Few materials can rival hardwood when it comes to boosting a home’s appeal and resale value. Its natural warmth, distinctive grain, and ability to last for decades make it a flooring choice that continues to pay off over time.

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Before you buy, though, there’s a key question to settle: should you go with prefinished or unfinished hardwood? Both are genuine wood with the same lasting beauty, but they take very different paths from purchase to completed floor.

They vary in how they’re installed, how much control you have over the look, how long the project takes, how they’re maintained, and how the finished surface looks.

This guide covers:

• What sets prefinished and unfinished hardwood apart

• The advantages and drawbacks of each

• Which type suits which kind of project

• How to decide what’s right for your home