When selecting hardwood flooring, one of the critical decisions you'll face is whether to opt for prefinished or site-finished hardwood. Each has its merits and limitations, which we will dissect to help you make an informed choice.
Installation time and convenience
Prefinished hardwood flooring comes from the factory already sanded, sealed, and finished. This means the installation process is typically quicker, and there?s no need for sanding or finishing on-site, which can save valuable time and reduce the mess in your home.
Site-finished hardwood, on the other hand, is installed in its raw state and then finished on-site. This process can be more time-consuming and may include days when the area is off-limits due to sanding and drying times.
Customization and uniformity
Site-finished wood floors offer a level of customization that prefinished ones can't match. Since the finishing occurs in your home, you have the opportunity to choose the exact stain and finish you want, ensuring a consistent and uniform look across your entire floor.
With prefinished hardwood flooring, there may be slight variations between boards due to the individual treatment they receive during manufacturing.
Durability and repair
Prefinished hardwood floors often come with very durable factory-applied finishes that are backed by extended warranties. These finishes are tough and designed to withstand wear and tear.
Site-finished wood floors may not have as robust an initial finish, but they can be sanded down and refinished multiple times over the years, potentially extending the life of your floors beyond that of prefinished options.
Cost considerations
Prefinished hardwood flooring tends to be less expensive in terms of initial installation costs because it eliminates the labor of sanding and finishing. However, site-finished floors might have a cost advantage in the long run due to their longevity and ability to be refinished.
Visit us for high-end hardwood flooring in Santa Ana, CA
The choice between prefinished and site-finished hardwood flooring depends on your priorities. If you value speed and less on-site labor, prefinished is the way to go. If customization and the option for future refinishing are more your style, site-finished may be your best bet. Whichever you choose, both options can add enduring beauty and value to your home.
Visit Sharon and Son's Flooring & Cabinets for your flooring solutions. Our showroom in Santa Ana, CA, serves Santa Ana, Costa Mesa, Huntington Beach, and Fountain Valley, CA.
-
2 mins
