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To Install or Not to Install Prefinished Hardwood Flooring
When it comes to choosing great flooring for your home, hardwood flooring tops the list of many homeowners. Its timeless beauty, durability, and ability to add warmth to any space make it a popular choice.
Among the various types of hardwood available, prefinished hardwood flooring stands out as an excellent choice.
In this comprehensive review, we delve into its pros and cons to help you make an informed flooring decision for your home.
Top Things to Know About Prefinished Hardwood Flooring Before You Buy
There are two types of hardwood finishes: unfinished and prefinished. Here, we look at the latter.
Prefinished hardwood flooring is manufactured in a factory and arrives at your doorstep already finished. This means that the sanding, staining, and sealing processes have been completed. Its ready-to-install nature sets it apart from unfinished hardwood flooring, where these finishing processes are done on-site.
Now, the pros and cons of prefinished hardwood flooring:
The Pros of Prefinished Hardwood Flooring
Prefinished hardwood flooring offers several advantages that make it an attractive option for homeowners.
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Time and Convenience
Two of the primary advantages of prefinished hardwood flooring are the time and convenience it offers. With the finishing processes completed in a controlled factory environment, installation becomes faster and easier.
There is no need to wait for sanding, staining, and sealing on-site, which can cause delays and disrupt your daily routine. However, they still require acclimatization prior to installation. Learn top acclimatization tips right here.
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Enhanced Durability
Prefinished hardwood flooring undergoes a rigorous finishing process that includes multiple coats of sealant, resulting in superior durability. The factory finish provides an extra layer of protection against scratches, moisture, and general wear and tear. This makes prefinished hardwood flooring an ideal choice for high-traffic areas. Always consider your lifestyle when choosing your home’s flooring.
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Wide Range of Styles and Finishes
Prefinished hardwood flooring comes in a vast array of styles, colours, and finishes, allowing you to find the perfect match for your home’s aesthetic. Whether you prefer a sleek and modern look or a rustic or vintage charm, there is a prefinished hardwood flooring option that will complement your interior design effortlessly.
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Consistent Quality
With prefinished hardwood flooring, you can expect consistent quality throughout your entire floor. Since the finishing processes are done in a controlled factory environment, each plank is finished with precision, resulting in a uniform appearance. This consistency adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to your living spaces.
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Immediate Use
Unlike unfinished hardwood flooring, which requires curing time after installation, prefinished hardwood flooring is ready for immediate use. However, it is best to wait 12–24 hours before moving furniture. This feature is particularly beneficial if you are on a tight schedule.
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Easy Maintenance
Maintaining prefinished hardwood flooring is a breeze. The factory-applied finish makes the surface more resistant to stains and spills, reducing the risk of permanent damage. Regular sweeping and occasional mopping with a manufacturer-recommended hardwood floor cleaner is usually all it takes to keep your prefinished hardwood flooring looking its best.
The Cons of Prefinished Hardwood Flooring
While prefinished hardwood flooring offers numerous advantages, it is essential to consider its drawbacks as well. Here are some cons you should keep in mind:
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Limited Customization Options
Unlike unfinished hardwood flooring, prefinished options offer limited customization possibilities. You have fewer options to customize the flooring to your precise preferences because the colour, sheen, and texture are predetermined by the manufacturer. If you have a specific vision in mind and value complete creative control, unfinished hardwood flooring is a more suitable choice.
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Potential for Visible Seams
Prefinished hardwood flooring is typically available in standard plank sizes, which may result in visible seams between the planks. While manufacturers take measures to minimize this issue, it is important to note that the seams may still be noticeable, especially in larger rooms. If you prefer a seamless and continuous look, you might need to explore other flooring options or consider using area rugs to minimize the visual impact of the seams.
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Higher Cost
Compared to unfinished hardwood flooring, prefinished options often come with a higher price tag. The additional costs associated with the factory finishing processes and the convenience they offer contribute to the higher price point. However, it is worth considering the long-term value and durability that prefinished hardwood flooring provides, which can outweigh the initial investment.
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Inconsistent Colour Match
If you need to extend your prefinished hardwood flooring to additional areas or rooms in the future, achieving a seamless colour match can be challenging. Since prefinished options come in specific finishes and colours, it can be difficult to find an exact match if you are adding more flooring later. This consideration is particularly important if you value uniformity throughout your home’s flooring.
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Difficult Repairs
In the event of significant damage to a prefinished hardwood floor, repairs can be more challenging. With unfinished hardwood flooring, damaged planks can be replaced individually, sanded, and refinished to seamlessly blend with the surrounding floor. However, with prefinished flooring, repairs often require removing and replacing larger sections of the floor to maintain consistency in colour and finish.
Prefinished hardwood flooring offers numerous advantages that make it a popular choice for homeowners. The time and convenience it provides, along with enhanced durability, a wide range of styles, and consistent quality, make it a compelling option for those seeking a beautiful and long-lasting flooring solution. Additionally, the immediate use and easy maintenance of prefinished hardwood flooring add to its appeal. Get in touch with your nearest flooring store and get started on your project.
