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Internal Timber Finishes
Timber finishes provide a final layer in influencing the way the timber looks. Finishes for internal uses can be classified as clear polyurethanes, oils and stains.

Polyurethanes create a clear film over the timber in satin, semi gloss and gloss sheen levels. Lower levels of sheen (satin) help hide imperfections in the flatness of large areas such as floor boards. In contrast high gloss has the opposite effect due to increased reflectivity. Even so it allows easier cleaning and there is less likelihood of mould growth caused by the condensation of steam, fats and oils which occur in kitchens and wet areas. All gloss levels can be formulated to have anti-yellowing agents to prevent the dis-colouring brought about by long term exposure to ultraviolet light (Note: only light coloured timber species are noticeably affected). Clear finishes can also be formulated to provide various levels of impact resistance and therefore some are more applicable than others where high traffic usage is involved (e.g. floors).

Oils differ from clear finishes as they soak into the timber and therefore loose the features associated with a protective film. They also tend to create a different appearance by looking more natural and creating a flat lustre.

Stains are similar to oils in the way they soak into the timber and provide a relatively flat, unsealed appearance. Perhaps the main difference is that stains have a colouring agent that aims to tint the natural timber to provide an altered appearance. It is also possible to use stains in conjunction with clear finishes where the latter is used to provide gloss and a protective film over the stain.