Hardwood flooring is one of the oldest types of floor coverings. It’s natural, durable, and renewable. Plus, it can add warmth to your home and increase its value.
Choosing a wood type is important, because it affects the color, durability, and maintenance of your floors. A good rule of thumb is to choose something that will look best in your home, while still being practical. To find the perfect hardwood, you may want to ask a professional about the different options.
There are dozens of species of wood to choose from. The most common are red and white oak, hickory, pine, and maple. You can find a wide range of colors and finishes for each. Oak is a sturdy, affordable option that is easy to work with. This is one of the most popular hardwood flooring options in the U.S. Unlike some other woods, oak won’t expand or contract easily.
Wood floors are a great way to make a great first impression. They’re durable and long-lasting, and you can install them on any level of your house. But you need to keep in mind that they are also susceptible to damage. In addition to protecting the surface from water, you need to clean them regularly with a dust mop or vacuum.
One of the more exciting aspects of wood floors is that they can be refinished. Refinishing is relatively inexpensive and enables you to make drastic changes to your home. However, it’s crucial that you use the right materials and tools. If you don’t follow the instructions correctly, you may end up with a mess.
For a more affordable option, you can opt for reclaimed hardwood flooring. These are often found at salvage yards and are a better option than buying new. Although they’re cheaper, you’ll likely have to deal with scratches and signs of wear.
You can also choose an engineered wood floor. This type of floor is made of thin plies of wood that mimic the look of hardwood. Engineered floors are more expensive than their solid counterparts, but they have the advantage of being refinished multiple times. Also, they can be sanded and refinished several times.
Hardwood floors are available in a wide variety of sizes and styles. They can be cut into planks, tiles, or tongue-and-groove. Each of these types has its own unique appeal, but choosing the right one for your home is a process that takes time and attention to detail.
Identifying the best hardwood for your home is a matter of choosing the best material and the right finish. You can also choose a wood species that’s easy to work with and whose color and grain will compliment your decor.
Another thing to consider is the design of your room. Whether you’re building a new home or remodeling an existing one, you’ll want to choose a style that will compliment your lifestyle and budget. Besides being aesthetically pleasing, hardwood flooring also has a built-in strength that makes it resistant to wear and tear.
