Polyurethane flooring is a simple, durable, and low-cost solution installed in businesses and homes throughout Coquitlam. Not only does polyurethane flooring offer a variety of optional performance-enhancing additives, but it also comes in a wide array of colours and finishes, so there is no need to sacrifice aesthetics for function – you can have both.
Read more about polyurethane flooring: Curious about polyurethane flooring in Coquitlam? Here’s what you need to know
How Floor Sheen is Measured
Before you decide on the level of shine you want for your space, it pays to understand how shine is measured and what it means—nothing worse than asking for a matte finish than being underwhelmed by the lack of lustre.
There are standard units of gloss in the flooring industry – flat, matte, satin, semi-gloss, and high-gloss – and a simple tool used to measure it. A gloss metre casts light on a surface at an angle and then measures the amount of light reflected; the more light reflected, the higher the Gloss Units or GU.
Floor shine is measured on a scale between 0 and 100, anything under 10 being the lowest or least reflective and 100 being the glossiest or most reflective.
- Anything less than 10 GU is considered flat (no shine)
- Between 10 to 30 GU is matte to low gloss
- The 30-50 GU range will produce a satin finish
- 50-60 GU is semi-gloss
- High-gloss finishes start at 60-70 GU and can extend up to nearly 100 on a black surface
Choosing the Right Level of Gloss
So what gloss finish is right for your project? Well, that will depend on the space, the look you are hoping to achieve, and the level of maintenance you are comfortable with.
High-gloss polyurethane flooring is popular in commercial spaces and showrooms through Coquitlam thanks to its high-impact appearance. High gloss is the way to go if you want to show off an exotic wood floor or make a statement. However, high-gloss flooring is also notorious for showing every minor imperfection, scratch, and print, so it requires a little more regular cleaning than a lower GU polyurethane floor would.
Matte and satin finishes have been trending over the last few years. Unlike a high gloss finish, matte and satin polyurethane flooring reflect little light and are thus better able to conceal dirt, scratches, and other markings.
A semi-gloss polyurethane finish can be a happy medium between an ultra-reflective high gloss floor and a matte finish. You’ll still have some of the aesthetic benefits of a high gloss finish without all the upkeep.
Can Gloss Levels be Changed Later on?
Does your current space have a polyurethane finished floor that you are not in love with? Or are you looking for a change? The good news is that it’s possible to change the colour, style, or finish on your polyurethane flooring in Coquitlam. There is no problem taking a high gloss floor and making it low gloss or taking a semi-gloss and making it matte for a professional installer. In fact, switching up your polyurethane flooring is a great, inexpensive, low-effort way to give your Coquitlam home or business a high-impact makeover.
The only caveat is knowing whether your current installation is an oil-based or water-based product. The two do not mix well together, so getting it right is essential to your application. When in doubt, seek professional help.
Get a Great Polyurethane Finish by Getting Professional Help
When it comes to results, the best way to get a great polyurethane flooring finish is by getting professional installation help. Not only can a professional offer invaluable advice on the best finish for your space, but they will also ensure a flawless installation that will last.
