Flooring Finishes That Change Everything

Color and material matter, but the finish of your flooring can make just as big of an impact. It affects how a space looks, feels, and functions—from light reflection to maintenance needs.

Here’s how different finishes can help you shape the right mood and style for your space.

1. Matte Finishes: Soft, Subtle, and Natural

Matte floors offer a muted elegance that’s perfect for modern or Scandinavian interiors. With little to no shine, they absorb light rather than reflect it, helping rooms feel warmer and more grounded.

Benefits of matte flooring:

• Hides scratches, smudges, and pet prints better
  

• Adds natural-looking texture
  

• Great for high-traffic or pet-friendly homes
  
  

🔗 Check out Thomas House Plus Matte Series for a soft matte look with serious durability.

2. Glossy Finishes: Sleek, Bright, and Bold

Glossy floors bounce light around a room, making it feel brighter and more open. They’re often found in formal spaces or homes that lean toward luxe or contemporary design.

Glossy pros:

• Amplifies natural and artificial light
  

• Makes smaller rooms feel larger
  

• Polished and upscale appearance
  
  

🔗 Check out Thomas House Plus Series for a glossy surface with exceptional durability and scratch resistance.

3. Semi-Gloss and Satin Finishes: The Best of Both Worlds

If you can’t decide between matte and gloss, semi-gloss or satin finishes might be your sweet spot. These floors reflect some light while maintaining a soft texture underfoot - great for family homes, kitchens, or open-concept spaces.

Looking for something that strikes a balance? Our Niobe Waterproof Laminate Flooring blends elegance and practicality with a versatile, low-luster finish.

4. Textured Finishes: Handscraped, Embossed, and Wire-Brushed

Sometimes, it’s not about shine at all—it’s about feel. Textured flooring mimics the natural grooves and grain of real wood, offering a tactile, character-rich experience.

Best for:

• Rustic farmhouse aesthetics
  

• Hiding wear over time

🔗 Check our artisan handcrafted Traditional Engineered Hardwood Collection.

How to Choose the Right Finish

• Room size: Gloss brightens small rooms; matte calms larger ones.
  

• Traffic level: Matte and textured finishes are better at hiding wear.
  

• Style preference: Gloss = modern/luxury. Matte = natural/minimal.
  

• Maintenance: Matte is more forgiving; gloss requires more frequent cleaning.
  

Still not sure? Use our Advance Room Square Footage Calculator to plan your project and get matched with the right product.

Let’s Find the Floor That Feels Right

At McMillan Floors, we don’t just sell flooring—we help you create the space you’ve always imagined. Whether you’re designing a cozy bedroom or a sleek commercial office, we have a finish that fits your vibe and lifestyle.

🔗 Contact Us to talk with a flooring expert or visit our flooring collections to explore options for every space.