Flooring
Site-Finished Flooring
Site-finished flooring is installed unfinished, then sanded, stained, and sealed on-site after installation. This approach creates seamless floors without visible bevels while allowing complete customization of stain colors and finish sheens.
The process involves significant work: sanding through multiple grits, applying stain (if desired), and multiple coats of finish with drying time between each. The result is a continuous, custom floor that integrates perfectly with the home's specific aesthetic.
Key Characteristics
- ✓On-site sanding and finishing
- ✓Seamless appearance
- ✓Custom color matching
- ✓Longer installation time
- ✓Dust and fumes during process
- ✓Ultimate customization
Types & Variations
Oil-based polyurethane (amber tone)
Water-based polyurethane (clear)
Hardwax oil (natural look)
Penetrating oil (matte)
Custom stain matching
Works Well With These Styles
Placement & Usage Tips
Plan for the home to be unoccupied during sanding and finishing—the process takes 3-5 days minimum. Ensure proper ventilation. Cure times vary by finish type.
💡 Pro Tip
For the most seamless appearance on site-finished floors, skip stain and use finish only (oil-based for slight warmth, water-based for natural color). This eliminates stain overlap marks at board edges.
Related Terms
Prefinished Flooring
Flooring that arrives from the factory already sanded, stained, and sealed, ready for installation without on-site finishing.
Hardwood Flooring
Solid wood planks milled from single pieces of timber, prized for natural beauty, durability, and the ability to be refinished multiple times.