The term "wire-brushed" refers to a finish for hardwood flooring that involves scuffing the wood planks with a hard-bristled wire brush. This technique pulls out and reveals the soft grain from the growth ring of a tree. What remains exposed at the surface of the plank is the heart of the wood (also known as the hardwood).
The term "wire-brushed" refers to a finish for hardwood flooring that involves scuffing the wood planks with a hard-bristled wire brush. This technique pulls out and reveals the soft grain from the growth ring of a tree. What remains exposed at the surface of the plank is the heart of the wood (also known as the hardwood).
The result of the technique is a wood floor with more texture than a normal smooth, glossy finish; the appearance is distressed, gently weathered, and rustic. Generally, a wire-brushed floor resembles the appearance of reclaimed wood or barn wood, which is not only on-trend, but also conceals imperfections and scratches better than a smooth floor.
It's a good compromise between a smooth finish and a super-distressed wood. The purposeful texture is good for areas that have high traffic-- like the kitchen-- that may acquire character marks over time from basic wear and tear.
While the process of wire brushing can be used on many types of hardwood, the results will vary greatly depending on the grain as well as hardness of the material. It works best with wood that has a prominent and significant grain and natural veins. For instance, you wouldn't wire-brush maple (a soft wood) because the process would just make this wood appear scratched rather than reveal an attractive texture. But wire-brushing hickory or oak-- the species of preference for the texturizing treatment-- pulls out the softer fibers from the wood and gives it a natural look.
These kinds of floorings are great for individuals seeking a more authentic and rustic look, but modern interiors can also benefit from having floors with such rich texture.
A wire brush floor is great for someone wanting to balance attractive design and rustic durability. It's a floor you can love for a lifetime.