Unfinished Hardwood Flooring

Unfinished hardwood flooring is real wood installed in its raw state, then sanded, stained (optional), and sealed on-site. This “site-finished” process lets you customize the final color and sheen for a truly tailored look.

It depends on your priorities. Unfinished hardwood offers maximum customization and a seamless, site-finished appearance. Prefinished hardwood is faster to install and ready to walk on sooner. The best choice comes down to timeline, budget, and the look you want.

Most projects take several days once installation is complete, since sanding, staining (if used), and multiple coats of finish require drying and cure time. The exact timeline varies based on finish type, humidity, and the size of the job.

Sometimes, but it can be disruptive. Sanding creates dust, and finishes can have odors and off-gassing. Many homeowners choose to stay elsewhere during the finishing phase, especially with oil-based products, pets, or sensitivities.

Select & Better is a cleaner, more uniform look with fewer natural markings and less color variation. #1 and #2 Common grades have more visible character—like variation, mineral streaks, and occasional knots—creating a more rustic, natural appearance.

Many unfinished hardwood products are offered in popular widths such as 2 1/4", 3 1/4", and 5" wide plank. Narrower planks feel more traditional, while wider planks create a more open, modern look.

Wider planks can be more sensitive to seasonal expansion and contraction because they span more wood across the width. Proper acclimation, correct installation methods, and maintaining stable indoor humidity help minimize movement.

The “best” finish depends on your goals. Water-based polyurethane typically dries faster and stays clearer, while oil-based polyurethane can add warmth and longer working time. Your installer can recommend the right system based on traffic, sheen preference, and timeline.

Matte and satin are popular for a natural look and can help hide small scratches and dust. Semi-gloss is brighter and more reflective but may show wear more easily. Choose based on your style, lighting, and maintenance expectations.

Yes. Red oak often shows stronger grain and can pull warmer/redder tones, while white oak tends to have a more neutral-to-golden base and can work especially well with many modern stain colors. Always test stain samples on the exact wood you’re installing.

Pricing varies by species, grade, width, and availability, plus installation and finishing. For the most accurate total, consider both material cost and on-site finishing steps (sanding, stain if used, and multiple finish coats).

Yes. Wood should acclimate to the home’s normal living conditions before installation to help reduce expansion/contraction issues later. Acclimation time varies by climate, jobsite conditions, and product—your installer should follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.