Satin Vs Semi Gloss Polyurethane Floors

Semi gloss polyurethane is clear shiny and not really recommended for households with pets or small children.

Satin vs semi gloss polyurethane floors. Choosing which finish to use is really a matter of personal preference in color and transparency and the degree of durability your floors and furnishings require. Available in gloss semi gloss and satin. 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. The luster of a semi gloss finish is between a satin and high gloss finish.

It has a medium sheen that reflects more light than a satin finish. When it comes to hardwood floors which type of finish sheen is most in style. All polyurethane floor finishes are as durable as each other and they will stand the test of time admirably. This means more light reflects off your floors.

Cabinets floors furniture and trim such as wainscot where abrasion resistance and durability are important. This gives a more formal feel that really highlights the beauty of hardwood. The satin finish comes next with a kind of glow about it but not that light reflective high gloss look. Then comes semi gloss which is a step down from the ultra shiny sheen of gloss floors.

A satin finish floor is easier to care for than a high gloss floor and will last longer without needing to be refinished. Semi gloss has a slightly higher luster level than satin. With that being said satin is by far the most popular look at least in westchester and new york city area. This is the level of finish applied to most prefinished flooring.

They re both about the same color but you can see that the floors look very different. Satin and semigloss polyurethane finishes give wood surfaces shine and protection. The higher gloss level of semi gloss makes it slightly more durable than a satin finish. A satin finish has a sheen factor of 40 percent to 50 percent.

If you look at these two pictures here the one on left is a semi gloss. Matte satin semi gloss glossy from least shiny to most shiny. Scratches imperfections and dust are more readily. There are 4 levels of hardwood floor finish sheens.

The semi gloss finish is a bit shinier in an oil based polyurethane than a waterborne one. 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. This versatile all around poly provides good protection on a variety of wood surfaces. The one on the right is a satin.

Natural bristle brush or a can of aerosol spray.