There are many reasons to install hardwood flooring in your home, from its durability to its ability to increase resale value. However, the primary reason for choosing hardwood is simple: no other flooring option can rival its natural beauty. Hardwood conveys a warmth and character that no other material can replicate.
That said, if you’re planning to install solid hardwood, there’s still one key decision to make: should you choose prefinished flooring or go with the more traditional finish-in-place variety? Here are a few factors to consider when making your choice:
Prefinished Hardwood Flooring Installation Time
In many cases, prefinished hardwood flooring can be installed in just a day or two. You could have your carpet removed in the morning and be enjoying your beautiful new hardwood floor by the evening or the next day. On the other hand, finish-in-place hardwood flooring takes more time to install, as it requires sanding, finishing, and drying. If you’re installing finish-in-place flooring during a remodeling project, you’ll need to be prepared for not being able to use the room for several days—and possibly longer, depending on the humidity.
No Mess with Prefinished Hardwood Flooring
Prefinished Hardwood Flooring is DIY Friendly
If you’re handy with tools and enjoy saving money, installing prefinished hardwood flooring can make for a fantastic DIY project. In many cases, all you’ll need are a table or miter saw, a pneumatic or manual nailer, and a few common hand tools to get the job done. On the other hand, if you’re considering finishing-in-place hardwood, it’s best to call in the professionals—unless you’re an experienced woodworker.
Both unfinished and prefinished hardwood are beautiful choices, but unless you’re specifically seeking the traditional installation and finishing method, prefinished hardwood is typically the better option for most homeowners. It saves time, mess, and effort, making it the more practical choice for a stunning, hassle-free floor.