Hardwood Floor Kitchen Refinishing Service in Northbrook Illinois

Tailored Color Matching for the Perfect Aesthetic

The owners of this Northbrook home, including a former designer, had a specific vision for their kitchen floor. They wanted the hardwood to complement the hallway tiles better by reducing the original red tones and adding more brown. After discussing options and testing various stains, we created a custom stain mix that met their aesthetic goals.

The Custom Stain Mix:

• 40% Bona Jacobean
• 50% Bona Antique Brown
• 10% Natural Stain

This unique blend achieved the rich, warm brown hue the owners wanted, providing a cohesive look throughout the kitchen and adjacent areas. The custom mix was designed to highlight the natural grain of the wood while toning down any red undertones.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Water Popping for Enhanced Color Depth

Before applying the stain, we used the water popping technique, a process that lightly wets the surface of the wood to open its grain. This step allows the stain to penetrate deeper, resulting in a richer and more uniform color. Water popping is especially effective in custom staining projects like this, where depth and richness of color are critical.

2. Applying the Custom Stain

Once the wood was prepared, we applied our custom stain blend. This combination of Bona Jacobean, Bona Antique Brown, and Natural Stain was carefully applied to ensure even coverage and color distribution. The homeowners were closely involved throughout this step to ensure the color met their expectations perfectly.

3. Water-Based Glossy Finish for Durability and Shine

After the stain was fully absorbed, we protected the newly refinished floors with a water-based glossy finish. Known for its durability and eco-friendliness, this type of finish also adds a sleek shine that enhances the overall appearance of the kitchen. Additionally, the water-based formula ensures the floors are safe for the environment while offering long-lasting protection against wear and tear.

Client Satisfaction

The clients, especially with their design background, were thrilled with the final result. They appreciated how the new stain color perfectly complemented the hallway tiles and transformed the kitchen’s overall look. Their satisfaction was a testament to our ability to create custom finishes that meet individual style preferences.