Hardwood is one of the most popular and versatile flooring options available. It can be installed to create a warm and inviting atmosphere in a room or to give a smooth, contemporary feel to a space.
It’s a durable and long-lasting option for your home, especially if it’s installed in high-traffic areas. Depending on the species of wood you choose, it can also be resistant to scuffs and scratches.
Aside from the durability of hardwood floors, you can get a wide variety of designs and textures to complement your home’s style. From rift sawn oak to distressed and rustic wood floors, there are many options that will work with your aesthetic preferences.
When choosing a hardwood floor, you’ll want to consider how much traffic the room will get and what the overall design scheme is like. You’ll also want to check the Janka hardness scale to see how well a certain type of wood can handle wear and tear.
The harder the wood, the higher its Janka rating. A higher number means the wood is more durable and better able to withstand dents, scratches and other damage.
Maple: This hardwood ranks 1450 on the Janka scale and works well for most rooms. Its light hues of cream, tan and beige are a welcome alternative to darker shades of brown or black. It has a fine grain pattern with occasional dark streaks or specks that add visual interest to the wood.
Cherry: Another prized hardwood, cherry ranks 950 on the Janka scale and is a great choice for low-traffic areas. Its warm brown tones and beautiful grain pattern can make it look stunning in formal living and dining rooms, but its softness makes it best for smaller spaces.
Natural stains are becoming more and more popular because they blend well with so many different colors and design styles. They can even be used to bridge color in an entire room, which helps prevent a client from having to go through the trouble of selecting multiple colors and finishes.
A hardwood floor is a smart investment for your home. It looks great, lasts for years and increases the value of your home when you sell it.
In addition, hardwood floors are a healthier choice than carpet because they have less fibers. This minimizes the accumulation of dust, pollen, and animal dander that can cause respiratory irritation. It also reduces the amount of allergens that are released into the air when you walk on it.
Moreover, hardwood floors are very low maintenance and easy to keep clean. Routine sweeping and vacuuming will help to remove most of the dirt, debris, and grit that gets accumulated over time.
For homeowners who are considering a new floor, it is a good idea to consult an expert who will be able to explain the benefits of hardwood floors and advise you on which type is right for your home. This will help you to make the best decision for your family and your home.