Author, Written by: P. Hirani (Wood flooring Expert)
When it comes to choosing new flooring, most people focus on the material—oak, vinyl, laminate, or engineered wood. But just as important (and often overlooked) is the finish. The right flooring finish doesn’t just influence how your floors look—it also impacts how they feel underfoot, how they age, and how easy they are to maintain.
Whether you live in a busy family home, a sleek city apartment, or a quiet countryside cottage, your lifestyle plays a big role in what finish will work best. Here’s a simple breakdown to help you decide.
Matt Finish – Understated and Low Maintenance
If your home is high-traffic—think kids running around, dogs lounging everywhere, and guests popping in frequently—matt floors are your friend.
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Why choose matt? They’re excellent at hiding scratches, footprints, and dust.
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Ideal for: Busy households, rustic or natural interiors, and anyone who doesn’t want to mop every other day.
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Look and feel: Matt finishes have a soft, velvety appearance and feel warm and grounded.
Matt is especially popular in modern Scandinavian-style spaces and homes aiming for a more natural, lived-in look.
Satin or Semi-Gloss Finish – The Middle Ground
Not too shiny, not too flat—a satin finish strikes a nice balance between beauty and practicality.
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Why choose satin? It offers a slight sheen that catches light without showing every smudge.
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Ideal for: Most family homes, open-plan spaces, or anyone looking for a versatile, timeless finish.
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Look and feel: Smooth and subtly reflective without feeling overly polished.
Satin is a go-to choice for oak floors and works well in everything from traditional homes to contemporary interiors.
Glossy Finish – Elegant and Eye-Catching
Want a touch of glamour underfoot? A high-gloss finish adds a sleek, luxurious edge to your flooring—but it does require a little more upkeep.
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Why choose gloss? It highlights the natural grain of wood beautifully and reflects a lot of light.
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Ideal for: Formal living rooms, smaller spaces that need brightening, or homes where design takes centre stage.
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Look and feel: Shiny, smooth, and polished—ideal for creating a dramatic or upscale atmosphere.
Keep in mind: glossy finishes tend to show scratches and dirt more easily, so they’re best suited for lower-traffic areas or households without pets.
Textured or Brushed Finish – For a Natural, Durable Feel
If you love the charm of reclaimed wood or farmhouse floors, a brushed or textured finish might be the perfect fit.
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Why choose texture? It masks wear and tear exceptionally well and adds visual interest.
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Ideal for: Rustic styles, family homes, or homes with pets.
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Look and feel: Slightly weathered, with visible grain and natural imperfections.
This finish works great with engineered wood or luxury vinyl plank (LVP) designed to mimic natural materials.
Oiled Finish – Soft Sheen with a Natural Touch
Unlike surface coatings, oiled finishes soak into the wood and highlight its natural beauty.
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Why choose oiled floors? They’re easy to spot-repair and develop a beautiful patina over time.
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Ideal for: Traditional homes or spaces where you want floors to age gracefully.
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Look and feel: Soft, subtle sheen with a very organic texture.
You’ll need to re-oil floors occasionally, so it’s best for homeowners who don’t mind a bit of maintenance.
Choosing Based on Your Lifestyle
Still not sure what suits you? Here’s a quick guide:
Bringing It All Together
The perfect flooring finish balances your home’s aesthetic with your daily needs. Whether you want something polished and striking or warm and practical, there's a finish that fits both your style and your lifestyle.
Take your time, order samples, and always consider lighting, foot traffic, and cleaning habits before making a final choice. You’ll be living with your floors for years—it’s worth getting it right!
About Author:
Peter H. is a flooring product expert who knows all about different types of flooring materials. He shares his knowledge in blogs to help readers make the best choices for their spaces.