What sheen should we chose for our hardwood floors?

Choosing the Right Sheen for Your Hardwood Floors in Cleveland, Ohio

One of the most overlooked decisions in a hardwood flooring project is the sheen level — and most homeowners don’t start thinking about it until the project is nearly complete.

At Pasquale Floors, we guide homeowners throughout Cleveland, Pepper Pike, Beachwood, Shaker Heights, and surrounding areas through this decision every day, because the sheen you choose has a major impact on the final look, maintenance, and overall feel of your floors.

There are five main sheen options when finishing hardwood floors:

1. Gloss

2. Semi-Gloss

3. Satin

4. Matte

5. Ultra-Matte

Understanding Each Sheen Level

Gloss (High Gloss)

Traditionally, a very shiny, reflective floor was the standard. Gloss finishes reflect a significant amount of light and create a dramatic, polished look.

However, in today’s market — especially in Cleveland homes — high gloss is rarely used. In our experience over the past 20+ years, we’ve only installed it a handful of times.

Why?

• Shows dust, scratches, and imperfections easily

• Requires more maintenance

• Can feel too “formal” or dated for many homeowners

Semi-Gloss

Semi-gloss is one step down from high gloss and still provides a noticeable shine.

For homeowners who want a clean, reflective look without going full gloss, this is typically the highest sheen we recommend.

Satin (Most Popular Choice)

Satin is by far the most popular sheen level for hardwood floors in Cleveland and surrounding suburbs.

It sits right in the middle — offering a soft reflection of light without appearing overly shiny or too flat.

Why homeowners love satin:

• Balanced, timeless appearance

• Hides dust and minor imperfections better than glossier finishes

• Works well in both traditional and modern homes

If you’re unsure, satin is almost always the safest and most versatile choice.

Matte

Matte finishes have become increasingly popular over the past 5–10 years, especially in more modern or updated homes.

This finish offers a low-sheen, muted look with minimal light reflection.

Ultra-Matte

Ultra-matte takes it even further — offering almost zero sheen.

This is a very modern, natural look that many homeowners in areas like Shaker Heights, Chagrin Falls, and Pepper Pike are starting to request.

One of the most common reactions we hear after applying an ultra-matte finish is:

“Did you even apply the finish?”

Even though the floor is fully protected, it doesn’t have that traditional polyurethane “build” look — giving it a raw, natural appearance.

How to Choose the Right Sheen

When selecting a sheen level for your hardwood floors, consider:

• Lifestyle: Higher gloss = more maintenance

• Lighting: Natural light will amplify shine

• Style: Satin = timeless, Matte/Ultra-Matte = modern

• Traffic: Lower sheens hide wear and tear better

What Does Satin Look Like?

The example in this blog post reflects a satin finish — you’ll notice it catches light nicely without being overly shiny or completely flat. It strikes the perfect balance that most homeowners are looking for.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right sheen can completely change the look and feel of your hardwood floors. It’s one of the final steps in the process, but it has a lasting impact on both appearance and maintenance.

At Pasquale Floors, we help homeowners throughout Cleveland, Ohio and surrounding areas make the right choice based on their home, lifestyle, and vision.

Ready to Start Your Hardwood Flooring Project in Cleveland?

If you're planning to refinish or install hardwood floors in Cleveland, Beachwood, Pepper Pike, Shaker Heights, or nearby areas, we’d love to help guide you through every step — including choosing the perfect sheen.

Give us a call or visit our website to get started.

Pasquale Floors – Cleveland’s Trusted Hardwood Flooring Experts