If you’re considering restoring your wooden floors, this gentle guide walks you through the options — calmly and clearly.
We’ll walk you through what’s involved — clearly and calmly.
Hardwood floors have a quiet dignity. Whether you’ve cared for yours for decades or inherited them through a move or renovation, they deserve thoughtful treatment — not just a quick sand and varnish.
For many of our Newmarket clients — especially those in peaceful homes in villages like Cheveley, Exning or Burwell — the most common question we hear is:
“What kind of finish is best for my floor?”
It’s a good question. And it doesn’t come with a one-size-fits-all answer.
Let’s walk through your options in plain English so you can feel confident in your next steps.
What Do We Mean by ‘Finish’?
Once a wood floor has been sanded, it needs protection — something that seals the surface and preserves the beauty and structure of the timber underneath.
This top layer is called the finish, and the one you choose will affect:
- How the floor looks (shine, depth, colour)
- How it feels underfoot (smooth, natural, silky, or glossed)
- How easy it is to clean or touch up
- How often it needs maintenance
Your Three Main Options (And When They Work Best)
- Hardwax Oil (Popular for Elegant Older Homes)
A natural-looking, breathable finish that enhances the grain and warmth of the wood. It gives a soft sheen — not too glossy, not too flat.
Good to know:
- Excellent for homes with underfloor heating
- Easy to maintain and recoat in sections if needed
- Doesn’t peel or flake over time
- Offers a more traditional, heritage feel
You might choose this if:
You love the natural feel of wood, want something forgiving to touch up, and prefer a slightly matte, mellow look.
- Lacquer (Also Called Varnish – Ideal for High Traffic)
A strong, protective finish that sits on top of the wood like a clear shield. Often used in hallways, dining areas, or flats with lots of footfall.
Good to know:
- Comes in matt, satin, or gloss levels
- Very durable against scuffs and scratches
- Requires full re-sanding if it ever needs repair
- More of a ‘polished’ look
You might choose this if:
You want long-term durability with less regular maintenance, and like the look of a cleaner, slightly shinier floor.
- Natural Oils (For the Traditionalist)
These sink deep into the wood and enhance its tone and grain without forming a visible layer on top. A more hands-on option.
Good to know:
- Requires more frequent reapplication
- Deeply enhances colour and character of wood
- Better suited to lower-traffic areas or second homes
You might choose this if:
You love older finishes, don’t mind a bit of upkeep, and want to preserve a very natural, antique feel.
Which Is “Best”? It Depends On Your Home
There’s no wrong answer — only what suits your space, lifestyle, and how much ongoing care you’d like to give your floor.
Here’s how we help our Newmarket clients choose:
| Floor Use | Best Finish Type |
| Light-use rooms (bedrooms, studies) | Natural oil or hardwax oil |
| High-use rooms (kitchens, hallways) | Lacquer (satin or matt) |
| Homes with pets | Hardwax oil (easy to patch) |
| Historic properties | Hardwax oil or traditional oil |
| Flats with shared entrances | Lacquer for long-term resilience |
A Local Example: Cheveley Living Room Restore
Mr & Mrs K in Cheveley called us after noticing their oak living room floor had dulled with age. The boards were sound, but the surface had faded, and minor scuffs had built up over time.
They didn’t want anything too shiny — just something to bring back the warmth and protect it for years ahead. After talking through their options, they chose a premium hardwax oil in a neutral tone.
Three weeks later, they called to say:
“It feels like a different room. Warmer underfoot, easier to clean — and somehow, calmer.”
Not Sure What Your Floor Needs? Let’s Talk It Through
Our floor restoration service in Newmarket isn’t just about sanding. It’s about helping you choose a finish that matches your space, your style — and your life.
We take the time to explain each option, show you real samples, and walk you through what care might look like down the line.
The Best Finish Is the One That Lasts — and Suits You
There’s beauty in a floor that reflects the home it lives in. The best finish is the one you’ll still love in five years — not just on day one.
When you’re ready, we’re here — to help you bring out the best in your hardwood floors, and keep them feeling right for your space.
