Textures, Colours & Finishes
Understanding how surface treatments change the appearance and feel of real wood flooring.
From smooth, contemporary oak to deeply brushed and characterful finishes, the texture, colour and protective coating of a wood floor all influence its final appearance.
This guide explains the most common options, how they differ and what to consider when choosing a floor for your home.
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Texture describes the physical surface of a timber board. Some floors are sanded smooth, while others are mechanically brushed or worked to emphasise the natural grain.
The surface texture affects how the floor feels underfoot, how it catches the light and how visible its natural grain and markings appear.
Wood flooring textures
Smooth
A flat, refined surface with little deliberate texture. Often chosen for a clean, contemporary appearance.
Brushed
The softer surface fibres are brushed away to emphasise the harder grain structure. This creates a tactile surface and makes the natural grain more pronounced.
Hand-scraped
Boards are worked to create a deliberately uneven, aged or handcrafted appearance. This was a traditional removal method before the arival of modern machines.
Distressed / Aged
A decorative treatment designed to give timber a weathered or lived-in appearance. It may include worn-looking edges, marks or varied surface texture.
Wood flooring comes in a wide range of shades, from pale natural oak to warm golden tones and deeper brown or charcoal finishes.
The final colour depends on the timber species, its natural variation and any colouring or surface treatments applied during manufacture or finishing.
Wood flooring colours
Natural
A finish intended to retain or closely resemble the wood’s natural colour. The exact shade still depends on the coating and species.
Lightened
White pigments or pale treatments reduce the warmth of some timbers and create a lighter, more contemporary look. Grain remains visible to varying degrees.
Smoked Oak
A treatment commonly used on oak to darken or alter its colour through a reaction with natural tannins.
Stained
Colouring agents are applied to change the timber’s appearance, ranging from subtle warm tones to dark browns and greys.
The finish you choose will not only affect the look of your floor, but also how it feels, how it performs and the level of maintenance required. the main options for wood flooring are lacquer, hardwax oil and natural oil, each with its own benefits.
Protective finishes
Lacquered
Lacquer provides a durable, hard-wearing surface with a range of sheens from ultra matt to high gloss. It offers excellent protection and is easy to clean, making it a popular choice for busy homes and commercial spaces.
Hardwax oil
Hardwax oil penetrates the timber and provides a natural, matte finish with good protection. It enhances the natural look and feel of the wood while offering a durable, easy to maintain surface.
Oiled
Oil soaks into the timer, enhancing its natural colour and grain. It provides a subtle, natural finish with a warm, rich appearance. Oiled floors may require periodic maintenance but are easy to spot repair.
| Feature | Lacquered | Hardwax Oil | Oiled |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Available in matt, satin and gloss | Natural, matt finish | Natural, matt finish |
| Durability | Very high | High | Moderate |
| Feel | Smooth, sealed surface | Natural feel | Natural feel |
| Maintenance | Low | Moderate | Higher (periodic oiling) |
| Repair | More difficult | Easy spot repairs | Easy spot repairs |
| Water resistance | High | Good | Moderate |
| Best for | Busy homes, commercial spaces | Homes wanting a natural look with good protection | Traditional and rustic interiors |
With the right care and maintenance, a wood floor can last for many years. Regular cleaning, the right products and avoid excessive moisture will help keep it looking its best.
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Caring for your wood floor
Need help choosing your wood floor?
If you’re unsure which type of wood flooring is right for your home or project, we’re here to help. Get in touch for independent advice, or browse our wood flooring collections to see what's available.