Hardwood floors are a popular, attractive, and versatile flooring option that can be installed in nearly every room in your home. But with so many different types of hardwood floors and even wood look-alikes, you need to know what to look in order to get the right type of hardwood floor for your rooms.
Here are a few questions to help you make the right decision:
Should I get solid or engineered hardwood flooring?
Solid hardwood floors are made from the same type of timber, 100%. The come in different thicknesses, and can be sanded and refinished multiple times to maintain their new look. However, these planks are prone to water damage, and are only recommended for use above ground in any room except bathrooms.
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Hardwood floors, on the other hand, are made from different layers of wood, which may not necessarily be from the same species. Their construction allows for minimal expansion and contraction during fluctuations in temperature and humidity. They can be installed in any room above or below ground, including basements and slabs, if you want a hardwood floor.
What is the best wood species for your room?
Each type of wood has a distinct look, so you may consider the species to suit your personal style and preference. Light woods such as ash and maple can make your space appear open and airy, while dark woods like mahogany and walnut give your rooms a more sophisticated and elegant look. You can also choose medium woods like oak and hickory to give your rooms a warm and cozy feel.
Besides the look of the wood, you should also consider the application of the floor. Each wood species has a unique Janka Scale rating, which indicates its hardness and durability. This is a good measure of how your floor will dent, scratch, or show other kinds of wear. Keep in mind that the more stylish and durable the wood is, the more expensive it will be.
Keep your floor looking new
Hardwood floors can make any room look warm and elegant. To ensure the beauty and longevity of your floor, you should clean it regularly with a dust mop or vacuum to remove loose dirt and grit; mop up any spills and puddles immediately as water can damage your floor; and place rugs at all entrances to reduce dirt and cleaning frequency as much as possible.
