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How Do You Know if Your Floors Are High-Gloss or Semi-Gloss Finished?

There are three basic finishes for floor -- satin, low- or semi-gloss, and high-gloss. The difference between semi- and high-gloss may not be obvious at first glance. Both finishes offer the same level of protection for the floor, but differences exist between them. High-gloss finishes are shiny and will often stand out more, while semi-glosses are more dull. Additionally, the finishes have different abilities when it comes to hiding scratches, scuffs and debris.

Instructions

    • 1

      Look for obvious scratches and scuffs in the floor. High-gloss finishes make scratches and scuffs more readily apparent than semi-gloss finishes. High-gloss finishes also reveal dust and debris on floors more readily than semi-gloss.

    • 2

      Open the curtains or blinds during the day, and pay attention to how much light is reflected off the wood floor. Semi-gloss finishes absorb light, while sunlight will typically cast reflections on a high-gloss finish.

    • 3

      Identify the setting. Many homes have semi-gloss or satin finishes, while commercial spaces are more likely to have high-gloss finished floors.