Are you trying to pick out the perfect hardwood floor for your home or business, but don’t know the difference between a matte and satin finish? Don’t worry! You are not alone. Many people struggle with this decision because of the many factors that play into which type of finish is best for each space.
In this blog post, we will talk about all the things you need to think about before deciding if matte or satin finish hardwood floors are best for your space. These considerations include visual appeal, comfort underfoot, maintenance requirements, and even resale value.
By the end of this article, you will know enough to make a smart decision about which type of hardwood flooring is best for you.
What Is Matte Finish on Hardwood Floors?
They are good for traditional styles, like farmhouse or country. Some people prefer matte finish hardwood floors because they think it hides imperfections better than other types of finishes.
Matte finish hardwood floors are also strong and don’t need to be refinished as often as other types of floors. [2]
What Is Satin Finish on Hardwood Floors?
This type of finish makes the wood look more glossy, which would be perfect for a modern or contemporary space.
Another good thing about satin finish hardwood floors is that they are more slip-resistant than other types of finishes and they are usually easier to take care of.
What’s the Difference?
The two main differences between matte and satin finish hardwood floors are the way they look and how often you need to clean them. Matte finish is good for traditional styles, like farmhouse or country, while satin finish looks better in a modern or contemporary space.
As far as maintenance goes, matte needs to be refinished less often than satin because it’s stronger and more resistant to wear. However, satin is easier to take care of because it’s more slip-resistant.
Appearance
The main difference between matte and satin finish is how they look. Matte finish hardwood floors have a flat, smooth look that is perfect for traditional styles. Satin finish hardwood floors have a glossy sheen that can make any space look brighter and more modern.
Comfort Underfoot
Another difference between matte and satin finish is comfort underfoot. Matte finish hardwood floors are usually more comfortable to walk on because there is less shine and the wood fibres tend to catch your foot, making it feel like you’re walking on a cushion.
Satin finish hardwood floors create a slippery surface which can be uncomfortable for some people.
Maintenance Requirements
Matte finish hardwood floors are usually easier to maintain than satin finish because they don’t show dirt and dust as easily. Satin finish hardwood floors tend to require more frequent cleaning and polishing in order to keep the glossy sheen looking fresh. [1]
Resale Value
When you want to sell your house, matte finish hardwood floors are better. They fit into any style of home. But satin finish hardwood floors might not be as good because they look too modern.
Durability
Both matte and satin finish hardwood floors are very durable. They can last for decades if they are properly maintained.
Sheen
The amount of shine on the floors is important. Matte finish hardwood floors have a low shine, while satin finish hardwood floors have a higher shine. A high shine makes any space look brighter and more modern.
Feel
The feel of matte finish hardwood floors is usually softer and more comfortable than satin finish. The extra shine on satin finish hardwood floors can make them slick, which some people don’t like.
Best Uses
Matte finish hardwood floors usually look best in traditional homes and rooms that have a lot of foot traffic. If you want to add a modern touch to any space and make it look brighter, then you should choose satin finish hardwood floors.
However, keep in mind that satin floors are not as durable as matte floors in areas with high foot traffic.
Cost
The price of matte and satin finish hardwood floors depend on the type of wood and the quality of the finish. Usually, matte floors are less expensive than satin because they don’t need to be cleaned as much.
How to Clean Matte Finish Hardwood Floors?
Matte finish hardwood floors usually don’t need to be cleaned as often as other types of finishes. The best way to clean matte floors is with a damp mop and mild detergent.
When mopping, use slow and gentle strokes to avoid damaging the finish. Once you’re done, dry the floor immediately with a clean cloth to avoid streaks.
How to Clean Satin Finish Hardwood Floors?
Satin finish hardwood floors need to be cleaned and polished more often than matte floors. The best way to clean satin floors is with a vacuum, then a damp mop with mild detergent, and then dry with a clean cloth.
Once your satin finish hardwood floors are dry, you can use a polish or wax product to make them shine.
How to Keep the Shine on Satin Finish Hardwood Floors?
To keep your satin finish hardwood floors looking nice, you should use a polish or wax every few months. Be sure to follow the instructions on the product and avoid using too much as this can make your floor look greasy.
If you want to protect your satin finish from scratches and wear, use area rugs in high-traffic areas.
Can You Make Matte Finish Hardwood Floors Shiny?
Yes, you can make matte finish hardwood floors shiny. However, it’s important to note that this will change the appearance of your flooring and may require more frequent cleaning and maintenance.
To make your matte floors shine, use a polish or wax product specifically designed for matte finishes. Follow the instructions on the package and test in an inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire floor.
Can You Make Satin Finish Hardwood Floors Matte?
Yes, you can make satin finish hardwood floors matte. This may require stripping and refinishing your floor with a matte finish product. If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, it’s best to hire a professional to do the job right.
Which Is Better: Matte or Satin for Floor Finish?
But both kinds of floors need to be cleaned and taken care of regularly, so before making a decision, do some research to figure out which option is best suited for your home.
FAQ
Is satin or matte finish better?
This depends on your personal preference and the style of your home. Matte finishes are usually better for traditional homes, while satin finishes can make any space look modern.
Does matte or satin finish show scratches more?
Matte finishes tend to show scratches more than satin finishes because they don’t have as much shine. So if you’re looking for a finish that won’t show scratches, opt for a satin finish.
Is matte finish hardwood flooring good?
Matte finish hardwood floors are durable and low-maintenance. They don’t need to be polished as often as other finishes, so they can be a great option for busy households.
Is matte or satin finish easier to clean?
Matte finishes don’t need to be cleaned as often as other finishes, so they can be a great option for busy households. To clean a matte finish floor, use a damp mop and mild detergent. Satin finishes need to be cleaned and polished more often than matte floors, so they may require more maintenance.
Is matte finish good for hardwood floors?
Matte finish hardwood floors are a good option because they are easy to take care of. You don’t need to polish them as much as other finishes. But matte finishes show scratches more than satin finishes because they don’t have as much shine.
Should hardwood floors be shiny or matte?
It is up to you to decide which style of flooring you like best. Matte finishes are usually better for traditional homes, while satin finishes can make any space look modern.
What color hardwood floor is best for resale?
A hardwood floor that is a light color, such as white or tan, is a good choice if you want to sell your home. A light color will make any room look bigger and more inviting.
Darker colors can also be a good option if you want to create a warm feeling in the room. But remember that both light and dark floors need to be cleaned and taken care of regularly.
Is the hardwood floor matte or glossy?
Hardwood floors can be either matte or glossy. Matte finishes are usually better for traditional homes, while satin finishes can make any space look modern.
But both kinds of floors need to be cleaned and taken care of regularly, so before making a decision, do some research to figure out which option is best suited for your home.
Are hardwood floors matte or satin?
Traditional homes usually look better with matte hardwood floors, while satin hardwood floors can make any space look modern. But you need to clean and take care of both kinds of floors regularly, so before making a decision, do some research to figure out which option is best suited for your home.
What is the best way to maintain hardwood floors?
The best way to maintain hardwood floors that have a matte or satin finish is to regularly clean them and take care of them. Before making a decision, do your research. A good tip for cleaning your floor is to use a damp mop and mild detergent. This will help your floor look good for longer.
When should I use matte or satin finish on a hardwood floor?
Before deciding which type of finish to use on your hardwood floors, think about the kind of wood you have and what look you want. A matte finish is often best for traditional homes, while a satin finish can make any space look modern.
Do some research before making your decision so you know what would work best for your home.
How often should I clean a matte finish hardwood floor?
A matte finish hardwood floor needs to be cleaned and taken care of regularly. To clean it, use a damp mop and mild detergent.
Satin finishes need to be cleaned more often than matte floors, so they may require more maintenance. Make sure to do your research before making a decision on the type of finish to use.
How do I protect my matte finish hardwood floor?
To keep your matte finish hardwood floors looking nice, you should clean them regularly and use a mild detergent. You should also put a sealant on the floor every two or three years to help prevent scratches and other damage.
Avoid using any harsh chemicals or abrasive materials on the floor as this can damage the finish. Make sure you know what you are doing before you decide which type of finish to use.
Both matte and satin finishes can make any space look beautiful. You need to decide which style is best for your home. But you need to remember that both types of floors need regular cleaning and maintenance. Do some research so you know how to take care of your hardwood floors. This way, they will look great for years to come.
Does a satin finish hardwood floor require more maintenance than a matte one?
If you want a shiny floor, you have to work harder to take care of it. You have to clean it more and wax it and polish it more often. But if you don’t mind a duller floor, then you don’t have to work as hard. Just use a damp mop with mild soap and that will be enough.
Do I need to seal a matte finish hardwood floor?
It is a good idea to put a seal on your hardwood floors every few years. This will protect the floor and prevent scratches. You can use either an oil-based or water-based sealant. Just make sure to do your research before deciding which type to use.
Are matte or satin hardwood floors easier to clean?
Both matte and satin finish hardwood floors need to be cleaned on a regular basis, but matte finishes are usually easier to clean.
You just need to use a damp mop with mild soap, whereas with satin finishes you may have to wax or polish the floor more often. So if you don’t want to spend a lot of time cleaning, then matte might be the better option for you.
Can I use a steam mop on a matte or satin finish hardwood floor?
You should not use a steam mop on hardwood floors because it can damage the finish and cause the floor to warp over time. The best way to clean your hardwood floors is with a damp mop and mild soap. Make sure you read the manufacturer’s instructions before using any cleaning products on your floor.
Can I install a matte or satin finish on the hardwood floor myself?
You can install a matte or satin finish hardwood floor yourself, but it is not recommended for beginners. If you are experienced in installing floors, then you can do it.
But if you’re not sure what you’re doing, it’s always best to hire a professional. They can make sure your floor is installed correctly and will last for many years.
Which one offers the best value for money?
It all depends on your budget and what you want. A matte finish hardwood floor may not cost as much because it is easy to take care of and does not need waxing or polishing to look good.
But a satin finish can make any space look rich and can last longer. So choose the one that you think is best for your home based on your individual needs.
What are the main differences between matte and satin finishes?
The main difference between matte and satin finishes is how much they shine. Matte finish hardwood floors look dull while satin floors look shiny. Satin finishes need to be cleaned more often than matte floors, so they may require more maintenance. But you get to decide which one you like better.
When it comes to hardwood floor finishes, which one is better?
It all depends on what you want and the look that you are trying to achieve. Matte finish hardwood floors tend to be easier to take care of but don’t give off as much shine.
Satin finish floors offer more shine but require more maintenance. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what you think looks best in your home.
What are the pros and cons of matte and satin finish hardwood floors?
The main pro for matte finish hardwood floors is that they are easy to take care of. They don’t require waxing or polishing and are generally more affordable. On the other hand, satin finish comes with a shinier look but requires more maintenance.
It is also more expensive. So it comes down to personal preference and budget when deciding which finish is best for you.
Which is better for high-traffic areas like the living room or hallway?
For areas in your house that get a lot of traffic, like the living room or hallway, you should use a matte finish. This type of finish is more durable and doesn’t show scratches easily.
It also requires less maintenance, so you don’t have to spend as much time cleaning and polishing the floor. For areas that don’t get as much traffic, like a bedroom or office, satin finishes may be better.
How long does it take to install a matte or satin finish hardwood floor?
The amount of time it takes to install a matte or satin finish hardwood floor will depend on the size and complexity of the project. Generally, it can take anywhere from one to five days for a professional installer to do the job.
Make sure you get several quotes before hiring a contractor so you have an idea of how long the job will take.
How to care for a matte or satin finish on a hardwood floor?
Caring for a matte or satin finish on a hardwood floor is not too hard.
You can use a damp mop with mild soap when needed, but make sure you read the manufacturer’s instructions first.
For matte finishes, you won’t need to wax or polish the floor, while a satin finish may require occasional cleaning and polishing. In either case, avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasives on your floor as these can damage the finish.
What is the best way to maintain a matte or satin finish on a hardwood floor?
The best way to keep your matte or satin finish hardwood floor clean is to vacuum and sweep it regularly. You should also use mild soaps when mopping and avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasives that can damage the finish. Make sure you read all manufacturer instructions for cleaning and care tips before beginning.
For matte finishes, you won’t need to wax or polish the floor, while a satin finish may require occasional cleaning and polishing. Lastly, be sure to apply furniture pads or felt protectors on the legs of furniture to further protect your floors from scratches and wear.
When is it time to refinish a matte or satin finish hardwood floor?
It is best to refinish your hardwood floors when they look old and worn. This usually happens after a few years, depending on how many people use the floor.
It is important to remember that you should never sand down a matte finish because this can damage the floor. If your finish is satin, you can lightly sand and refinish the floor without changing the shine too much.
Make sure you consult a professional if you are unsure how to go about this process. Refinishing your hardwood floor can help restore its original beauty and luster.
Ultimately, deciding when to refinish your hardwood floor will depend on the amount of wear and tear it has seen over time.
Do matte or satin finish hardwood floors show scratches easily?
Matte finish hardwood floors are less likely to show scratches than those with a satin finish. The smoother finish of the matte hides imperfections better, making it ideal for high-traffic areas like the living room or hallway. On the other hand, satin finishes are shinier and more reflective, so they are more likely to show scratches. If you want a floor that looks pristine for longer, then it’s best to opt for a matte finish.
Does a matte or satin finish hardwood floor require more maintenance?
Matte finishes do not need to be cleaned as often as satin finishes. This is because it is a smoother finish and does not get scratched or dirty as easily.
You will still need to vacuum and mop regularly, but you won’t have to do extra waxing or polishing. Satin finishes are slightly shinier and may require more cleaning and occasional polishing to maintain a like-new appearance.
Could you use a matte or satin finish hardwood floor in wet areas?
You should not put matte or satin finishes in rooms where there is a lot of water, like the bathroom or kitchen. Water can seep into the wood and ruin it.
If you want to put hardwood floors in these rooms, choose a waterproof or water-resistant finish instead. This will help protect the wood from moisture damage.
Useful Video: Screening down these hardwood floors with a gloss finish and applying satin finish
Conclusion
When you cannot decide between matte and satin finish hardwood floors, think about the good and bad parts of each option. Matte finishes do not show scratches and spills as much.
Satin finishes have a shiny look that makes rooms look brighter. In the end, it is up to you to decide which one you like better for your home!
References
- https://fromtheforest.com/blogs/fromtheforest/matte-vs-satin-finish-for-hardwood-floors-what-to-choose
- https://weekendbuilds.com/matte-vs-satin-finish-hardwood-floors/