Flooring
Distressed Flooring
Distressed flooring encompasses various techniques—scraping, denting, staining, and wire-brushing—to create the appearance of aged, worn wood. This intentional "damage" provides character that would normally take decades to develop naturally.
Beyond aesthetics, distressed finishes serve practical purposes in busy households where new, pristine floors would quickly show wear. When floors arrive already looking lived-in, additional wear blends rather than stands out.
Key Characteristics
- ✓Intentionally aged appearance
- ✓Multiple distressing techniques
- ✓Built-in character
- ✓Hides new damage well
- ✓Instant vintage appeal
- ✓Various intensity levels
Types & Variations
Lightly distressed (subtle)
Heavily distressed (rustic)
Skip-sawn (saw marks)
Wormy (insect holes)
Reclaimed look (multiple techniques)
Placement & Usage Tips
Match distressing intensity to room formality—heavy distressing suits casual spaces, light distressing works in transitional settings. Consider furniture style compatibility.
💡 Pro Tip
Distressed floors in active households actually look better over time as real wear blends with artificial aging. This makes distressed flooring particularly practical for families with children and pets.