Satin Vs Semi Gloss Polyurethane Floors

There are 4 levels of hardwood floor finish sheens.

Satin vs semi gloss polyurethane floors. Polyurethane is an oil based resin finish that is commonly applied to wood flooring and furniture. With that being said satin is by far the most popular look at least in westchester and new york city area. And then at the very opposite end of the spectrum from the gloss finish is the matte finish which is fairly flat and non reflective as finishes go. Polyurethane is applied as topcoat for flooring in order to protect the wood from scratches scuffs and other types of abrasions.

Both satin and semi gloss finishes are used on commercially prefinished. They re both about the same color but you can see that the floors look very different. If you look at these two pictures here the one on left is a semi gloss. A satin finish has a sheen factor of 40 percent to 50 percent.

The semi gloss finish is a bit shinier in an oil based polyurethane than a waterborne one. Semi gloss has a slightly higher luster level than satin. Minwax super fast drying polyurethane for floors. This means more light reflects off your floors.

Minwax ultimate floor finish. When it comes to hardwood floors which type of finish sheen is most in style. The satin will then coat the floor with a light dusting of protection in appearance but the actual result is as equally durable as the gloss and semi gloss. The satin finish comes next with a kind of glow about it but not that light reflective high gloss look.

Minwax ultra fast drying polyurethane for floors. Semi gloss polyurethane is clear shiny and not really recommended for households with pets or small children. The shinier you go the more noticeable scratches dents scuff marks and imperfections even dirt on the floor will be. Selecting a sheen is a matter of personal preference.

A satin finish floor is easier to care for than a high gloss floor and will last longer without needing to be refinished. All polyurethane floor finishes are as durable as each other and they will stand the test of time admirably. Most clear finishes are available in gloss semi gloss and satin sheens. Matte satin semi gloss glossy from least shiny to most shiny.

Satin finishes add some shine while still letting the natural beauty of wood grain come through. The choice of finish for hardwood flooring is a personal preference to a degree although there are factors to consider. The gloss level will affect the appearance of your project but not its durability. The one on the right is a satin.

Then comes semi gloss which is a step down from the ultra shiny sheen of gloss floors. The higher gloss level of semi gloss makes it slightly more durable than a satin finish.