Site-Finished Hardwood
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What is Site-finished Hardwood?
Site-finished hardwood, also known as unfinished hardwood, refers to flooring that is installed raw and finished on-site after it has been laid down. Unlike prefinished hardwood, which is factory-finished with stains and sealants, site-finished hardwood allows for customization and personalization to match your unique style and preferences.
During the site-finishing process, the raw hardwood planks are installed directly onto the subfloor of your space. Once the installation is complete, our expert craftsmen meticulously sand the surface to ensure a smooth, even finish. This step removes any imperfections and prepares the wood for staining, if desired.
After sanding, the hardwood is ready for staining and sealing. This is where the true beauty of site-finished hardwood comes to life. You have the freedom to choose from a wide range of stain colors, allowing you to achieve the perfect hue to complement your interior decor. Additionally, the application of multiple coats of high-quality finish not only enhances the natural beauty of the wood but also provides superior protection against daily wear and tear.
Wood Species
Our workshop and studio offers a wide range of wood, with both local and international species available.
Every species has a distinct cellular structure, resulting in unique physical properties and choosing a specific wood species can impart a unique character to your home so it’s essential to understand the differences before making a decision.
Hardness
A hardness scale can help you understand each variety’s hardness and resistance, as well as which structures it suits.
Stability
The environment, including humidity, can have a big effect on your wood, leading to expansion and contraction at certain times of the year.
Natural Color
Every species has a different tone and shade, from light to dark and everything in between. Make sure the wood you choose complements your furnishings and your own taste.
Grain Pattern
The decision to choose a wood species with pronounced natural grain patterns is subjective and varies based on individual taste. Have a think about whether you prefer natural and more random grain patterns or something more uniform and plain.
Our Selection Of Wood Species To Choose From
White Oak
Brazilian Cherry
Red Oak
Ash
Australian Cypress
Hickory
Walnut
American Cherry
Wood Grades
Wood grades refer to the classification system used to categorize hardwood flooring based on the appearance of the wood, including characteristics such as color, grain pattern, knots, and other natural features. These grades help consumers and professionals alike understand the quality and visual characteristics of the wood they are purchasing or installing.
*Grades may vary by species*
SELECT & BETTER
Exhibits very few imperfections or character markings. This grade is characterized by a uniform color with minimal knots or holes and longer, similar-length boards.
#1 COMMON
Wider range of light and dark colors on different boards and includes some knots and holes, as well as varying lengths.
#2 COMMON
Much greater variations in color with visible mineral streaks, and more visible and larger knots and worm holes.
EURO CHARACTER
Offers a broader range of coloring and natural characteristics than Select & Better. This grade allows for longer planks.
Benefits of Choosing Site-finished Hardwood
CUSTOMIZATION
With site-finished hardwood, you have the flexibility to choose the stain color, finish type, and sheen level that best complements your interior design.
SEAMLESS INTEGRATION
Since the finishing is done on-site, site-finished hardwood provides a seamless look without visible gaps or bevels between planks, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of your space.
DURABILITY
The application of multiple coats of finish enhances the durability and longevity of the hardwood flooring, making it resistant to scratches, wear, and moisture damage.
Stains
Stains are pigmented solutions applied to wood surfaces to alter or enrich their color while preserving the natural grain. In site-finished hardwood flooring, stains are applied after installation and sanding to customize the floor's appearance. This process involves cleaning and preparing the wood surface, applying the stain evenly with brushes or sprayers, allowing it to dry, and then sealing it with protective finishes. Staining offers endless color options to match your style, enhances the natural beauty of the wood grain, and provides a layer of defense against wear and tear. At Express Hardwood Floors, we offer a range of high-quality stains, expertly applied by our craftsmen for stunning results. Elevate your space with customized site-finished hardwood flooring.
