Site Finished Hardwood Flooring
Pros, Process, Value & Sustainability
There is more than one way to install a hardwood floor. One that we like here at Texas Hardwood Flooring is known as “Site Finished Hardwood Installation.” This type of flooring approach involves installing raw hardwood planks directly onto the subfloor and then completing the sanding, staining, and sealing process on-site.
These days, most flooring contractors install factory finished flooring. Factory finished flooring is pre-finished (sanded, stained, etc.), and so the installer just places the flooring on the subfloor and is done. While site finished hardwood flooring requires more work on the part of the installation team, the advantages can make it an excellent choice for homeowners.
Pros of Site Finished Hardwood Flooring
This approach to hardwood flooring installation offers many advantages including, but not limited to:
- Customization and Design Flexibility – Because all finishing takes place on site, homeowners have greater control over stain color, sheen level, and finish type. It can be designed to match existing flooring or have a unique look, and can even have custom patterns, though these are a bit less common.
- Seamless Appearance – Pre-finished hardwood planks typically come with beveled edges. Site finished hardwood does not require these edges. Similarly, when sanding and finishing are performed on site, the resulting surface appears smoother and more continuous, with less individual differences between planks.
- Better Seal – Because the finishing takes place on site, *everything* receives the sealant, which fills the gaps in between the boards. That has the potential to improve the longevity of the flooring dramatically.
Factory finished planks are still very useful, but site finished hardwood installation has many advantages that make it a great choice – provided you can find the right contractor.
How Site Finished Hardwood Flooring Works
The process to install this type of hardwood is fairly straightforward but it requires a lot of expertise – far more than traditional pre-finished wood. You have to first prepare the subfloor, acclimate the wood to the space for several days to adjust to its natural humidity, install the wood (nailed down, glued down, or floating depending on the space), then sand, stain (if applicable), seal, and finish.
It requires a highly experienced team and excellent quality materials, but with the right company it is an outstanding choice.
Return on Investment
Site finished flooring is a long-term investment. It is considered to be far more durable than even traditional wood flooring, offering a better seal and more refinishing opportunities. This means that some of the extra labor costs may be offset by the long-term savings. Its premium finish also has the potential to increase a property’s value.
Sustainability
Sustainability is becoming increasingly important, and this type of flooring is considered to be a more sustainable option. Its long lifespan reduces waste, it can be ethically sourced, and – because the finishes are in control of the flooring company – products like Low-VOC stains can be used to reduce pollutants.
Overall Thoughts on Site Finished Hardwood Installation
As with all flooring options, site finished hardwood installation is one of many possible flooring choices. But for the right customers, it offers outstanding durability and appearance, while also extending the lifespan of your flooring. If you’d like to see before and after photos, or you’d like to learn more about site finished hardwood flooring installation here in DFW, reach out to Texas Hardwood Flooring today.
