How Is Flooring Luster (Sheen) Measured?
Flooring luster, or “sheen,” refers to how much light a surface reflects at a specific angle. This is measured using a gloss meter, a device that calculates the amount of light reflected off the flooring when illuminated at a standard angle. For all of your hardwood flooring needs contact Walk on Wood Professional Flooring located in Rochester, Minnesota. Whether it is new flooring or refinishing your existing floors they are your experts.
The results are plotted on a sheen scale, ranging from:
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Matte – the least reflective, with a flat appearance,
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to High Gloss – the most reflective, shiny, and lustrous finish.
Will Polyurethane Change the Color of Hardwood Floors?
Yes—but it depends on the type of polyurethane used:
Oil-Based Polyurethane
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Has a natural amber or yellow tint.
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Over time, it deepens the color of wood, giving it a warm, golden tone.
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May negatively impact light-colored or gray-washed floors, making them look yellow or muddy.
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Especially affects light woods like maple, often turning it a warm yellow.
Water-Based Polyurethane
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Dries clear with little or no color change.
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Ideal for whitewashed, gray, or natural maple floors where you want to maintain the original tone.
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Preferred for modern, clean aesthetics.
Sheen Levels: What’s the Difference?
While all sheens offer the same durability (within the same polyurethane type), they differ in appearance and maintenance.
Matte Finish
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Very low sheen (almost no light reflection).
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Dull appearance; hides scratches and dust best.
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Popular for modern, low-maintenance homes.
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Some may find it too flat in appearance.
Satin Finish
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Medium sheen, offering a soft, low-luster glow.
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The most popular choice today.
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Hides scratches and imperfections well.
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Easy to clean, with a balanced look between matte and gloss.
Semi-Gloss Finish
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Higher shine, showing more light reflection.
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Highlights wood grain more than satin.
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Shows more scratches, pet hair, and dust than satin or matte.
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Requires more upkeep.
High-Gloss Finish
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Extremely shiny and reflective.
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Best used for showcase floors, exotic woods, or accent designs.
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Least forgiving—highlights every scratch, scuff, or speck of dust.
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Not ideal for high-traffic areas or homes with kids/pets.
Durability: Does Sheen Level Matter?
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No, sheen does not determine durability.
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An oil-based matte finish is just as durable as an oil-based gloss finish.
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The same applies to water-based products.
What does affect durability?
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Oil-Based Polyurethane: More durable, longer-lasting, better for high-traffic areas.
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Water-Based Polyurethane: Less durable, but dries faster and emits fewer VOCs (volatile organic compounds).
Can You Change the Sheen Later?
Yes, you can change the sheen level with a screen and recoat—but only under specific conditions:
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To switch from semi-gloss to satin (or vice versa), you must use the same base (oil or water).
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Do NOT mix oil and water finishes directly.
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If switching bases (oil ➝ water or vice versa), wait at least 6 months or fully sand down the floor before recoating.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right polyurethane and sheen for your hardwood floors affects both the look and long-term performance. While oil-based finishes offer warmth and durability, water-based finishes help preserve natural tones and comply with modern VOC standards. For all of your hardwood flooring needs contact Walk on Wood Professional Flooring located in Rochester, Minnesota. Whether it is new flooring or refinishing your existing floors they are your experts. Call Today!!!
