Hardwood floors add timeless beauty and value to any home, and Calgary homeowners are increasingly drawn to the convenience and durability of prefinished hardwood options. Like any flooring choice, prefinished hardwood floors have their advantages and disadvantages. Let’s explore how this flooring type might suit your Calgary home.
What are prefinished hardwood floors?
Prefinished hardwood floors are manufactured with stain and finish already applied. This means they arrive at your home ready to install, eliminating the need for on-site finishing. These floors come in a variety of colors, textures, and wood species, making them a popular choice for modern and traditional homes alike.
Pros of prefinished hardwood floors
1. Ease of installation
Since prefinished hardwood floors don’t require sanding, staining, or finishing on-site, they significantly reduce installation time. The process is less messy and disruptive, which is particularly advantageous during Calgary’s colder months when indoor projects are common.
2. Durability
Prefinished hardwood floors are factory-finished with multiple layers of aluminum oxide or polyurethane. These finishes are harder and more consistent than those applied on-site, making prefinished floors highly resistant to scratches and wear—perfect for Calgary homes with active households or pets.
3. Consistent finish
Factory finishing ensures a uniform appearance with no variation in stain or finish. This level of precision might be difficult to achieve with on-site finishing.
4. Variety of styles
Prefinished hardwood floors come in a vast range of styles, wood species, and finishes. Calgary homeowners can choose from rustic, hand-scraped designs to sleek, modern planks, ensuring a perfect match for any décor.
5. Minimal VOCs during installation
Since the finishing is done in a factory, there are no harmful fumes or volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released into your home during installation. This is a bonus for environmentally conscious Calgary homeowners or those with sensitivities.
Cons of prefinished hardwood floors
1. Visible seams
Unlike site-finished hardwood, which is sanded down to create a seamless surface, prefinished floors have beveled edges. These seams can trap dirt and may require more attention when cleaning.
2. Limited customization
Prefinished floors come as-is, meaning you can’t customize the finish, stain, or sheen after installation. If you have a specific vision for your flooring, site-finished hardwood might be a better fit.
3. Higher initial cost
While installation costs are typically lower, the upfront cost of prefinished hardwood is often higher compared to unfinished planks. However, Calgary homeowners may save on overall project expenses due to reduced labor and faster installation.
4. Repair challenges
If a section of your prefinished floor is damaged, it can be challenging to refinish only that area without noticeable differences. In contrast, site-finished floors can often be sanded and refinished seamlessly.
5. Thickness limitations for refinishing
Prefinished floors typically have thinner wear layers than traditional hardwood, which may limit the number of times they can be refinished. This can be a drawback for homeowners planning to stay in their Calgary homes long-term.
Is prefinished hardwood right for your Calgary home?
When choosing prefinished hardwood for your Calgary home, consider your household’s lifestyle and design preferences. Prefinished hardwood offers unparalleled convenience, durability, and aesthetic options, but it may not be the best choice for those who prioritize seamless repairs or custom finishes.
For expert advice and a wide selection of prefinished hardwood floors, visit Westvalley Carpet & Flooring. Our team can help you find the perfect flooring to match your style, budget, and Calgary lifestyle. Contact us today to schedule a consultation or visit our showroom to explore your options!
