Hardwood flooring instantly changes the mood of a room. It’s classic, clean, and durable. But when you’re picking your floors, there’s a big question: prefinished or unfinished? You're not alone if you’ve found yourself stuck between the two. I’ve seen this choice stump homeowners more times than I can count. We break it down below.
What is prefinished hardwood flooring?
Prefinished hardwood is ready to install right out of the box. It’s already sanded, stained, and sealed in the factory. That means less mess, no fumes, and a faster installation. You pick your color and finish, and boom—it’s good to go.
The best part? You can walk on it the same day it’s installed. That’s a huge plus if you’re living in the house during a remodel or just want it done and over with.
What is unfinished hardwood flooring?
Unfinished hardwood is raw wood. It gets sanded, stained, and sealed on-site. So yes, it takes longer, and yes, there’s dust. But here’s the upside: full customization. You can choose any stain color you want. You also get a smooth, seamless finish—no tiny gaps between planks.
If you’re picky about details or matching existing floors, unfinished gives you more freedom. It’s what pros use when blending new floors with old ones.
Pros of prefinished hardwood floors
- Speed: They install faster.
- Cleanliness: No sanding, no fumes, less mess.
- Durability: Factory finishes are tough and often come with longer warranties.
- Consistency: Each plank looks uniform, which gives a polished look.
Prefinished hardwood floors are ideal if you want a quick, predictable installation and don’t need custom colors.
Pros of unfinished hardwood floors
- Customization: You get to choose the exact stain and finish.
- Blending: Perfect for matching other hardwood floors in your home.
- Smooth finish: The on-site sanding creates a flawless, flat surface.
This option shines when you want a custom look or when you’re installing floors throughout an entire house.
When to choose prefinished wood flooring
If you’re short on time or renovating just one room, prefinished hardwood flooring is your best bet. It minimizes disruption and keeps things simple. Great for DIYers or those hiring pros who want in and out fast.
When to choose unfinished wood flooring
Go with unfinished when you want a truly custom finish or when you’re dealing with existing hardwood floors that you want to match. It’s more labor-intensive, but the result? Totally worth it if you’re detail-focused.
Visit our hardwood flooring store in Clayton, NC
There’s no wrong choice here. It just depends on your priorities. Do you want speed and simplicity? Go for prefinished hardwood flooring. Want total control and a smooth-as-glass finish? Unfinished is your winner.
Still unsure? Call or stop by 12th & Oak Floor Co. today! Our hardwood flooring store in Clayton, NC, serves Clayton, Raleigh, and Cary, NC.
