Matte Finish

A matte finish provides a soft, natural appearance that suits coastal living and contemporary interiors. It reduces glare, hides everyday marks and footprints, and blends seamlessly with light, airy spaces. Matte is an excellent option for family homes, pet-friendly spaces and anyone who prefers a subtle, understated look.

Best for:

  • Coastal and modern homes
  • High-traffic family areas
  • Lower-maintenance cleaning

Satin Finish

Satin is the most popular choice among Gold Coast homeowners. It offers a balanced, elegant sheen that enhances the timber without creating a shiny or reflective surface. Satin highlights the grain beautifully and works with almost any interior style, from Hamptons to traditional to modern.

Best for:

  • Homes wanting a classic, versatile finish
  • Spaces with mixed lighting
  • Those who want warmth and clarity without high shine

Gloss Finish

Gloss delivers a polished, luxurious look and creates strong light reflection. It’s often used in formal rooms or homes wanting a bold, high-end finish. Because it reflects more light, gloss can show dust, scratches and footprints more easily, so it benefits from regular upkeep and is best suited to lower-traffic areas.

Best for:

  • Formal living areas
  • Premium “showpiece” floors
  • Darker timbers that look stunning with extra sheen

Water-Based vs Solvent-Based Coatings

Both coating types offer excellent results, but each brings different benefits.

Water-Based Coatings

  • Fast drying with very low odour
  • Maintain the natural colour of the timber
  • Ideal for families who need quicker turnaround
  • Popular for light-coloured species such as blackbutt

Solvent-Based Coatings

  • Extremely durable and long-lasting
  • Deepen and enrich the timber tone
  • Suitable for high-traffic or rental properties
  • Provide strong surface protection

Which Finish Should You Choose?

Choosing the right finish comes down to your home’s style, how much traffic your floors receive and the look you want to achieve. If you’d like expert advice or help selecting the best finish for your home, get in touch with Tom Brighton Floor Sanding.