ideal material for your lifestyle, wood type, and aesthetic preferences. To learn more about their offerings, including carpet and tile, visit the website, or call (513) 894-7700 today to inquire about their inventory.