Pre-finished
hardwood offers a virtually flawless finish, a harder finish
than site finished flooring, faster installation time, and
a much cleaner installation process compared to having a floor
sanded in the home. It is available in a wide variety of species,
widths, and colors. A slightly eased, or beveled edge between
the boards allows the flooring to be installed over imperfect
sub-flooring. Many pre-finished hardwood flooring can be re-finished
and/or re-coated as needed for a lifetime of beauty and service.
If a single piece of flooring ever requires replacement due
to damage, this procedure is simple and fast for a flooring
professional to accomplish with minimal blending of color
between new and old flooring with most species.
Site finished hardwood offers unlimited color and gloss choices,
and is sanded smooth so there is no beveled edge or small
groove between the boards. However, do not be fooled into
thinking a site finish “seals” the joints between
the boards permanently, as the natural expansion and contraction
of the floor throughout it’s life causes these joints
to open and close on a seasonal basis.